How to Perform the Ultimate

Test Drive

Brought to you by Tempe Auto Plex

Why a Good Test Drive is Critical

In 2014, many people are considering upgrading or

trading in their vehicle for a newer, sleeker model.

It's important to do your research with a purchase like

this, and one of the best ways to find your dream car is to

perform a series of test drives.

Many people spend as much time in their car

commuting as they do with their kids or other leisure

activities, so it's important to make sure you're

comfortable!

Here at Tempe Auto Plex, we've put together a "test drive

checklist" to make sure you're making the best purchase

decision possible.

1. Make a List

Dealership websites now allow you to find the exact

model, colors, and features you're looking for before

actually visiting the showroom.

Make sure you list your highest priorities, such as: all-

terrain, gas mileage, trunk space, rear cup holders, XM

radio, GPS, custom interiors, and Bose Speakers.

These can now be searched on most dealer inventory

websites, making it more likely you will find a car that

meets all your needs without wasting any time.

While on the website, you can also see if your vehicle is

in stock and view similar models as well.

2. Practice Makes Perfect

While preforming your test drive, make sure to get in

and out with your most common gear such as a

backpack, briefcase, gym bag, diaper bag, or purse,

because this will be your everyday car.

Bring all the drivers and passengers of the new car to

the test drive as well.

This can be a fun event for the entire family - Give

everyone a chance at the wheel, watch the DVD system

in the back seats, and try out the XM radio and Bose

speakers.

It is impossible for the driver to see everything from the

driver seat so getting the collective experience from

multiple drivers and passengers can help eliminate

common oversights from behind the wheel.

3. Casual Encounter

Once you're inside the vehicle that matches your needs,

get cozy.

Don't be afraid to properly adjust all safety features,

mirrors, and seat lengths to your personal preferences.

Acquaint yourself with the gauges, lumbar and neck

support, radio and navigation systems, and climate

controls.

Take a long test drive to make sure you are comfortable.

With the average commute being over 25 minutes, it's

important to get a full-bodied experience including lane

changes, different speeds, and bumps.

Some dealerships even allow buyers to drive their test car

home for a night, just to make sure it is the perfect fit!

4. Make an Appointment

After finding the car that piques your interest, be

sure to call ahead and make sure the vehicle is still

on the lot (and hasn't been sold!).

Then make an appointment so the car will be

ready for you to drive as soon as you arrive.

Calling ahead to securing a set time will maximize

the time you spend at the dealership and give the

best 1 to 1 comparison of each vehicle, if you plan

on test driving more than one.

Get the Most Out of Your Test Drive

Securing your dream car requires some

preparation and strategy.

These 4 tips will help lead to the best test

drive experience and make sure you find the

perfect vehicle!

Ready to test drive

your dream car?

Visit Tempe Auto Plex

Website: Tempe Auto Plex

Address: South Autoplex Loop

Tempe, AZ 85284