GTA Test Drive Tips: What Markham Drivers Need To Know

Selecting the right car can be challenging for many in Markham.

One essential fact to know is that a test drive is key to finding your perfect match.

Our blog will guide you through making the most of your vehicle test drive, ensuring you know exactly what to look for.

Get ready for insights from Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette that will turn you into a confident buyer.

Key Takeaways

Before test driving at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, do your research online and bring a friend for extra insight.
Check the vehicle inside and out, including tires, signals, and seat belts, to ensure everything works well before driving.
Get familiar with the car’s features, like adjusting seats, testing technology, and driver-assist systems, before taking it on the road.
Test drive the car under different conditions to see how it handles acceleration, braking, and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Winter test drives require special attention to heating systems and brakes to stay safe on icy roads.

How to Prepare for Your Test Drive

Getting ready for your test drive is crucial to making the right decision about your next vehicle. At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, Ontario, we recommend doing a bit of homework on the models you’re interested in and bringing along a trusted companion for their insight.

This approach not only sharpens your focus but also ensures that you won’t miss out on noting how the car feels and functions during the drive. Our team of automotive professionals is here to guide you through each step, making sure that when you get behind the wheel, you feel prepared and confident.

Whether it’s exploring sedan options like the Chevrolet Malibu or experiencing the luxury of a Buick Enclave SUV, we have a wide range of vehicles waiting for you to discover. Every test drive at our dealership comes with expert advice specifically to meet your needs and expectations.

Do your research

Before you set foot in a car for a test drive, especially here at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, Ontario, doing your homework is key. Start by exploring options online and reading up on vehicle history reports.

These steps give you insight into which vehicles have a clean record and are expected to perform well. Look into different models and trims available in Canada to find what suits your needs best.

It’s also wise to understand the value of features like blind-spot monitoring systems, Apple CarPlay compatibility, or manual versus automatic transmission before deciding. Checking out reviews from other drivers can shed light on how reliable certain models are over time.

This prep work ensures you step onto our lot informed and ready to make decisions that align with what’s important for your driving experience in the Greater Toronto Area.

Bring a friend

Bringing a friend or family member on your test drive offers many advantages. A second set of eyes can catch things you might miss, such as how the vehicle handles blind spots or if all turn signals are working properly.

Your companion can also give you their thoughts on the car’s comfort and features, helping you decide if it suits your needs. It’s always better to have that extra support and opinion during such an important decision-making process.

Your friend can assist in checking crucial parts of the vehicle, too. They might notice something off with the tires or if there’s unusual noise when testing the suspension system. This is essential for ensuring that both new and pre-owned vehicles at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette meet our high standards—and yours.

Having someone with you contributes to a more enjoyable and efficient test-driving experience, making sure every aspect of the car is evaluated before making your final choice.

Walkaround inspection

A walkaround inspection is a vital step before test-driving any vehicle. It helps find any issues that could affect your decision to buy.

Here’s how you can conduct an effective walkaround inspection at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette.

Check for exterior damage. Look for dents, scratches, or rust on the car’s body. Make sure the paint is consistent, and there are no gaps in the panels.
Inspect the tires for wear and tear. Ensure they’re inflated correctly and have even tread wear. This can indicate how well the vehicle has been maintained.
Test all lights and signals. This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they’re fully operational.
Examine the windshield and windows for cracks or chips. Minor issues here can turn into bigger problems later.
Open the trunk to assess its space and condition. Check if it’s clean and if there are signs of leaks or water damage.
Look under the vehicle for any signs of leaks from oil or other fluids, which could indicate engine or transmission problems.
Inside the car, inspect seat belts by pulling them to ensure they lock properly and retract smoothly.
Test all door locks, window controls, and mirror adjustments to confirm they work without issues.
Sit in the driver’s seat to assess comfort and visibility from all angles, including potential blind spots.
Finally, interact with the infotainment system along with other technology features like cruise control to guarantee everything runs as it should.

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, we encourage all our customers to take these steps during their walkaround inspection because we stand behind every used car, SUV, and trucks, including certified pre-owned vehicles we sell.

Our team of automotive professionals is here to assist you through every step of ensuring your next vehicle meets our high standards—and yours, too!

