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Let’s say you found that perfect car. You’ve watched YouTube videos and shopped for the right model with the right specs, and you’re ready to buy the car. That’s great! However, before you fork over thousands of dollars, you should test drive your intended car. In fact, you might want to consider test-driving multiple vehicles. 

Unlike leg day, you may not be able to afford to skip the test drive

Buying a car online is a popular option for today’s shoppers. However, unless the vehicle purchase has a trial period, you may be forfeiting the ability to take a car for a test drive. While that might not seem like the end of the world, your first drive in a vehicle can clear a few things up. 

  • What seems great in concept might not be in execution
  • A test drive can reveal mechanical and electrical issues
  • Discover rattles, squeaks, or unpleasant features
  • Compare vehicle types and models
  • Getting a feel for a vehicle’s controls and infotainment

For starters, you might find the right vehicle, read reviews, and make up your mind. However, you won’t know whether you like driving a vehicle until you, well, drive it. Take note of factors like the ride, responsiveness, handling, driving position, and visibility. After all, you might think the sport-tuned suspension is a good idea right now, but after you drive it, you might not feel that way.

In addition to determining whether you enjoy driving a car, a test drive can uncover issues, quirks, and sanity-smashing noises. Think that rattle is something you can live with right now? Try living with it for 120,000 miles.

Don’t stop at one vehicle. Let’s say you have your eyes set on a compact SUV. Test drive the segment competition for your favorite model. You might find that you prefer a different SUV.

Finally, don’t forget to fiddle with the controls, functions, and infotainment system on your test drive. What’s more, don’t hesitate to ask a salesperson how to navigate a vehicle’s functions. Frankly, you might find that you prefer a vehicle brand’s proprietary infotainment system over something like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman is a MotorBiscuit Staff Writer, an admitted petrolhead, and an avid motorcyclist. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with expertise covering everything from sports cars and electric motorcycles to pontoon boats and jet skis. Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He also studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC). When he’s not working, you can find Erik on his motorcycle or out for a spirited drive.