How to Test Drive a Used Car in Calgary Like a Pro

How to Test Drive a Used Car in Calgary Like a Pro

So, you've found your perfect used car in Calgary, it's the right size, price, and even color, now for the ultimate test. Here's how to ace the test drive.

Keyword(s): used car in Calgary

If you're looking to purchase a used car in Calgary, you definitely want to make sure you test drive it first. In fact, there are actually a few things you need to consider before making that down payment.

Some car buyers get intimidated by all of the information they feel like they need to know when buying a car. Some buyers walk into a dealership completely unprepared for the process. That's okay because studies show that most buyers don't make initial contact with the dealership until they actually walk into the facility.

Before you walk in, though, it's smart to do some research ahead of time. The good news is that you have come to the right place by reading this article. Below are all of the details you need to know when it comes to acing your test drive.

Find the Best Used Car in Calgary

Used cars come in all shapes and sizes. You want to make sure you don't get taken advantage of.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options for buying a used car in Calgary that are sensible, affordable, and a worthwhile investment. Consider these great cars that are cheap. After doing plenty of research, you should without a doubt be able to find a used car that suits all of your financial and functional needs.

Narrow your search down to 2-3 options for a car you might purchase. These are the ones you should be prepared to test drive.

Initial Inspection

If you are doing research online about a car before going to the dealership, take careful notes of the accompanying description of it. Once you see the car in person, compare it to that description before you even get behind the wheel.

Is the paint job as high-quality as you were expecting? Are there gaps in any of the paneling on the exterior of the car? Is there hail damage that maybe wasn't mentioned in the description?

It is important at this stage that you do not let the salesperson talk you into test driving a more expensive car. Stick with what you originally planned to test drive.

You should also consider for what purposes you will end up using the car you buy. If you plan to have a lot of passengers, now is a good time to get a feel for how spacious the interior is.

Questions to Ask

After doing the initial inspection yourself, it's time to ask your specific questions. You'll quickly be informed about the basic specifications such as mileage or fuel efficiency.

You should also seriously consider checking out one of the several free online car history services. This is how you will know how many wrecks the car has been in or how many previous owners the car has had.

Ask the salesperson about recent maintenance history. When was the last time the car got an oil change? How old are all four of the tires on the car?

At this point, you should make sure to ask as many questions as you need to in order to feel comfortable getting behind the wheel. If you have any misgivings, listen to your gut. There is no need to take an unnecessary risk in purchasing a car you aren't in love with.

Checking the Safety

Now, it is time for the fun part. You get to test drive your potential new ride!

As you start driving, remember that safety is one of the most important parts of driving any vehicle. This starts with the interior.

Do the airbags seem to work? Are there any engine lights on? Do all of the seatbelts snap into place?

Check the sensibility of the brakes. Also, check how easy it is to turn the wheel and handle the vehicle while driving. If the power steering of the car is struggling, you could end up being in danger later on down the road.

Checking the Comfort

Of course, you also want to check the luxurious parts about your potential purchase of a used car in Calgary. Don't worry - used cars can still come with some pretty fancy features!

How do you like the feel of the seats? How cramped do you feel in the driver's seat? Is it a quiet ride, or is something loud and perhaps rattling as you cruise on down the road?

Discomfort, though it seems like it's not a necessary concern, can truly make or break your overall experience of a car. Don't sell yourself short here.

Even though most dealers should take care of this, it might be a good idea for you to also check the cleanliness of the interior. Signs of crumbs or oils that have not been detailed might point to other signs of neglect.

At the end of the test drive, you should have a complete perspective of the car's functionality, comfort, and safety features.

After the Test Drive

Once you show back up to the dealership after test driving the used car in Calgary you are considering, it is time to seriously consider the purchase.

Note how the salesperson has handled your interactions overall. Did he or she seem too pushy for you? Is there anything about the car that makes it not worth your time?

At this point, whoever is trying to sell you the car is really going to be pushing for you to sign on the dotted line. Don't let the pressure get to you, though. Remember, you are in control of whether or not the car is a perfect fit for your needs.

Moving Forward with Your Used Car Purchase

If you do think like this is the used car in Calgary that you want to buy, congratulations! Buying a car is an exciting point in life.

If you are worried about your finances, that's okay. The best dealers will have financing options to help make the used car in Calgary you want to be more affordable.

We know how important it is to find the best used car in Calgary for your budget. Check out our financing page for more information. We look forward to finding the best car for you.