Jan 10, 2024
5 Test Drive Tips

Make Your Next Vehicle Test Drive Better with Tips from the Thelen Auto Group

A test drive really is the best way to get a confident sense of how a vehicle will fit into your family’s everyday travel needs. Everything from the performance to the interior amenities can be tested and evaluated to make sure they meet your expectations. If you are looking to test drive a prospective vehicle from any of the Thelen Auto Group dealerships in Bay City, MI, let us share with you our five favorite tips to make the most out of your appointment! We are confident that when you incorporate these tips into your next test drive, you’ll come out of it with a positive experience and a more informed purchasing decision. 

Our Favorite Test Drive Tips in Mid-Michigan

1. Research Your Vehicle Before You Arrive!

Are you looking at a new vehicle or one of the many quality pre-owned options that we have available across our family of locations? Before you visit us to start your test drive appointment, browse the online inventory page on our website! You’ll get all relevant information such as engine, drivetrain, and interior amenity details so that you know what to expect before you arrive. 

2. Bring Items That You Plan on Regularly Having With You

A great vehicle can still be the wrong option if it doesn’t cater to the items you are consistently traveling with. As such, bring those items you and your family routinely carry along for the ride. If you have an infant, bring along a car seat so that you can see how it fits in the prospective vehicle. This way, you won’t have to second guess if the vehicle is the right choice after you purchase it! 

3. Thoroughly Look Over the Interior & Exterior of the Vehicle

Even though we maintain the vehicles at our various locations very well, we still actively encourage you to take the time to inspect the car, truck, or SUV that you plan on purchasing before you start driving. This way you can make sure you are thrilled with the interior and exterior of the vehicle. 

4. Ask Questions!

The friendly and knowledgeable sales professional who will accompany you on your test drive isn’t just there to be a second person in the vehicle. We think it is so important to ask any additional questions you might have about the vehicle. Whether it is before the drive, during the drive, or afterward, please feel free to ask anything where you might have a concern or want to know more about!  

5. Drive Normally for Your Style

Everyone in mid-Michigan drives differently. As such, any vehicle will handle and feel differently based on who is behind the wheel. Therefore, make sure you drive like you normally do in your current vehicle. By doing so, you will get a sense of how the steering, acceleration, and braking all feel based on your style. Depending on the time of year, you can also get an idea of how the vehicle will handle different road conditions. No matter when you do, our route will ensure that you get to experience all aspects of the vehicle during your test drive.  Remember to follow all safety directives and laws during your test drive.

(Photo Credit: iStock)