At Subaru, we’re all about confidence in motion, and we understand the importance of choosing the right car. That’s why we’re committed to helping you make an informed decision. Booking a test drive is an excellent way to experience a car’s performance, comfort, and features before making a final decision. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of test driving a car, the rules and requirements, what to look for, how to test drive, and how long you can test drive a car for.
The Benefits of Test Driving a Car
The concept of test drives were created so that someone in the market can learn more about the vehicle once they get behind the wheel. It’s important to do a test drive so that you can understand the car’s features such as safety, power of acceleration, comfort, noise and smoothness.
Here are some benefits of test driving a car:
• Detecting issues and red flags: If there are any potential issues with the car, test driving it will bring them to light. Listen for unusual noises, any warning lights and anything else that might suggest underlying problems.
• Compare options: If you’re considering multiple car models, test drives help shift your mind into perspective.
• Assess performance: Test driving the car you have in mind will help you determine if it meets your expectations. You can test its power, responsiveness and driving conditions on the road.
Rules and Requirements for Test Driving a Car
Unfortunately, test driving a car is not as simple as heading to a dealership and jumping in the car you find most attractive. There are certain rules and requirements for test driving a car that you need to meet, such as:
• Valid driver’s license that is up to date.
• Being over a certain age limit – you need to be at least 18 years and older.
• The dealership may require proof of insurance before allowing you to test drive a car.
• Try your best to schedule an appointment with the dealership so that the vehicle can be prepared.
• A salesperson or representative from the dealership will accompany you during the test drive.
Some dealerships have specific rules for test driving, such as being supervised at all times, adhering to the age restriction and having a clean driving record.
What to Look for When Test Driving a Car
You’re only one test drive away from the car that you want. There are many things to look out for when test driving a car, such as its comfort and rideability. Some other things to look out for include:
• Comfort and ergonomics: When test driving a car, take note of the comfort and seating position. Is it comfortable? Are the seats supportive?
• Acceleration and braking: Test the car’s acceleration and braking performance and if it’s smooth and has sufficient power for your needs.
• Controls and technology: Get to know the ins and outs of the car by testing the functionality of the infotainment system and other important features.
• Safety features: If the car has safety features such as lane departure warning or blind spot monitoring, test their effectiveness during the drive.
• Overall impression: After test driving, assess whether it meets your expectations, if it suits your driving style and ticks all your boxes.
To ensure you don’t miss anything, create a simple car inspection checklist for the driving test. This inspection list can include interior and exterior checks. brakes, steering, acceleration, visibility and safety features.
How to Test Drive a Car at a Dealership
Scheduling a test drive at a dealership is as easy as driving an automatic car.. You can book a test drive on the dealership’s website or by contacting the dealership directly. To book a test drive at Subaru, all you have to do is complete our online form telling us who you are, how to contact you, where you’re located and what car model you’re interested in test driving. When you arrive for your test drive, we will provide you with a route and duration for the test drive. Make sure you have your inspection list ready as well as your license and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a sales rep and they will guide you through the test drive process. Then, you will complete some paperwork and make a copy of your driver’s license for records. You will then be guided to the car you wish to test drive and the rep will guide you on the route and estimated duration. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the car and its features during the test drive to gain a better understanding.
Can I Test Drive a Car Alone?
Test driving a car alone is not something that every dealership offers, this is mostly due to security reasons. Many dealerships will allow a sales representative to accompany you for safety reasons and to assist with route guidance and more information on the car. Some dealerships may allow you to test drive a car alone, while others may require supervision. It’s best to always check with the dealership before your test drive.
How Long Can You Test Drive a Car?
The duration of a test drive varies between dealerships, but it’s typically around 30 minutes to an hour. Some dealerships may allow you to extend the duration of the test drive, so it’s best to check with the dealership before your test drive a new or used car.
When you do decide on the car that you feel is right for you, make sure you’ve done all your research and booked a test drive to help you make a confident decision. At Subaru, we’re committed to helping you find the right car for your needs. Book a test drive with us today to experience our commitment to safety, performance, and innovation.
