Take an Extended Test Drive

We had a caller to the Car Pro Radio Show this past weekend who said his wife was wanting a new Jeep Wrangler.  I asked, as I always do if she had owned one before, and what her current vehicle was.  She had a Jeep, but it was not a Wrangler.  This always raises red flags with me.  Personally, I like Wranglers, but it is not a vehicle I would want as a daily driver, and my experience tells me that they are not for everyone, but those who love them, REALLY love them.

I suggested that they rent one for a weekend and it might be the best $150-$200 they could possibly spend. After a weekend, the caller’s wife would know if it was the right vehicle for her and her family.

let them know you desire an extended test drive.  If set up in advance, most dealerships will allow you to go alone for that half hour to an hour.  You will need to let them make a copy of your driver’s license and provide proof of insurance.

You may want to consider trying to arrange in advance a long test drive with a salesperson in the vehicle.  Often, it is uncomfortable driving a new vehicle by yourself, especially if you have not been in a new car in the last five years or so.  Much has changed, and it is often more comfortable to have a knowledgeable person with you. They can explain the features and benefits of the car as you drive, and show you how everything operates.

Bottom line: don’t shortcut the test drive, it is the most important drive of your life. You need to know if the car you are driving is right for you.  If someone tries to rush you through this part of the process, you are at the wrong dealership.

Reprinted from CarPro.

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