With so many vehicle models on the market to choose from, needless to say, one should do proper research and test-drive different models before deciding on what car to buy. After all, decisions should not be made solely based on first impressions, and the look of cars can often be deceiving. It is particularly important to keep a cool head at auto shows, where car salespeople keep talking up the features and functions of their products. We've previously discussed what you need to consider when buying a new car.
In today's article, our Kwiksure experts will share the things to look out for when test-driving a vehicle.
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Step 1. Choose your car |
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Step 2. Test drive |
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Step 3. Car inspection |
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Vehicle examination in Hong Kong: Requirements and Procedures |
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Step 4: Sign a contract |
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Step 5: Secure car insurance |
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Step 6: Transfer of registration |
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Step 7: Closing |
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Is it easy to get on and off the car? Do you have to bend over so as not to bump your head? Are the front seats comfortable? What about the back seats? Can you adjust the steering wheel angle to suit your height? Are the pedals adjustable? These are important questions to ask. After all, you will be driving your car for a number of years, and seats that are not comfortable may well affect your driving performance and even slow down your reactions.
First of all, you should pay special attention to whether the vehicle has been involved in a major collision, and the telltale signs include whether a door has been replaced, whether the color of the body is uniform, whether the hood or the trunk lid has been repainted, etc. However, not every problem can be discovered with the naked eye - issues like oil leaking from the gearbox, water entering the engine, major collisions, rust on the chassis, etc., can easily escape detection by the average driver. So, even if there is no apparent problem discovered when viewing or test-driving a car, you should still have it inspected (including its underbody) by a professional garage if you are buying a used car. That said, you get what you pay for, so if your budget is only HKD $20,000 to $30,000, you can expect there will be some small defects, such as a few minor scratches. Therefore, when purchasing a used car, it is best to ask in advance or pay attention to whether words like "any inspection welcome" appear in the car sale ad because not every seller is prepared to have their vehicle subjected to such thorough inspections.
Communicate with the seller before the test drive, and decide what route you want to take during the test drive (of course, it must be reasonable). For example, if you drive mostly on open roads, you can take your test drive on a highway. If you frequently go off-road, you should see how the car handles uphill roads (if possible). You should also check the following items:
For example, can you easily connect your phone via Bluetooth? Is the information screen easy to use? And what about the navigation system and steering wheel controls?
If the test drive goes well, you may want to request a car history report and ask a mechanic to inspect the car for you. If you are not sure you have done the first test drive right, you can make another appointment and arrange for a second test drive. All in all, the most important thing is to think carefully before a formal purchase. In addition to the matters to be dealt with during the test-drive stage, you also need to secure either third-party or comprehensive insurance for the car, and you may also need to renew the vehicle license.
Related article - Vehicle examination in Hong Kong: Requirements and Procedures
For more new car vs. used car comparisons or other topics related to auto insurance, contact Kwiksure today for unbiased advice and a free quote.
Kwiksure has over 20 years of experience in the car insurance industry, comparing quotes from over 60 insurers in Hong Kong. Use our online quotation tool now to get a free car insurance quote!
The above information is for reference only. Kwiksure takes no responsibility for the accuracy and timeliness of the information. For the coverage, mode of compensation, benefit limit and premium levels of any specific insurance plan, please refer to the relevant policy terms.
Eric is a content creator for Kwiksure, responsible for writing articles on various topics such as cars, travel, domestic helpers, etc., striving to provide readers with detailed and practical information.
With over 20 years of experience in the media industry and driving, Eric has worked for several newspapers, magazines, and online media outlets. Apart from his passion for writing, he also enjoys the pleasure that driving brings. On average, he drives over 40,000 kilometers per year.
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