The tech industry has been hard at work for the past few years as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic affecting how we live and shop. While the move to a more digital world seems to be inevitable, the new features and capabilities are a pleasant surprise. However, how can you better use the powers of technology to improve your car-buying experience? In this article, we will take a look at how you can find a car, find financial assistance, as well as the pros and cons of virtual test drives.

Spotting Your Ride

With apps for almost everything, it’s no surprise that some car dealerships have entered this market. Here you can tailor your search to what brand, year and model you are looking for, and if you are using a search engine, then it will show you ALL the dealerships that sell the car you want. Once you have seen these and compared them, you have to prepare for your test drive.

Speaking Of Test Drives

The motor vehicle industry has had a few virtual test drive features and experiences for some years now, but it is clear that this has been the year that it’s become more popularised. That’s because it is safer to do so. However, most car experts do not suggest a virtual test drive as they are just videos of the vehicle that allow you to explore the car and its features and then ride along for a drive. You won’t be able to control acceleration or braking on them.

Among brands in the industry, BMW, Audi, Porsche, KIA, Volkswagen, Lexus, Chevrolet, and Honda have all begun using virtual reality and augmented reality experiences in the marketing of their vehicles. A physical test drive is better as it will allow you to test the following:

• How does the car start?
• Does the air conditioning work?
• Does the heat work?
• Do the windshield wipers both work?
• Test all windows and door locks, including back door latches on SUVs.
• Test all signals and lights, including brake lights, turn signals, emergency lights, headlights, tail lights, internal lights, brights and fog lights.
• Do the brakes work well?
• Test the vehicle stop and go.
• Test the vehicle on turns you take sharply (but safely).
• Feel out how much the suspension has.
• Test the cruise control.
• Get the car over 100 km/hr to see how it drives, and listen for odd noises and shaking.

Booking A Test Drive

Booking your first test drive is easy and quick. Simply visit or call your car dealership and inform them of the car(s) you are interested in test driving. If you are using the mobisite, you may have the option to test drive attached to each car shown on the catalogue, and when you click there, you either choose to book a physical test drive or indulge in virtual technology’s ability to bring machines closer to us. Remember, a physical test drive is probably better, even if you have done a virtual one.

Applying For Vehicle Finance

Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, banks and financial institutions have been working tirelessly to offer customers convenient and easy ways to apply for vehicle finance and other loans. Apps such as the WesBank App allow you freedom and access to a world of financing options. You can calculate what you qualify for, check your affordability, apply easily and get pre-approved, all from the palm of your hand. It is advisable to step into a car dealership having already been pre-approved for a loan if you will not be buying cash. That way, you know which price range to look at when buying.

Other Add-Ons

You can also purchase car insurance with your phone as soon as you have decided which one you’re getting, so consider finding the perfect insurer for you so that you save both time and money, and never sign contracts without having understood them completely.

How Insurance Benefits You

The main benefit of having vehicle insurance is so that you don’t have to worry about unexpected expenses. In South Africa, there are many insurance cover options that you can tailor to your specific preference and affordability, and depending on how you drive and maintain your car and a good driving track record, you can qualify for rewards and added benefits on your insurance cover.

Final Words

While test driving may seem like a physical job, buying a car with your phone can be exciting. All you have to do is familiarise yourself with what an online purchase entails and consider all your options before signing anything. Otherwise, see you on the road.