We have no association with O`Connor Auto Group selling Nissan in Bathurst and in no way represent them.
Useful tips about test driving
Pop the boot
It is important you remember to check the luggage space. It may sound unbelievable, but people do buy cars and completely forget to check that their baby’s pram fits. In some cases, they have to sell the car just for that reason!
Safety
Your car's safety performance in a crash could mean the difference between life and death for you, your passengers and other roads users. How Safe Is Your Car is a website where you can find information of how most cars rate in crash tests. It also explains ESC. ESC is short for Electronic Stability Control, a new safety technology that helps drivers to avoid crashes by reducing the danger of skidding.
Driving and handling
See how the car handles when you push it a little around corners. Oversteer or understeer is usually the result (unless it comes with Electronic Stability Control). It’s better to know how it handles before you buy – especially if you are used to a car that reacts in a certain way and you feel comfortable handling it. Does the front end dip excessively under a hard stop? Try a couple of times. If the vehicle has ABS you will feel some pulsing. Brake hard while turning, and the system will kick in. If the pulsing is pronounced the ABS system may not be quite as good as it should be.
Noise considerations
Road noise can be annoying - especially if you do a lot of driving. Pay attention and turn the radio off. Around suburban streets, most vehicles will sound quiet but what is the engine and wind noise like on the highway or freeway? The best way for most people to check this aspect is by way of comparing. Have a conversation at freeway speed and compare to your existing car, or a competitor to the car you are testing.
Remember to switch the radio on at some point to check the quality of the sound. Many people like to bring their favourite CD and compare how it sounds in different cars.
