When shopping for a new vehicle, many people fall in love with a car because of its appearance. Others do a little research or get a recommendation from a family member or friend and decide to go with a particular make and model. If you’re planning to purchase a new vehicle, it’s important to test drive it to make sure that it’s the right one for you.

Is the Vehicle in Good Condition?

Even if the car is brand new, you should inspect it inside and out for signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, chipped glass, and ripped or stained upholstery. It may have a manufacturing defect, it may have been damaged while it was being transported to the dealership, or there may have been an accident when someone took it on a test drive. If you spot any problems, bring them to the salesperson’s attention and request repairs or a price reduction.

It’s a good idea to take a pre-owned vehicle that you’re thinking about buying to a mechanic you trust for an inspection. An independent professional may notice problems that the dealership didn’t detect or failed to disclose and that you would not pick up on yourself. If the car has a serious issue, it may be wise to pass and keep looking, no matter how much you like other features of the vehicle.

How Does the Car Handle?

Drive the vehicle on local roads with stop-and-go traffic and on a highway to see how it handles. Take a route that will allow you to accelerate, decelerate, make turns, and change lanes at a variety of speeds. Drive up a hill, if possible, so you can see if the car struggles to power up the incline. 

If you notice that the vehicle hesitates, makes unusual sounds, or is difficult to handle under some circumstances, there may be a problem that needs to be fixed. If it’s a new car, it may have a manufacturing defect, or there may be a design flaw that affects all vehicles of that make and model.

Is the Car Comfortable for You?

A vehicle that’s comfortable for someone else may not be the right fit for you. When you get into a car to go for a test drive, see if the seat supports your body and gives you enough space so you don’t feel cramped. Make sure that you’re able to position the mirrors so you can see behind you and on the sides. 

Find the Right Insurance Coverage for Your New Car

You will want to protect your investment in case you get involved in an accident. Petruzelo Insurance can help you compare car insurance policies with a variety of coverage options and limits. Contact us today to request quotes from several leading insurers.