4 Best Practices for Evaluating a Car

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Test driving a car is an essential step in the buying process. Whether buying something brand new or browsing all of the used cars Boise offers, you want to take it for a spin before signing on the dotted line. But is there more to it than just driving it around the block? Of course there is. There are important steps to consider before, during, and after the test drive to ensure you learn the most about the vehicle. Before heading for a test drive, keep these four things in mind.

Bring Your License and Any Other Daily Essentials

You will obviously need your driver’s license and proof of insurance for the test drive, but you should also bring any belongings that can help in the decision-making process when you head to one of the best used car dealerships Boise offers. This might include child car seats or booster seats, strollers, golf clubs, your favorite drink cup or thermos, handbags, backpacks, briefcases, suitcases, and anything else you plan to load in the car regularly. This ensures your daily essentials will fit and the car can keep up with your daily life.

Check the Car’s Interior

Before you start the engine, you want to thoroughly check out the car's interior. This includes everything from the comfort of the seats to the functionality of all electric components (which is especially important for pre-owned vehicles). Sit in each seat and evaluate the comfort. Test the adjustments to make sure they’re working as well. Additionally, press all the buttons to test the wipers, infotainment system, turn signal, and all other features. While you’re at it, check the AC and heating system to make sure they work well. If everything works, it’s time to head outside.

Walk Around the Car

It’s important to give the car more than a quick glance. Finer details can be crucial. What’s the condition of the tires? How’s the paint job? Turn on the lights and see how well they perform. Is one headlight brighter than the other? Check the turn signals from the outside to make sure they work properly. Take your time and really give the car a thorough inspection and if you see any issues, make sure they’re priced in or see if the dealer is willing to fix them.

Take It for a Spin

Now it’s time to get behind the wheel and take this vehicle for a spin. If possible, take the car on a test drive on the types of roads you typically drive. Surface roads can help you assess steering and braking, but you should also merge onto highways to test acceleration and handling. Try hills and twisty roads to see how it hangs around curves and corners. If you can, stop by your home and see if the car fits in the garage or parking spot. The more you drive a car, the more you get a feel for it. While you might not learn everything from a car during a short test drive, you can certainly learn a lot if you’re intentional.

About DENNIS DILLON

 For more than 48 years, DENNIS DILLON has been among the best dealerships in the Treasure Valley. The auto group serves all of the surrounding communities with convenient locations in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Caldwell, and Nampa. From a new GMC or Dodge to other used trucks Boise offers, DENNIS DILLON is committed to an excellent car-buying experience for everyone. With the DENNIS DILLON family of dealerships, you will find knowledgeable and helpful salespeople, regularly updated inventory, and easy financing options. DENNIS DILLON makes it easy to buy a new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicle.

Take a test drive at any of the DENNIS DILLON locations and find vehicles at https://www.dennisdillon.com/

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