Start using the car (before actually driving it)

Getting to know your potential new car inside and out is key before taking it for a spin.

Here at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s features to ensure a confident test drive experience.

Adjust the driver’s seat to find your perfect driving position, making sure you’re comfortable and in control.
Set up the rear-view and side mirrors for optimum visibility, ensuring no blind spots are present while driving.
Explore the dashboard and locate essential controls such as the headlights, windshield wipers, and turn signals.
Pair your smartphone with the car’s infotainment system to check its connectivity features and ease of use.
Test every button and switch to confirm they’re working correctly; this includes windows, door locks, sunroof controls, if available, and even the dome light.
Listen to the sound system at various volumes to gauge its quality and adjust settings like bass and treble according to your preferences.
Enter destinations into the GPS (if equipped) to evaluate their user-friendliness and accuracy.
Check climate control functions not just for comfort but also to ensure quick windshield-defogging capabilities during colder days in Markham.
Familiarize yourself with safety features such as airbag locations and emergency brake assist, and if available, practice using driver-assist technologies like rear-camera displays or parking assist in an open area of our lot.
Finally, review storage spaces like glove compartments, center consoles, cupholders, and trunk size for practicality based on your needs.

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, Ontario, we stand by each vehicle in our inventory for its reliability and craftsmanship quality. Our team is here to walk you through these steps and answer any questions about financing options or warranties that will give you peace of mind with your purchase decision from us!

Drive it like you normally would

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we always remind our customers to handle the car as if it’s already theirs during a test drive. This means obeying traffic laws, using turn signals, and adjusting your speed to match road conditions.

Feel how the vehicle accelerates on highways and maneuvers in tight spaces. Notice if shifting gears feel smooth and whether the pedals are comfortable under your feet—essential checks for both manual transmission lovers and automatic drivers.

Pay attention to how the car responds to different driving scenarios, such as stopping quickly or driving through busy streets. It’s crucial for you, especially if winter driving is part of your daily life here in Markham.

Your safety and comfort on even slippery roads matter to us. So, testing features like brake efficiency and heating systems give you confidence in your potential new vehicle. With each test drive at our dealership, we aim to ensure you leave feeling excited and confident about making an informed decision without any doubts about performance or safety features.

Tips for Winter Test Drives

Winter test drives need extra care. Check the heating system to make sure you stay warm. Test the brakes on icy roads for safety. At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, we want you to be safe and comfortable while driving, no matter the season.

Check the heating system

Turning on the heating system during your test drive is crucial, especially here in Markham, where winters can be harsh. At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we always ensure vehicles are ready for the cold by checking that they have enough antifreeze.

This keeps the heating working properly even in freezing weather. We recommend drivers do the same to avoid surprises when temperatures drop.

Testing brakes on slippery roads also tells you a lot about a car’s safety features and handling. Our team believes safe driving habits start with confidence in your vehicle’s condition, including its ability to handle winter conditions safely.

Whether it’s a brand-new SUV or a pre-loved sedan, we inspect every aspect to give you peace of mind on every drive.

Test the brakes on slippery roads

Testing the brakes on slippery roads is a critical step during a winter test drive. My team at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette always reminds our customers that stopping distances increase on ice and snow.

You must gently press the brake pedal to avoid skidding, especially in colder weather when roads are slick. It’s also smart to practice pumping the brakes if your vehicle doesn’t have anti-lock braking systems (ABS).

This technique can prevent tires from locking up and help maintain control.

We also encourage drivers to stay alert and watch the road closely for icy patches or snow build-up. Our experts recommend coming in for a test drive of vehicles equipped with winter safety features like ABS and traction control, which improve stability on treacherous roads.

These technologies, available in models like the Ford Focus or Honda CR-V Canadian trims, make driving safer in Markham’s winters by improving your car’s grip on the road and reducing stopping distances even under less-than-ideal conditions.

Join us at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette for a safe winter test drive experience that will leave you feeling confident about handling Ontario’s challenging weather conditions.

Practice safe driving habits

Winter in Markham brings its own set of challenges on the road. To stay safe, always keep your gas tank full and steer clear of cruise control when facing wet, snowy, or icy conditions.

Expect slower traffic and less visibility. This means driving at careful speeds and keeping a keen eye out, which is essential for avoiding collisions and ensuring you’re not caught off-guard by slippery surfaces or unexpected obstacles.

