Johannesburg - Don’t get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car - avoid buyer’s remorse by taking your time on test drives.
First off, make sure to drive the particular model you intend to buy. Don’t rely purely on the advice of friends and published road tests.
Once you’re comfortably behind the wheel, review how well the primary controls are laid out. Ergonomics can make or break a good car. Observe how certain features might become irritating in day-to-day use, for example, inadequate storage space and cup holders or a boot that is difficult to operate.
The driver’s and front passenger’s doors may be large and easy to open and close, but examine the ease of entry and exit for rear-seat occupants. This is especially important when you intend to install a child seat. Check to make sure whether the rear seats are adjustable, comfortable and sufficient in size. Also check whether they fold down for greater cargo capacity.
Review the car’s safety features, such as airbags, and active-safety electronics like ABS brakes and stability control. Make sure that the primary controls are easy to use. Look for adjustable controls - a height and reach-adjustable steering wheel can be of great benefit.
TEST DRIVE
If possible, take the test drive alone without any distractions. Experience the car on multiple road surfaces and at varying speeds - don’t be pressurised into a quick jaunt around the block on ultra-smooth roads. Take several corners to evaluate the vehicle’s composure when abruptly changing direction over rough surfaces as well as how smoothly the transmission operates when driving.
Check to see if the car will easily manoeuvre where you need to use, park and store it. Take special note of the vehicle’s ground clearance.
Visibility is important. Observe how well you can see out in all directions, particularly through the rear window, and whether the vehicle offers blind-spot monitors for assistance. Listen out for noise levels inside the vehicle - how much outside noise and wind enters the cabin and whether the tyres drone.
Some cars cost more than others to maintain. Do your homework before committing.
Many new cars come with a maintenance or service plan to keep you covered for a period of time or distance, but second-hand cars nearing the end of their service plans could be costly in the long run. Even the costs of simple oil and filter services can differ vastly between brands and models, so do a bit of research on the car you’re interested in before buying.
Pick up the phone and call a dealer to get basic service prices, and also ask about common replacement items such as brake discs and pads. That used beauty you’ve spotted might be just within your price range now, but you might find that its first visit to the workshop breaks the bank. Another model might offer significantly lower repair bills that could pay off further down the road.
Star Motoring