Tips for Your Next Test Drive

September 15, 2021 · 3 min read

You may have an idea of the car type you want, but do you know what you want it to drive like? We have some tips for you to look out for on your test drive! Thinking about the following tips should help you find the perfect vehicle for you during the test drive process.

Take a Walk-Around:

Before you get in the vehicle, we recommend taking an outside walk-around of the car. Be sure to check out all of its exterior features and everything it has to offer. You may also want to ask your salesperson if you can move the car to a different location to do so. Doing the walk-around outside of the dealership with less commotion could be very beneficial.

Comfort:

For a lot of people, a car is a long-term purchase so one very important aspect to look at is its comfort level. As the driver, you’ll likely be spending quite a bit of time in this vehicle. So, make sure that its features can be set to your liking. When you first get in the vehicle, be sure to adjust the seat so that you are in a comfortable sitting position. Also, take a look at your mirrors, ensure that they are set to where you are able to see on both sides and behind your vehicle with little to no movement needed from you. Another feature to check for comfort is the steering wheel. The steering wheel position can be very important to your comfort in the vehicle, especially on long drives. So, make sure that it is set to a level and position of your liking.

Test-Drive Distance:

Another tip for your test drive is the length and distance of it. The car may drive perfectly to your liking when you are slowly driving through a parking lot, however, will it still be perfect on a long road trip or main roads and highways? Take the time to drive the vehicle out of the dealership, if possible, test its driving ability on a variety of roadways and especially the most common road types in your area. You will get a better feel for the long-term driving capability of the vehicle when you do so.

Perspective:

Our fourth tip for your test drive is to swap seats with the salesperson. Taking some time to sit in the passenger seat will give you a different perspective of the vehicle and its features. Also, this can help you get a better understanding of how the vehicle drives and what your passengers will be experiencing in the vehicle.

Ask Questions:

Don’t forget to ask questions during your test drive, too! The salesperson is there to help you make the best choice of purchase. However, the test drive is for you, not them, so be sure to ask if you can drive in an area you are comfortable in, if possible.Also, the salesperson will be your expert on the vehicle. They will either already have or be able to find the answers you need. Don’t leave a test drive confused or unsure about aspects of the vehicle. Here are some questions to consider and ask during the test drive process:

What is the gas mileage?
Where is the all-wheel-drive?
What are the different drive modes?
What are the vehicle’s main features?
Where is the gas lever?
Where should I service my vehicle?
How often should I service my vehicle?

We hope these tips can help you get the most out of your next test drive. Good luck on your next car-buying adventure!Follow us on social media:

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Website: jimshorkey.com

Jan 19, 2024

Winter Warriors: The Top 5 reliable SUVs for the PA Winters!

When winter arrives, having a reliable and capable SUV becomes essential for navigating through snow-covered roads and icy conditions. In this blog, we'll explore the top 5 SUVs from Kia, Toyota, Jeep, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Chevy, showcasing their winter-ready features and why they stand out in the chilly season. Kia Sorento: The Kia Sorento is a versatile SUV that excels in winter conditions. Available with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the Sorento provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. With its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features, the Sorento ensures a confident and secure winter driving experience. Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 has long been a favorite for its reliability and practicality. The RAV4 offers an available Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring optimal traction in winter conditions. Its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and Toyota's reputation for durability make the RAV4 a top choice for winter adventures. Jeep Cherokee: Jeep has a strong legacy of off-road capabilities, and the Jeep Cherokee continues that tradition. With available Jeep Active Drive 4x4 systems, the Cherokee conquers winter terrains with ease. Its rugged design, advanced technology features, and impressive towing capacity make it a formidable SUV for winter exploration. Mitsubishi Outlander: The Mitsubishi Outlander stands out for its affordability and practicality, making it an excellent choice for winter driving. With an available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, the Outlander ensures stability and control in challenging conditions. Its spacious interior and third-row seating option make it a family-friendly winter companion. Nissan Rogue: The Nissan Rogue combines a sleek design with winter-ready features. Equipped with an Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, the Rogue adapts to changing road conditions for improved traction. With a comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, and a smooth ride, the Rogue is a well-rounded choice for winter commuters. Chevy Equinox: Chevrolet's Equinox offers a compelling package for winter driving. With an available all-wheel-drive system, the Equinox provides stability and control on snow-covered roads. Its practical design, efficient fuel economy, and advanced safety features make it a dependable SUV for winter journeys. Choosing the right SUV for winter driving involves considering factors such as AWD capabilities, safety features, and overall reliability. The Kia Sorento, Toyota RAV4, Jeep Cherokee, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, and Chevy Equinox showcase the strengths of their respective brands in providing winter-ready SUV options. Whether you prioritize off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, or affordability, these SUVs offer a range of choices to suit your winter driving needs. Stay safe and enjoy the winter season with confidence in your chosen SUV. Click here to view our SUV inventory! https://www.jimshorkey.com/searchnew.aspx

