What to look for on a new car test drive?

I'm planning to buy my first ever new car, an Accord LX. I've never taken a
new car on a test drive, although I've scrutinized many a used one. I'd be
interested to know what things I should look for in a new car specifically.
My bet is that most people just get in and drive a mile or two and say
"Hmmm... nice. I'll buy it". How can we avoid the lemons?
--

 

1) try all the accessories, such as radio reception, air cond, windows, etc.

2) take it on the freeway

3) climb hills

4) walk around the car and inspect fit and finish

 

From: (Greg)
wrote:

Check for wind noise at higher speeds. Some cars get a lot of wind noise
at speeds above 50.

Check for how the seat feels for your size. Headroom, legroom

Trunk size. Check spare.

Look the exterior of the car over very carefully for blemishes. Point
out any dings or scratches on the spot. Get them to commit to fixing
them. Same for the interior. On the test drive, don't let the salesman
talk the whole time. Listen for creaks and rattles.

The last advice I'd give is to really look at some of the upgrades they
offer, especially if you're financing. A few extra bucks a month can get
you a nicer set of wheels or a spoiler that will make you stand out from
all the rest. I have a neighbor who just bought an Accord. He's mad at
himself for not opting for the leather interior, in order to 'save
money'. The amount it adds to a payment is so minimal, and the enjoyment
of the upgrades is worth it, IMO. Plus, there's that horrible feeling of
regret for not adding an upgrade. Kind of tarnishes the new car a bit.

 

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Greg,

You could start with reading John Horner's post (yesterday). If you find
anything wrong with the car, make sure it's in WRITING on the contract.
Check other resources where they do reviews and ratings to make sure
you're aware of 'known issues'. Regarding options, there are many web
sites that help you know which ones are worth it and which ones are just
overpriced 'fluff'. Undercoating by the dealer comes to mind . . . Look
at this site as a starter

http://www.carbuyingtips.com/

Test drive with the stereo turned OFF, and salesman MUZZLED. Find a
parking lot with lots of speed bumps and try different speeds to see if
any internal rattles appear. Try wiggling around on both front seats to
check for any creaks / looseness. That's all I can think of now, but I'm
no expert on buying a new car, since I've never done it.

'Curly'
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Regarding stage performances: When everyone else has finished playing,
you should not play any notes you have left over. -

 

YOU could start by reading it too! If you read it you will see that I
started this thread because of it. See my posts there.

Thanks for your other advice though! ;-)

 

Other than keeping alert at all times, watch for vehicles
turning left in front of you and cross traffic in general. Those
are the most dangerous situations for the average driver.


mike hunt

 

(Top-posting corrected)

If it floats your boat, go ahead and buy it. Just be forewarned that any
accessory you buy at the dealer will probably cost double what it costs
anywhere else. Buying accessories through the dealer just so that you can
put it on the financing is stupid. If you are that short of cash, you
shouldn't be buying a new car.

George

 

But, If the car isn't in high demand or near the end of it's production run
(e.g Civic), the cost of the extra can be a bargaining chip. I'm sure the
dealership markup their accessory at least 100 percent. In my opinion, the
body kits from the dealership tends to look nicer when compared to the
extroverted after market products. Also, I would pay the extra for the
dealership's installed power upgrade so that the warrantee doesn't get void.
However, there's much to be said about a naturally inspired engine which will
return consistent power over the long run.

Pars

 

Wow! You are a genius!

What did all of us lame uneducated drivers do, before your insightful
advice?

 

That is what I believed as well.. But I guess he though that
things looked differently in a NEW car, so he asked for help on
what to look for when driving one.



mike hunt