Car shopping isn’t usually something that people look forward to. We get it - if you choose the wrong dealership, it can be a stressful experience. You’ve already done a ton of leg work researching cars and reading reviews. The last thing you want to do is MORE work getting behind the wheel for a test drive, right? Especially when there are dealers now who will let you shop entirely online and then deliver the car to your house.
Don’t skip your test drive - here’s why
However, here at our N Charlotte Toyota dealership, we don’t recommend this approach. There are very solid reasons why you should take a test drive in the car you want to buy, and we’re here to explain them. Check it out!
Reason #1: You can do a bumper-to-bumper inspection and look for issues.
Seeing the car online is one thing, but seeing it in person is another. Inspecting the car in person allows you to see it all up close and personal. You can check the exterior for paint damage, accident damage or repairs, dings and dents, and burnt out bulbs. You can check the tires and suspension, and you can pop the hood to look for leaks or worn-out parts. When you climb inside the interior, you can scope it for any damage to the upholstery or carpet and make sure everything smells fresh and clean. You can also test all of the knobs and buttons and make sure things like the audio system, A/C, heater, and defroster all work.
Reason #2: You can ensure the car is comfortable.
What if you buy the car, climb into the driver’s seat, and hate it? A test drive allows you to do that before you sign the dotted line. You can ensure you’re comfortable and also that the interior of the car is ergonomically laid out the way you need it to be. You can check that everything you need to reach is within reach and that you don’t have any bad blind spots. You can also check out the backseat to ensure it’s roomy enough for your passengers and if need be, suitable for car seats or booster seats.
Reason #3: You can see how the car handles.
The most important part of your test drive is checking that you like how the N Charlotte Toyota you’re considering handles. What if the acceleration isn’t where you need it to be? What about braking - does it have the crisp braking that you need for safety’s sake? How does it feel when you take turns? Does the car ride smoothly and comfortably at every speed? What about backing up - is it easy to reverse the car? And don’t forget to test out parking, both regular and parallel.
Reason #4: You can ask questions and view other inventory in person.
So let's say worse case scenario - you get behind the wheel of the N Charlotte Toyota you think you want and you don't like it. Good news! You're already on the lot with tons of other options AND a product specialist to show you options that are similar to the car you thought about buying. Plus, if you have any questions about the car you're considering, our skills sales specialists can give you all the answers you need and then some.
Get behind the wheel today at Toyota of N Charlotte
Don’t skip your test drive - make it easy and shop Toyota of N Charlotte today! You’ll find a great selection of inventory on our website and our sales specialists are ready and waiting to help you find the perfect new ride.
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