Jun 11, 2024

Is it time to slip behind the wheel of a new Toyota? Lucky for you, the team here at Simi Valley Toyota is ready to help match you with the perfect new or pre-owned vehicle for the right price. Whether you’d like to start your search online or right here at our dealership, shopping for your new Toyota is easier than ever before! And with some simple tips and tricks, you can guarantee your experience will be enjoyable here at Simi Valley Toyota! Take a peek below to find 5 things you should know before test driving your new or pre-owned ride. Then schedule a test drive or stop into the dealership to start your purchase process today!

Simi Valley Toyota’s Tips For Scheduling Your Test Drive:

Bring proof of insurance and your license. 

  • This might seem obvious but you generally need proof of license and insurance before you’re allowed to take the vehicle out on the road. Making sure you have this information makes the process run smoother. Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer for their documentation of ownership and the vehicle papers.
    Ask for the records. 

  • If you’re considering a used vehicle, it’s important to know everything about the vehicle’s past life. That includes things as small as maintenance reports to bigger things like accident reports, and everything in between. The more you know, the less you’ll be surprised if something isn’t working properly.

    Do your research. 

  • You might love the way a vehicle looks, but you could hate it the second you get inside and see what it offers. To save yourself a trip, do some research about the vehicle, its trim levels, features that it offers, etc. Then when you’re test driving the vehicle you can test these features out, ask about them, or even notice if they aren’t working properly.

Test Everything. 

  • Regardless if you buy used or new, there is always a possibility of features not working properly. A test drive is not just about driving the vehicle is about learning the features, deciding if it’s comfortable, making sure everything is working. Assure yourself that the vehicle is worth the investment. If you find issues, be sure to point them out and even ask about a price reduction. 

Test drive multiple vehicles: 

  • It’s not a bad idea to test drive more than one vehicle, it is a way for you to compare similar vehicles and see what other vehicles offer that yours might not. It also allows you to have options if your dream ride wasn’t what you expected!