We have no association with Parramatta Motor Group selling Nissan in Parramatta and in no way represent them.
Useful tips about test driving
Check the boot space
Don’t forget to have a look in the boot! Ideally, if you have a golf bag or a stroller than needs to fit in there, and you are not 100% sure it will fit; you should take it with you and make sure. Imagine the embarrassment if your stuff won't fit!!
Is safety important?
Safety has become increasingly important to car buyers over the last 10 to 15 years. Airbags are important in the event of a crash, but make sure you consider preventive safety features as well. FCAI lists all cars sold with ESC available. ESC is possibly the most important advance in safety since the introduction of seatbelts.
How does it handle?
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.
Sounds
Wind and road noise can impact on your ability to hear others in the car during conversations. Switch off the radio when you get into the vehicle. Around suburban streets, most cars 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 is by way of comparing different cars. Have a conversation at freeway speed and compare it to your existing car, or a competing make or model to the car you are testing.
Remember to turn the radio on again at some point before end of the drive to check the quality of the sound. A lot of people like to bring their favourite CD and hear how it sounds in different cars.