Oct 25, 2023

Discover the Best Fall Activities in Pittsburgh, PA with Your New Vehicle from Jim Shorkey Auto Group

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, fall is a wonderful time to explore Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. With the convenience of a brand-new vehicle from Jim Shorkey Auto Group, you can embark on exciting fall adventures and make the most of this beautiful season. In this blog, we'll share some of the top fall activities you can enjoy in and around Pittsburgh with your new ride! Scenic Drives One of the best ways to experience the stunning fall foliage in Pittsburgh is by taking scenic drives through the city and surrounding countryside. With your new vehicle, you can easily visit places like Allegheny National Forest, Ohiopyle State Park, and Laurel Highlands. These areas offer breathtaking landscapes and picturesque vistas, making them ideal for a leisurely fall drive. Visit a Pumpkin Patch Fall isn't complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Pittsburgh and its neighboring towns have numerous farms and pumpkin patches where you can pick your own pumpkins. Visit Triple B Farms or Simmons Farms! Load up your new vehicle with your selected pumpkins and enjoy some classic fall decorating and carving when you return home. 3. Fall Festivals Pittsburgh hosts a variety of fall festivals and events that cater to all interests. Whether you're into art, music, or local cuisine, you'll find something to enjoy. From the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival to Asian Lantern Festival, these events are worth attending and are easily accessible with your new vehicle. With your new vehicle from Jim Shorkey Auto Group, you're all set to make the most of the fall season in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. From scenic drives to apple picking, hiking, and enjoying cultural events, there's no shortage of activities to keep you busy. So, get behind the wheel and embark on unforgettable fall adventures in the City of Bridges. Happy autumn! Visit JimShorkey.com to view all of our locations and brands that we offer!

Oct 11, 2023

How to Prepare Your Car for Winter: Winterization Tips

As winter approaches, it's essential to prepare your vehicle for the cold weather ahead. Freezing temperatures, icy roads, and snowfall can make driving more challenging and even dangerous. To ensure your safety and the optimal performance of your vehicle during the winter months, follow these essential winterization tips. Winter Tires: The Key to Traction Winter tires are designed to excel in cold weather conditions, providing better grip on icy and snow-covered roads. Here's what you need to know: Invest in a set of four winter tires. Using a mix of winter and all-season tires can affect your car's balance and handling. Check the tread depth on your winter tires. Make sure it's at least 6/32 inches for reliable performance. Maintain proper tire pressure by checking and adjusting it regularly. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so ensure it matches the manufacturer's recommendations. Antifreeze and Coolant: Protecting Your Engine Antifreeze, also known as coolant, is vital for maintaining your engine's temperature during frigid conditions. Take these steps: Ensure your vehicle's antifreeze mixture is suitable for winter. A 50/50 blend of antifreeze and water is generally recommended to prevent freezing. Check for any leaks in the cooling system. Leaking coolant can lead to engine overheating, which can be especially problematic in cold weather. Emergency Kit: Be Prepared for the Unexpected It's always wise to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances, especially during winter. Assemble an emergency kit for your vehicle, including: Blankets or warm clothing Non-perishable snacks and water A flashlight and extra batteries Jumper cables Shovel and ice scraper First aid kit Road flares A basic toolkit Portable phone charger Battery Check: Ensure Reliable Starts Cold weather can be tough on your vehicle's battery. To avoid being stranded in the cold, have your battery checked for: Voltage and charging capacity Signs of corrosion on the terminals Connection tightness Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid: Maintain Visibility Clear visibility is crucial when driving in winter weather. Check and replace your windshield wipers if they are worn, and use winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing on the windshield. Winterizing your vehicle is a smart investment in safety and reliability during the cold months. These simple yet effective winterization tips will help you navigate winter roads with confidence and peace of mind, ensuring that you're prepared for whatever challenges the season may bring. Stay safe and enjoy your winter adventures!

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