At our dealership, Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we stress the importance of using winter tires during these colder months. They provide better traction for stopping, turning, and moving forward on slick roads.

Make sure to practice braking safely on ice or snow-covered surfaces; this can be a lifesaver in emergency situations where quick reactions are needed. Safety comes first – if the weather looks too severe, it’s best to postpone your trip unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Our team believes that reacquainting yourself with winter driving techniques each year is crucial to avoid accidents and keep all drivers safer on the road.

Now, let’s talk about what you should focus on during your test drive.

What to Look for During the Test Drive

During your test drive, pay close attention to how the car feels and sounds. It’s our goal at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette to ensure you find a vehicle that meets and exceeds your expectations in performance and comfort.

Assess the driver’s seat

Check the driver’s seat carefully during your test drive. Ensure you have enough space for your head, hips, and legs. It’s essential that you feel comfortable with the driving position - not too low or too high.

Our team at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham understands how vital interior space is for drivers and front passengers alike. We guide our clients to consider legroom and overall comfort to make their driving experience enjoyable.

Test the seat adjustments to find your perfect position quickly. Look for models offering easy-to-use controls that allow you to adjust seating positions effortlessly, catering specifically to Canadian trims and models using metric measurements for precision.

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we believe finding a car with a driver’s seat that suits you perfectly is key to enjoying your vehicle long-term. Let us help you explore options to ensure a match made in automotive heaven right here in Markham, Ontario.

Check visibility

Adjust your mirrors before hitting the road. It ensures you see everything around your vehicle, keeping you safe. This step is crucial for avoiding blind spots and making sure other drivers see you, too.

Confirm that all lights—headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights- work perfectly. Proper lighting helps others on the road notice you, especially during early mornings or late evenings.

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, Ontario, our team always reminds drivers about these important checks.

Next up is examining the car’s craftsmanship and build quality to make sure everything looks and feels right inside out.

Examine craftsmanship and build quality

Check the car’s craftsmanship and build quality during your test drive. Look at how well the parts fit together. Good cars have doors, hoods, and trunk lids that align perfectly. Feel the materials inside; they should be durable and pleasant to touch.

Notice any squeaks or rattles as you drive; a quiet ride often means a well-made vehicle. At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we pride ourselves on offering vehicles that meet high standards of craftsmanship.

Next, tap into the vehicle’s technology features.

Utilize driver-assist features and technology

After examining a vehicle’s craftsmanship and build quality, it’s crucial to turn your attention to the driver-assist features and technology available. Our team at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette encourages you to explore these innovative options during your test drive.

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Technology is not just a trend; it’s a leap toward safer driving experiences on Markham roads. These systems include lane departure warnings that alert you when drifting off course, automatic emergency braking that activates in critical situations, and remote parking assistance for those tight parking spots.

During your visit, ask our salesperson to demonstrate how these features work in real time. Test the lane-keeping assistance by experiencing how the car gently steers itself back into the correct lane or feels the security of adaptive cruise control, making highway drives less tiring.

Each ADAS feature is designed with your safety in mind and is continually updated with new information to ensure peak performance. By understanding and using these technologies, you’re ensuring a safer drive for yourself and contributing to safer roads in Markham.

Our selection includes vehicles equipped with cutting-edge safety features suited for Canadian drivers, so you can find one that meets all your needs at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette.

Explore Your Options with Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette in Markham, Ontario, we are proud to offer a wide selection of new and used vehicles. Our team works hard to find the perfect car for you, making sure it meets all your needs.

New and Used Vehicle Inventory

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, our team prides itself on offering a vast selection of new vehicles, including the latest cars, SUVs, and trucks customized to your driving needs.

Our Markham dealership showcases top models with Canadian trims, ensuring you find the perfect vehicle that meets your expectations. From the fuel-efficient RAV4 Hybrid to durable trucks equipped for any task, we have something for everyone.

Plus, with GM Preferred Pricing, shoppers can enjoy discounts on their favourite makes and models.

Exploring our used car inventory opens up opportunities for drivers to secure quality vehicles at competitive prices. Each pre-owned vehicle undergoes thorough inspections by our certified technicians to ensure reliability and safety.

