The Test Drive: Get Comfortable

Once you’ve gotten in, you may be tempted to turn the key and get moving. But take some time to get comfortable first. Practice getting in and out a few times; that low-slung roadster looks great, but breaking your back just to get into the driver’s seat will grow old quickly. Adjust the mirrors, move the seat to a comfortable position, for those of us that are height challenged, this could be a crucial point of comfort.  Take a peek over your left shoulder to check for blind spots, and do a careful audit of the vehicle’s cupholders. These details may seem trivial at first, but you’ll be living with this car for quite a while, and little annoyances add up over time. I remember one on my cars having a cupholder that would only fit a small coffee cup, for those that know me realize that I only know the size Venti! This was a daily complaint on my commute.  

Don’t stop with the physical comforts, either. Take the info/entertainment system for its own test drive. Play with the controls, adjust the radio, try pairing your phone via Bluetooth, if possible, and definitely let the air conditioning run for a bit. A/C is a common problem area on used cars and, regardless of what the seller tells you, it’s almost never a cheap, quick fix. When temps reach 103 degrees you will be thankful you did!

I know the new car smell is overwhelming but remember, this is a big financial commitment, you don't want to find these annoyances after the sale.