What Should You Look for During a Test Drive?

You’re Shopping for a Car and Find the One…Now What?

Do you think you found the perfect ride when shopping for your next vehicle? Don’t consider the search done yet, as you’ll first want to take the car on a test drive to help ensure you’ve truly found the perfect match. But what should you check during this special time with the ride? No need to worry, as we’ll walk you through the basics today. Also, stop by Gilroy Chevrolet near San Jose, CA, and test drive your favorite Chevy models.

Before You Step In…The Real Test Starts Outside

It’s exciting to get behind the wheel and take your potential new vehicle for a spin—but before you start the drive, give the car a good look from the outside. For starters, look at the cosmetic exterior details—you’ll want to check for everything like chips and scratches along with any leaks that seem odd—and don’t be shy to ask questions if you notice anything that appears unusual.

Next, test out all the doors and make sure they open easily and that you and your potential passengers can enter with ease. For instance, can you and your family easily enter a truck or SUV that’s higher than average off the ground or will you need a model with running boards? Next, you’ll also want to look at the trunk and make sure you have the space you need—in other words, will your usual grocery runs still work? If you golf, will your clubs still fit?

Time to Drive: Get Behind the Wheel and Take Mental Notes

Now it’s time for the fun part—the actual test drive. Step inside, get comfortable (test out the front seat positions and movements while you’re at it), and get that engine purring. Even now the real test begins—does everything sound normal or do you hear strange idling noises?

Next, it’s time to test out the drive—keep in mind this is also the perfect chance to find out if a manual transmission in a model like a Camaro is right for you (and make sure you can effortlessly shift into gear without a fight). Feel free to cruise at all speeds—start off at a parking lot pace and progressively make your way to the highway—does everything feel right and smooth? While you’re in the parking lot remember to try a U-turn to make sure the turning radius is built for your needs. Also, pop on the radio and play around with the infotainment system when you’re able to come to a stop—does everything sound right and do you have the features you need, like a built-in navigation system? This is also the perfect chance to play around with the climate systems to help ensure the heating and air work to your standards and that the heated and ventilated systems in the seat function as planned.

Your Next Car Awaits: Take a Test Drive in Gilroy

Are you ready to find your next dream vehicle? Visit Gilroy Chevrolet, your local Chevrolet dealer near Salinas, CA, and test drive the Chevy models from our showroom floor that stand out to you. Our team is also here to assist you in any way possible, including answering your questions about how to test drive a car—and that’s only the start of how we can step up for you.