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Buying a new car is a long-lived dream for many. But what comes before buying or even choosing your car is a test drive. So much is dependent on this one short drive that you will take and could result in you driving off the lot with your new car.
Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to get the most out of their test drive, but fret not as we, DCH Honda Oxnard, bring you the 6 most fabulous tips for how to test drive like a pro.
1. Begin with making a decision
Decide what you need in a car. You can start by making a list of what you do and don't want. For example, ask yourself what matters to you the most among mileage and performance. Would you rather have a good-looking car or a good-performing car?
After that, it's time to start looking at models that fit your needs, like the 2022 Honda Accord or the 2022 Honda Civic.
2. Get to know the car before you start driving
Before you get behind the wheel, take a good look at the car you're about to test drive. This is your chance to get an idea of what the car looks and feels like on the inside. Once you're in the driver's seat, take a minute to get familiar with everything.
3. Inspect the engine
A common mistake people make is not inspecting the engine before they start driving. Make sure to open the hood and take a look at the engine. An additional tip from us would be to test the engine before and after starting the car. This way, you can notice if the engine is behaving strangely.
4. Look Under the Car
By looking under the car, you can check for any damages that might have occurred during shipping or while the car was sitting in the dealership. Mostly rust is hidden beneath, and you will only be able to inspect it if you check it from below.
5. Test-drive more than one model
If your heart is firmly set on a specific model, we advise you to test-drive multiple models from the same make. This will give you an extensive idea of what to expect from the car. Sometimes we see clients choosing a model based on its looks, but when they test-drive it, they find the ride completely different from what they expected.
6. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
A pre-purchase inspection is an objective third-party assessment of the vehicle. A qualified mechanic will check the vehicle inside and out for any signs of wear and tear for a fee. We recommend this to all our clients, even if you are buying a certified pre-owned car from a dealership.
You can master your test drive at any dealership with all these tips in mind. However, suppose you're looking for a trusted dealership with years of experience under the belt. In that case, you can opt for DCH Honda Oxnard, serving Oak View, CA.
We have a range of new and used Honda models, and thanks to advanced technology, we now offer our clients a Virtual Test-Drive experience.
