One sure way to know if you’ll love the car you’re looking at buying is to take it for a test drive. While this is standard procedure for most, a TikToker who works at a dealership recently shared why that’s a bad idea. Interestingly, she makes some good points, but followers aren’t buying it, as many announced it doesn’t work for them.
Before Your Next Test Drive
Ashxauto sells cars and is popular on TikTok for her car-related videos. She shares tidbits from her day, amusing videos to make things more bearable, and helpful hints for people looking to buy a new car. “The only reason the dealership wants you to drive that car is so you can fall in love with it and take mental ownership.” She said. “They want you to form an emotional connection with the car so you’ll be so excited you’ll just say yes to whatever they say.”
She also shared that dealerships make you sit around for hours “on purpose.” “They want you to be so mentally exhausted and so drained that you sign on the dotted line simply so you can get out of there.” She said.
Read More: Man bravely dove 25 feet off a bridge to save toddler thrown from car in multi-vehicle crash
Skeptics Still Test Drive
Although Ash is a professional with experience in how dealerships operate, viewers weren’t convinced that her advice made the most sense. Rather, many feel that buying a car without taking it on a test drive is a bad idea. “Test drive the car, leave the dealership, do research on the numbers, call several dealerships negotiate, and make them an offer over the phone. If they say no, keep looking.” One person commented.
“Nah, I’ve test-driven cars before. You just have to learn to say no and walk away if it’s not what you are after.” Said another.
“Buying a car without a test drive is a recipe for buyer remorse,” added a third.
“It’s even worse if you’re trying to buy a used car, the odds of you end up with a junk is much higher without a test drive.” Explained a final follower.
Getting the Most from a Test Drive
Whether or not you agree with Ash’s advice, you’ve likely wondered how to know if you’re making the right choice when buying your next car- particularly if you’re not a car expert. According to Consumer Reports, here are some tips to help you navigate your next test drive.
Cover Different Types of Roads
During a test drive, you’ll learn a lot about a prospective new car. The longer you can run the test, the better, namely the more opportunities to explore different driving conditions, the better. If possible, look for terrain roads like gravel driveways, rocky parking lots, and standard roads. Next, take note of the noises coming from the engine or outside road noises like wind. Additionally, pay attention to how the car steers and breaks.
Get Comfortable
Next, get better acquainted with the vehicle once you’ve done a test drive and are seriously considering buying the car. Learn how the car will connect with your devices, and figure out the windshield wipers and the lights. Check the safety and other features in the package you’re looking to purchase.
Compare the Old Car
Lastly, make a checklist and compare notes. Consider what you like and don’t like about your current car such as storage or a sunroof. Then compare it to the perspective new car, ensuring you’ll be satisfied with your purchase. Although the test drive to ensure comfort and convenience is important, it’s equally (if not more) important to consider the logical aspects, including the dealer’s customer satisfaction rating and the car’s reputation for reliability, especially if it’s a pre-owned vehicle.
Buying a new car without a test drive first seems unreasonable to most people. However, Ash offered some good advice. The best thing to do is meet in the middle, going into the test drive and car buying experience prepared for what may come your way.
Read More: Mom Leaves ‘Baby’ In Car While She Shops At Target – Promises Others That He’s OK