Shoppers can also take advantage of CarFax reports to add peace of mind before making their purchase. Whether you value luxurious craftsmanship or high-tech features in a vehicle, our diverse used car selection promises options that align with your lifestyle.

Next up, learn how easy it is to value your trade at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette.

Value Your Trade

Our team at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette knows how valuable your current vehicle is to you. We offer a no-obligation evaluation for your trade-in. This means you can find out what your car is worth without any pressure to sell it.

Our experts use the latest market data and consider every detail of your vehicle, from tire wear to the condition of the tail lights, ensuring you get a fair estimate.

Once we determine the value of your trade-in, we’ll discuss all your options. You might want to explore our new and used vehicle inventory or maybe pre-qualify for financing on a newer model.

Our special offers and incentives for Chevrolet vehicles make it an exciting time to upgrade. Trading in could reduce the total cost of your next purchase, making that dream car more attainable than ever before.

You can count on Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette; our goal is to help you drive away happy with a deal that suits both your desires and budget.

Pre-Qualify for Financing

At Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, we make it easy for you to explore your financing options before you even set foot on our lot. With our pre-qualified credit applications, customers can discover what financing plans or rebates are available to them, including GM Preferred Pricing and Chevy Specials.

This step ensures that when you find the perfect car at our dealership, the process of purchasing it is smooth and stress-free.

We understand the importance of finding a vehicle that fits both your needs and your budget. That’s why we offer convenient access to apply for pre-qualification online. This tool allows you to get an idea of what financial terms might look like for your new or used car purchase without any guesswork.

Prepare yourself with knowledge about your financing choices so that when the time comes to discuss details with us or your insurance agent regarding coverage options for uninsured drivers or other liabilities, you’ll feel ready and informed.

Conclusion: Trust Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette for Your Next Vehicle Purchase

Ready to steer your way onto the roads of Markham with confidence?

Our team at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette is here to guide you through every turn. From preparing for that first test drive to mastering winter driving, we share our knowledge because we want you to be safe and happy on the road.

With a selection of top Canadian trims and models, finding your perfect ride in our inventory is exciting. All finance and lease options are customized to fit your needs, making it easy for you on approved credit.

Choose us for a smooth journey towards owning your next vehicle.

Let’s hit the road together!

FAQs

1. What do I need to bring for a test drive at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette?

You must have a valid driver’s license and car insurance. Our team will guide you through the process, ensuring you meet all requirements for a safe test drive experience in Markham.

2. Can I test drive a used car at Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette?

Absolutely! We offer an extensive selection of quality used cars. Each comes with a warranty to give you peace of mind on your purchase.

3. How can I ensure the vehicle is right for me during the test drive?

Pay attention to how the car handles, including gears shifting smoothly and all features working correctly, such as high beams and run-flat tires if applicable. Feel free to ask our experts any questions during your drive.

4. What happens if there’s a minor accident during my test drive?

Our vehicles are insured, but it’s crucial to avoid negligent driving. In case of a fender bender, inform us immediately so we can handle it efficiently.

5. Why choose Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette for my next vehicle purchase?

As Vice President of Operations, I’m proud of our team’s commitment to providing top-notch service and expert advice on all things automotive. Trust us for your next vehicle; we’re here in Markarkham, ready to assist you every step of the way.

About Bessie Vavaroutsos

Bessie Vavaroutsos is the Vice President of Operations for Old Mill Cadillac Chevrolet Buick GMC and Eastside Chevrolet Buick GMC Corvette, two prestigious GM dealerships located in Ontario's Greater Toronto Area. With a family legacy in the automotive industry dating back to 1984 when her father purchased Old Mill Pontiac, Bessie has been immersed in the car business for over 35 years. She has 20 years of professional experience, but her involvement stretches back to her childhood.

Bessie is passionate about delivering exceptional customer experiences. She recognizes that purchasing a vehicle is the second most significant investment many people make after buying a home. She is committed to treating every customer like a guest in her home and ensuring they have all the information needed to make informed decisions.

Looking ahead, Bessie's vision for the car business focuses on providing efficient and convenient service in both Sales and Service. She understands the value of time for today's consumers and strives to respect their time through streamlined processes and excellent customer care.