How to test drive a car

How to test drive a car
Test driving a vehicle is a must before making your purchase. It allows you to get a feel of the car and check whether it is the right fit for you. Vehicles, like clothes, come in all shapes and sizes, so making sure you feel comfortable when test driving a car is of great importance. You wouldn't want to find out down the line that you dislike something about your ride, so read our top tips for test driving a car.  

Sitting in the car

Sitting in the car Sitting in the car
This tip is very simple. Enter the car and sit in it for a few moments to get a general feel for how it will be to drive. Things you should inspect are whether the car is easy to get in and out of, whether there is enough head space and legroom and if the driving position is comfortable. Be sure to sit in the back seat too, as this will ensure that any passengers you travel with will also feel comfortable.  

Driving comfort

Driving comfort Car pedals
While the car is in motion, you must ensure that everything you interact with is just the way you like it. This includes the steering wheel’s position. Make sure it is not too high and not too low. The pedal position needs to be just right as it could lead to mistakes and consequently accidents, if you have a hard time stepping on it. When in motion, be sure that the mirrors are adjusted and the blind spots are at a minimum to give you the greatest road awareness possible.  

Fit for purpose

Steep road Steep road
Why have you decided to purchase a car? It may seem like a simple question, but it is not so straightforward. Your test drive should match your driving requirements. If you frequently drive on very hilly terrain, then allow some time during the test to embark on exactly this type of road. Examine the driving functions such as the suspension, braking, steering and handling. If they do not suit your requirements than this vehicle may not be for you.

Test drive other vehicles

Test drive other vehicles Test other vehicles
When buyers go to a dealership, they usually have more than one car in mind. Purchasing the first thing you test drive is an unwise decision as you may have a better experience in another vehicle. Test drive a number of cars so that you can make an informed decision that will guarantee you purchase the best car for you. Once you have tested a number of cars, weigh them up against one another and choose the one which is most suited to you in all areas.

Read All

Featured Articles

Recommended Articles For You

Read All

Car Articles From Zigwheels

  • News
  • Article Feature
  • Advisory Stories
  • Road Test
  • ACMobility guarantees worry-free electrified mobility EV models, charging hubs
    ACMobility guarantees worry-free electrified mobility EV models, charging hubs
    Ruben Manahan IV . Today
  • LTO announces DL renewal schedule, to commence after Holy Week
    LTO announces DL renewal schedule, to commence after Holy Week
    Paulo Papa . Today
  • GAC Motor PH to reveal Emkoo Hybrid
    GAC Motor PH to reveal Emkoo Hybrid
    Ruben Manahan IV . Mar 27, 2024
  • Toyota PH offers emergency roadside assistance for Lenten season anew
    Toyota PH offers emergency roadside assistance for Lenten season anew
    Paulo Papa . Mar 27, 2024
  • Honda Cars PH reactivates HEAT for Holy Week
    Honda Cars PH reactivates HEAT for Holy Week
    Paulo Papa . Mar 27, 2024
  • Brembo: an ideal choice for discerning Filipino car owners
    Brembo: an ideal choice for discerning Filipino car owners
    Paulo Papa . Mar 26, 2024
  • Flyweight feud: Suzuki S-Presso AGS vs. Honda Brio V CVT
    Flyweight feud: Suzuki S-Presso AGS vs. Honda Brio V CVT
    Paulo Papa . Mar 20, 2024
  • Cabin check: What’s inside the BYD Atto 3
    Cabin check: What’s inside the BYD Atto 3
    Paulo Papa . Mar 19, 2024
  • Midsize SUV battle: Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Ford Everest
    Midsize SUV battle: Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Ford Everest
    Paulo Papa . Mar 14, 2024
  • Hyundai Santa Fe: 6 seductive colors
    Hyundai Santa Fe: 6 seductive colors
    Paulo Papa . Mar 12, 2024
  • Here are some ideal destinations and safety tips for the upcoming Holy Week
    Here are some ideal destinations and safety tips for the upcoming Holy Week
    Paulo Papa . Mar 08, 2024
  • Here are some New Year’s resolutions for car owners
    Here are some New Year’s resolutions for car owners
    Paulo Papa . Jan 03, 2024
  • PH auto market: 2023 in retrospect
    PH auto market: 2023 in retrospect
    Paulo Papa . Dec 15, 2023
  • Here’s a holiday gift guide for car enthusiasts
    Here’s a holiday gift guide for car enthusiasts
    Hazel Nicole Carreon . Dec 15, 2023
  • Oil players cut pump prices anew
    Oil players cut pump prices anew
    Paulo Papa . Nov 14, 2023
  • First look: JMC Grand Avenue
    First look: JMC Grand Avenue
    Paulo Papa . Mar 27, 2024
  • Above average: Toyota Raize G
    Above average: Toyota Raize G
    Paulo Papa . Mar 22, 2024
  • BYD Atto 3: from the metro to the mountains
    BYD Atto 3: from the metro to the mountains
    Paulo Papa . Mar 18, 2024
  • Late bloomer: Hyundai Stargazer GLS Premium
    Late bloomer: Hyundai Stargazer GLS Premium
    Ruben Manahan IV . Mar 08, 2024
  • Adventure-ready: Subaru Crosstrek
    Adventure-ready: Subaru Crosstrek
    Paulo Papa . Mar 01, 2024