Things to think about when taking a test drive

Buying a pair of shoes without trying them on.

Even if youve worn the same brand for over 20 years, no one should make a purchase - especially based on comfort - without testing it first. Sure, there are circumstances that prohibit such a fitting, like online purchases, or getting it as a gift - but if the opportunity presents itself, theres really no reason not to.

On a somewhat larger scale, many people out there find its ok to purchase an automobile without taking it for a test drive. An uncomfortable pair of shoes costing $200 is a tough pill to swallow, but an uncomfortable car worth around $20,000 is at least five years of agony…and youll feel it on a daily basis.

One reason behind the cold shoulder could be the fact that people dont want to deal with the salesperson. The thought of negotiating makes certain people sick to their stomach, so getting in and out as quickly as possible is the only way to go. Others feel that because theyve driven the brand so much, they figure newer can only mean better, and so why waste time when theres no doubt its what theyre getting?

Way back when, before the dawn of time, people didnt have access to multiple reports and reviews for new cars. There were magazines, but in order to get a good handle on a car, one needed to get up and sit behind the wheel. Nowadays, with a few clicks of the mouse, thousands of photos and tidbits of info are at your disposal, so shoppers are more informed than ever. However no one person is alike, so while many may love the car you have your eyes on...you might not. Quite a gamble to rely on someone elses opinion.

Which leads us back to the test drive. If youre so inclined to partake, ther e are certain steps to follow when taking that perfect vehicle out for a spin.

1. Check out the vehicle
Have you ever gotten in someone elses car - or maybe a rental - and after a while tried to turn on the headlights or wipers…and have no idea how to do it? Familiarize yourself with the car youre interested in. Which side is the gas tank? How do I adjust the temp controls? Theres how much room when the rear seats are folded? While they may seem minor, they all add up to something that will make your driving experience a pleasurable one…or not.

2. Bring people with
Whether theyre going to be driving the vehicle or not, having others with you is great because they might catch something - good or bad - that you might miss. Maybe its a tight back seat, or a unbelievably user-friendly front console, others opinions can ultimately make or break a purch ase.

3. Its your test drive…not theirs
Maybe youve been to this rodeo before…or maybe you havent. Either way, youve driven a car before, and youve figured out what makes you comfortable. Maybe its the front seat adjustments, or the audio volume, or even personal goals to see how fast you can get to the next stoplight. When behind the wheel for the test drive, do what feels comfortable to you. If you prefer to have that radio on, then turn it on. If you want to drive slow, then drive slow. This is a big purchase, so letting someone else dictate your driving should certainly be tossed out the window.

4. Feel free to let loose
Once youve gotten in your comfort zone, take a few minutes to test some of the vehicles limits - like the engine power or how it handles tight curves. Of course, theres no way to account for every driving scenario within the dea lerships 2-mile radius, but you can still get a good feel for what may lie ahead.

5. Drive the exact model
So the precise model you were looking at isnt available for a test drive. Even the slightest changes in engine power, transmission or tech features can change the cars makeup, so wait until it becomes available before you take that drive and make the final decision.

True Story: One day, a man came into a dealership (not ours), and told the salesperson they were there to purchase a car for his mother. Luckily, he knew what she wanted, and what she was willing to pay. The salesperson urged that his mother to come down and at least take it for a test drive, but he refused. The deal was done, and the son drove the new car away. Sure enough, a couple of weeks later the man and his mother came back and asked for a new vehicle. Apparently, there was an issue with the womans right foot, and the angle of one of the pedals was giving her such problems, she wasnt able to continue driving. A trade was ultimately reached, and she left as the proud owner of a new, and more comfortable, car.

Except for a house, an automobile is arguably one of the biggest purchases that one will make in their lifetime. To pick one without taking it for a spin can be a big, and very costly mistake.

For an enjoyable and pressure-free car buying experience, visit your local Acura dealer at Mullers Woodfield Acura in Hoffman Estates. For quality and professional service, please call to set up an appointment.