The Best Time to Test Drive a Car: Tips and Strategies
Buying a car is a significant investment, and test driving before making a purchase decision is a crucial step. Choosing the right time to test drive can significantly enhance your experience and potentially secure better deals. Below, we delve into the optimal times for testing a car, as well as other important factors to consider.
Weekdays vs. Weekends
One of the most common strategies is to visit a dealership on a weekday, preferably in the morning. Weekdays tend to have fewer customers, which translates to a more relaxed and comprehensive test drive experience. Dealership staff are also often more attentive and patient, allowing you to explore a car in greater detail. However, if you prefer a weekend visit, it's worth considering the time of day you choose and whether you can also take advantage of the shorter waiting periods during off-peak times.
The End of the Month or Quarter
Salespeople often have quotas to meet, and the closer you are to the end of the month or quarter, the more likely you are to secure better deals and more flexibility. During these periods, dealerships may offer promotions or discounts to close sales and meet their goals.
Sales Events and Holidays
Specific sales events, particularly holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, or Black Friday, can present excellent opportunities. During these periods, dealerships may offer special promotions, discounts, or lease deals. These events are ideal for finding great deals and potentially negotiating further reductions in price.
Weather Considerations
If you're considering a vehicle for specific weather conditions, such as an SUV for winter, testing the car in those conditions can be significantly beneficial. This ensures that the vehicle performs as expected in various weather scenarios, which is crucial for your satisfaction and safety.
Personal Readiness
Ultimately, the best time to test drive a car is when you feel fully prepared to make a decision. Ensure that you have done thorough research and know what features and attributes you are looking for in a vehicle. This preparation will enhance your test drive experience and help you make a more informed decision.
Interestingly, research has shown that the optimal times to take a driving test vary. For instance, between 7 PM and 9 PM has the highest average pass rate of 65.4%, while the worst option is between 11 AM and 1 PM with a rate of 44.2%. For new drivers, the best times are 7-8 PM and 10-11 AM, with pass rates of 70.8% and 60.8%, respectively.
The best time isn't just about the day but also about the moment. Early mornings are often ideal when the DMV inspector isn't yet fatigued or frustrated by a long day of testing. First thing on a Saturday morning is particularly hard to beat; however, this may not be practical for everyone.
Most people fail a driving test because they aren't truly ready, or they are only just at test-standard but fail when the nerves kick in, causing concentration to drop. If you have the choice of time, first thing on a Saturday morning is exceptionally hard to beat, but it's essential to remember that the ongoing skill and competence in driving count just as much as the immediate test.