
Test driving a car is one of the most critical steps in buying a vehicle, whether new or used.
It’s your opportunity to get behind the wheel and ensure the car fits your needs and expectations.
In Canada, this process involves unique considerations, from varying weather conditions to specific regional practices.
Whether you’re purchasing your first vehicle or upgrading to a newer model, a test drive should never be rushed.
Here’s an in-depth guide on how to properly test drive a car in Canada, helping you make an informed decision.
1. Preparation Before The Test Drive
Before stepping into a dealership or contacting a private seller, preparation is key.
Understanding the basics will help ensure that your test drive is productive.
A. Research Your Options
Start by researching the car models you’re interested in. Whether you’re looking for an SUV to handle Canada’s harsh winters or a fuel-efficient sedan for city driving, knowing the key specs will help you identify if a car suits your needs. Pay attention to:
– Engine power and fuel efficiency
– Safety features (such as all-wheel drive, essential for winter roads)
– Tech features (like adaptive cruise control, parking assists, etc.)
B. Check Availability at Dealerships
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, contact dealerships to confirm availability. Many dealerships in Canada operate appointment-based test drives. During peak buying seasons (like the end of summer), it’s better to book in advance.
C. Have Your Documents Ready
Although you don’t need to make any purchases on the spot, bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance. Most dealerships will require a valid license before letting you test drive a vehicle. Some may also ask for a credit card to hold as a security deposit, particularly if you’re taking the car for a longer test drive.
2. What To Bring To The Test Drive
While the dealership will handle the basics, bringing a few items can make your test drive more insightful.
– Driver’s License: This is non-negotiable for anyone taking the car out for a test.
– Notebook/Phone: Taking notes during or after your test drive helps compare multiple cars.
– Your Typical Cargo: If you regularly transport hockey gear, strollers, or camping equipment, bring some along to check the car’s cargo capacity.
– A Trusted Companion: If you’re new to car buying, bring a friend or family member with you. An extra pair of eyes can help notice things you might overlook.
3. Evaluating The Exterior
Before getting inside, take some time to inspect the car’s exterior thoroughly.
Even if you’re looking at a brand-new car, ensure everything looks in order.
A. Tires and Wheels
– Check for even wear and the condition of the treads, especially for used vehicles.
– On new cars, ask if the vehicle comes with all-season or winter tires. Some dealerships in snowy regions may offer packages including winter tires, a must for Canadian winters.
B. Paint and Body
– Look for any scratches, dings, or mismatched paint, which may indicate previous damage.
– Inspect the vehicle’s panel gaps; uneven gaps can suggest poor manufacturing quality or repairs.
C. Windshield and Lights
– Check the windshield for any cracks or chips that could worsen with cold Canadian winters.
– Test all the lights—headlights, fog lights, and brake lights. You don’t want to buy a car with faulty lights, especially during the long, dark winters.
4. Getting Inside: Interior Inspection
Once inside, take your time assessing the vehicle’s comfort and convenience.
A. Comfort and Space
– Sit in both the driver’s and passenger’s seats. Are they adjustable, and do they provide enough lumbar support for long drives?
– Ensure the headroom and legroom are sufficient for everyone in your family or friend group.
B. Controls and Technology
– Test the touchscreen, climate control, and audio system. Is it intuitive? How easily can you access essential functions while driving?
– Check if the vehicle offers features like connecting your phone to the infotainment system and built-in GPS, which can enhance your driving experience.
– Test heated seats and steering wheels—these can be game-changers during Canadian winters.
C. Cargo Space
– Open the trunk or rear hatch and examine how much cargo you can fit. Fold the seats down to see if the vehicle offers enough flexibility for larger items.
5. The Test Drive Itself
Now comes the most important part: the actual test drive.
Make sure you cover different types of roads and driving conditions to get a complete feel of the car.
A. City Driving
– Take the car through typical city driving conditions, like stop-and-go traffic and tight turns. See how the vehicle handles at low speeds, and pay attention to the brake responsiveness.
– Try parking the car in different spaces—parallel, reverse, and angle parking—to see how easy or difficult it is to maneuver.
B. Highway Driving
– Get on the highway to test the car’s acceleration and handling at higher speeds.
– Use features like cruise control to see how smoothly it operates. Make note of wind noise and how comfortable the vehicle feels over longer distances.
C. Handling and Suspension
– Drive over rough patches of road to evaluate how the suspension absorbs bumps and potholes.
– Try out different steering maneuvers—how tight are the turns, and how stable does the car feel around curves?
D. Weather Considerations
If possible, test the car in diverse weather conditions. Canada’s unpredictable climate can range from heavy snow in the winter to torrential downpours in the summer. These changes drastically affect how the vehicle performs. Look out for:
– Traction on wet or snowy roads
– Stability during high winds
– Visibility in different lighting conditions
6. Post-Test Drive Checklist
Once the test drive is complete, don’t rush your decision.
Take time to sit in the car, reflect, and discuss your experience with anyone who joined you.
A. Review Your Notes
Look over the notes you took during the test drive. How did the vehicle perform in critical areas? Does it meet your expectations in terms of comfort, performance, and features?
B. Ask Follow-Up Questions
– What’s included in the price, and are there additional costs for accessories, winter tires, or rust-proofing?
– What warranties are offered, and how are they handled across provinces?
C. Consider the Dealership’s Reputation
If you’re test-driving from a dealership, take their customer service into account. Are they transparent and easy to work with? This will be important down the line for maintenance and repairs.
7. Making The Final Decision
Once you’ve gone through the test drive process and gathered all your information, you’ll be in a better position to make your final choice.
Remember, purchasing a car is a significant investment, and a thorough test drive helps ensure you’re making the right decision.
Don’t hesitate to schedule another test drive or compare multiple models if you’re still unsure.
Driving To The End
Test driving a car in Canada can feel like a complex process, but with the right approach, it becomes a smooth and informative experience.
Whether you’re navigating icy roads in Alberta or city streets in Toronto, the test drive is your chance to confirm that your vehicle will meet all your needs.
Make the most of it by being prepared, thorough, and critical.
Happy driving!