When you’re looking for a new car, one of the most exciting steps in the process is the test drive. It gives you the opportunity to get behind the wheel, feel how the car drives and assess whether it’s a good fit for your needs. For those considering a new Ford, test driving a vehicle is a very important part of making an informed decision. However, it’s easy to overlook certain aspects during a test drive that could be important for long term satisfaction with your purchase. To make the most of your test drive experience, it’s important to have a comprehensive checklist. This guide provides you with a New Ford Car Test Drive Checklist to ensure that you don’t miss any important details when evaluating your next vehicle. Click Here to get started on your journey to finding the perfect Ford for you.
Do Your Research Before the Test Drive
Before you head to the dealership, it’s a good idea to do some research on the specific Ford model you’re interested in. This can help you ask the right questions during the test drive and make sure you’re choosing a vehicle that fits your needs.
- Understand the Models and Features: Research the different trims, optional features and packages available for the Ford model you’re interested in. Understanding the basics beforehand will help you focus on the specific features you value most.
- Look at Reviews and Ratings: Check out professional reviews and customer feedback to get a sense of the car’s performance, reliability, and any potential issues.
- Set a Budget: Knowing your budget can help you focus on test-driving models within your price range. Keep in mind that additional costs such as taxes, fees, and insurance may impact your decision.
By preparing beforehand, you’ll make the test drive more productive and enjoyable.
Exterior Evaluation: First Impressions Matter
When you arrive at the dealership, the first thing you’ll see is the exterior of the vehicle. This is your first chance to gauge the overall design, aesthetics and condition of the Ford model you’re considering.
- Visual Appeal: Is the car’s design attractive to you? Whether you’re drawn to the sleek lines of a sedan or the rugged look of an SUV, your first impression of the car’s exterior matters.
- Build Quality: Check for any visible dents, scratches, or signs of poor craftsmanship. Even if you’re test driving a new vehicle, this inspection can help you spot any imperfections.
- Paint and Finish: Make sure the paint job looks even and smooth. Uneven paint can be a sign of subpar manufacturing or damage during transit.
- Tire Condition: Inspect the tires for tread depth and signs of wear. The tires should have sufficient tread, as this will impact the vehicle’s performance and safety.
A vehicle’s exterior plays a key role in your overall satisfaction, so be sure to evaluate it thoroughly.
Interior Evaluation: Comfort and Features
Once you’re inside the Ford, your next task is to evaluate the comfort and interior features. After all, you’ll spend a lot of time behind the wheel, so it’s important that the interior suits your needs.
’ll spend a lot of time behind the wheel, so it’s important that the interior suits your needs.
- Seat Comfort: Sit in the front seats and adjust them to your preferred position. Are they comfortable? Can you easily reach the pedals and steering wheel? If you’re planning on taking long drives, comfort should be a top priority.
- Interior Space: Check the legroom and headroom in both the front and back seats. Make sure the car provides enough space for all passengers.
- Dashboard and Controls: Assess how user-friendly the dashboard is. Are the controls intuitive and easy to reach? Test out the infotainment system, air conditioning and other features to ensure they function smoothly.
- Material Quality: Evaluate the materials used for the seats, dashboard, and door panels. Do they feel durable and high-quality or do they seem cheap or prone to wear?
Comfort and ease of use are crucial elements of the test drive, so make sure to pay close attention to these aspects.
Engine and Performance: How Does It Drive?
Arguably the most important part of the test drive is experiencing how the car drives. You’ll want to get a feel for the engine’s responsiveness, handling and overall driving dynamics.
- Engine Performance: Accelerate and see how quickly the car responds. Does it provide enough power for your needs? The automobile should feel strong enough to manage your driving habits whether you’re on the highway or in the city.
- Transmission: Pay attention to how smooth the transmission is when shifting. Is the shift between gears smooth or do you notice any jerking or hesitation?
- Handling and Steering: Take the car through a series of turns and winding roads. Is the steering responsive and easy to maneuver, or does it feel loose or stiff?
- Braking: Test the brakes by pressing gently and then more firmly to see how responsive they are. The brakes should feel stable and strong, with no pulsing or delay.
The engine, transmission and overall performance will impact your driving experience, so it’s important to assess these features carefully.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind
Safety is a critical aspect of any vehicle, and it’s particularly important for new Ford cars, as they come equipped with a variety of advanced safety features.
- Airbags: Ensure that the vehicle has airbags in all the appropriate locations, including the front, side, and curtain airbags.
- Crash Test Ratings: Review the car’s crash test ratings from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Driver Assistance Systems: Check for features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These systems can add an extra layer of protection especially for long trips or city driving.
- Parking Assistance: If you plan on using your vehicle in tight spaces, check for parking sensors or a backup camera. These features can make parking much easier and safer.
Be sure to take note of the safety features and consider how they fit into your driving habits and peace of mind.
Test the Infotainment System
Modern Ford vehicles come equipped with sophisticated infotainment systems that can be an important part of your driving experience.
- Connectivity: Test Bluetooth connectivity by pairing your phone and playing music. Check if the connection is stable and easy to use.
- Navigation: If the vehicle has built-in navigation, test it to see how quickly it responds to address changes and whether the display is easy to read.
- Voice Commands: Try using the voice command features to see how accurate and responsive they are. This can be particularly helpful for hands-free operation.
- Touchscreen Usability: Evaluate the responsiveness of the touchscreen. It should be quick to react, and the menu system should be intuitive.
An intuitive infotainment system can make your driving experience much more enjoyable, so take time to test it thoroughly.
Evaluate the Ride Quality
While performance is key, the ride quality is equally important. A smooth ride enhances comfort during long trips and everyday driving.
- Suspension: Pay attention to how the car handles bumps in the road. Is the ride smooth, or do you feel every pothole and bump? A good suspension system will absorb road imperfections and provide a more comfortable ride.
- Noise Levels: Listen for road noise, engine noise, and wind noise. A well-insulated cabin should keep noise levels to a minimum.
- Vibration: Does the car feel stable at high speeds or do you notice vibrations through the steering wheel or seats?
Assessing the ride quality will ensure you’re making a well rounded decision about your new Ford.
Conclusion
A test drive is an essential step in finding the perfect new Ford vehicle for your needs. By following this New Ford Car Test Drive Checklist, you can evaluate every aspect of the vehicle, from its performance to its safety features, comfort and technology. Whether you’re considering a Ford sedan, SUV, or truck, making sure that the vehicle meets your standards is crucial for long-term satisfaction. With a thorough test drive and careful consideration, you’ll be well on your way to driving home in your ideal Ford.
