Many people rely on online reviews to tell them what they need to know about a car before buying it. This is a great step to take, but things often go sideways when they see the car. Excitement often takes over and this causes many people to not focus on the little things in the car. It is these little things that become annoyances once you take ownership of the car. Here are just a few things you should check to avoid these annoyances and frustration.
Lumbar Support
If you are going to be driving the car for long periods, you need to ensure it provides adequate lumbar support. The level of support you get and how the seat feels once you are in it is very subjective and this is why you should try it for yourself. If there is adjustable lumbar support, test out the feature. Pay close attention to your height because the support might come in too low if you are taller than average. If you regularly drive with someone on the passenger seat, take them along and see what they have to say about the support.
Car Dimensions
This one sounds obvious, but many people do not consider whether the car they buy will fit in their driveway or garage. The length, width, and height should be on top of your mind when choosing a car. Trucks and SUVs have become bigger over the past few years while garages have not. Your new Escalade will likely not fit where your saloon car used to.
Interior Features
It is common for car buyers to sit on the driver’s seat, see how it feels and test the steering wheel and pedals. The one thing many people forget is to check the interior features the car comes with. Unless you are buying a car that is older than 15 years, the car you are considering should come with a considerable number of interior features.
Some features to look for include wireless and USB phone charging, seat materials, the infotainment system, and the placement of the buttons in the car. As the driver you should be able to reach everything without straining, especially when driving.
Because you will likely start the search for your next car online, go with dealers who provide as much information about a car’s exterior features as possible. Dealers like Carworld provide not only a detailed list of these features but also photographs so you can see the interior beforehand.
Sound System
This is technically part of the interior system, but it requires its own section. A good sound system is important for those who value music quality and those who use their vehicles a lot. To ensure it is adequate, play some music while on the test drive. Doing so will help you learn how different parts and aspects of the car (road noise, windows, etc.) will affect the sound when the car is on the move.
Beyond financing and choosing the right car model, there are smaller details you should pay attention to when buying a car. These smaller details will make a huge difference in how you feel about the car a few years down the line.