Finding the right used car can be tough. In 2025, our Used Mitsubishi Test Drive Guide is here to help. We at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country show you how to check a Mitsubishi before buying it.
Get ready for smart shopping tips!
Importance of a Thorough Test Drive
A thorough test drive is key to finding a great used Mitsubishi. It lets you check the car's performance and overall feel beyond what you can see. This step is crucial in places like Indiana, Ohio, or Kentucky where we serve many customers.
You need to hear how the engine sounds and feel how the car accelerates and brakes. These checks ensure the vehicle runs smoothly without any hidden issues.
Taking your time during a test drive can reveal much about a used Mitsubishi's condition, says Harry Tepe of Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country. We believe in giving our customers all the information they need to make smart choices. Testing steering, handling, and comfort on Midwest roads gives you a clear picture of what it's like to own that car every day.
Preparing for Your Used Mitsubishi Test Drive
Getting ready for your used Mitsubishi test drive is key to making a smart purchase. My team and I at Tom Tepe Autocenter encourage you to check out the model's history and pack all needed documents before you come in.
This ensures that when you arrive, we can focus on finding the perfect vehicle for you without any delays.
Research the model and year
Research is key before picking a used Mitsubishi. Start by looking into the model and year that fits your needs. Each model has its perks, so know what you want from your car. For example, some might offer better fuel efficiency, while others are known for their durability.
At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we suggest identifying three vehicles of interest. This step makes it easier for you to compare and decide.
Knowing about any past issues helps in making a smart choice. After gathering all this information, bring the necessary documents with you for the test drive.
This includes your driver's license and insurance proof - getting ready for the next step toward finding your perfect used Mitsubishi.
Bring necessary documents
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we always advise our customers to bring the right documents for a test drive. This includes your driver’s license and proof of insurance. These items are not just paperwork; they're essential for a legal test drive experience.
Having these documents ready speeds up the process, allowing you to focus on the Mitsubishi used car buying tips instead of sorting out paperwork.
Next, inspecting the car's exterior and interior is crucial before hitting the road.
Inspect the car’s exterior and interior beforehand
Before you take a used Mitsubishi for a test drive, it's crucial to inspect its exterior and interior. This ensures you're aware of any issues that could affect your driving experience or the vehicle's value. Here's what to look for:
Check the exterior for rust. Look at the car's doors, hood, and trunk edges.
Look for dents or scratches on the body. These can show past accidents or poor care.
Examine the paint condition closely. Make sure it's even without fading areas.
Inspect tire condition carefully. They should have good tread and be free from cracks.
Ensure the spare tire is present and functional.
Open and close all doors, including the trunk, to check their alignment and ease of operation.
Inside, review maintenance records to gauge how well the car was taken care of.
Test all interior lights and dashboard displays to ensure they work well.
Smell for odors in the car’s interior that might indicate leaks or water damage.
Verify no dashboard warning lights stay on after starting the car.
These steps are vital in Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Harrison Ohio, Aurora Indiana, Milan Indiana areas where weather conditions can affect a vehicle's condition significantly.
Next up is evaluating key areas during your test drive to ensure a smooth ride and reliable performance from your potential used Mitsubishi purchase at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.
Key Areas to Evaluate During the Test Drive
Check the engine, steering, brakes, and comfort during a test drive to ensure you're choosing a good Mitsubishi. Discover more at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country for your next vehicle.
Engine performance and acceleration
Testing engine performance and acceleration is crucial when you're looking to buy the best used Mitsubishi. During your test drive, pay attention to how the car moves from a stop. It should be smooth and quick.
At higher speeds, the acceleration should still feel powerful. This tells you a lot about the car's health. A well-performing engine is key to an enjoyable driving experience.
Driving on different road types helps assess if the Mitsubishi meets our needs. If it feels slow or struggles when speeding up, this might signal problems. Listen for any strange noises during acceleration too; they can hint at issues under the hood that need addressing before making your purchase at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.
Steering and handling
Check the steering and handling on your used Mitsubishi carefully. It should not vibrate or pull to one side, as these could be signs of suspension or alignment problems. During the test drive, pay attention to how the car responds and if it feels stable.
The steering should be easy, and you should reach all controls without trouble. Also, listen for any strange noises when turning the wheel; this could mean there are mechanical issues.
Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter makes sure every used Mitsubishi we sell has passed thorough inspections for these very issues because we know how important a smooth ride is to our customers.
Braking responsiveness
After checking the steering and handling, focus on the braking responsiveness of the used Mitsubishi. This is key in a test driving checklist. If you feel the car pulling to one side while braking, it might signal brake issues.
We always suggest measuring each wheel's temperature with an infrared thermometer after your drive. A hotter wheel can point to a stuck caliper piston, which is crucial information for anyone looking to buy the best used Mitsubishi.
Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country takes these checks seriously. Remembering to see if brake pull gets worse with harder stops helps identify potential problems early on.
It's our goal to ensure you have all the details needed for a wise choice in your vehicle purchase journey.
Suspension and ride comfort
Check the suspension and ride comfort of a used Mitsubishi by driving over bumps and uneven roads. This tells you how well the car can handle rough surfaces. A good suspension will make the ride smooth, even on bad roads.
Adjusting the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel helps find a comfortable driving position. A smooth ride begins with quality suspension.
Listen for unusual noises during the test drive. These sounds can come from worn-out parts in the suspension system. Noises are clues that something might need fixing. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter understands how important this is for drivers looking for a reliable used Mitsubishi.
Testing Technology and Features
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we emphasize the importance of testing technology and features in a used Mitsubishi. This step ensures that essential systems like the infotainment and climate control are working properly for your comfort and convenience on the road.
Infotainment system functionality
Check the infotainment system carefully during your test drive of a used Mitsubishi. This system should easily let you use navigation, play music, and make hands-free calls. Make sure it works as expected.
You want it to respond fast and not use too much power.
Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter focuses on how well these features perform in every pre-owned Mitsubishi we sell. We know a good driving experience isn't just about the engine or brakes.
The technology in the car matters a lot too. That's why we always check if the infotainment system operates correctly before you buy.
Climate control systems
After checking the infotainment system, move to the climate control systems. This feature is vital for comfort in a used Mitsubishi. Test the air conditioning to make sure it cools quickly.
Then, switch to heat to see how fast it warms up the cabin. Don't forget special features like heated seats or navigation that add value and convenience.
At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we know a reliable climate control system makes every drive better, no matter the weather. Testing these systems helps ensure your used Mitsubishi will keep you comfortable year-round.
Safety features, including backup camera and sensors
After checking the climate control systems in a used Mitsubishi, it's crucial to review its safety features. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter emphasizes the importance of these features for your peace of mind on Indiana roads.
The models we offer come with advanced safety options, like Active Blind Spot Assist. This helps detect vehicles around you and can apply brakes to prevent side collisions.
Mitsubishis also have Rear Automatic Emergency Braking using sonar sensors to spot objects behind you, stopping the car if needed. For extra security, Forward Collision Mitigation alerts you to potential front crashes and can automatically engage the brakes, including when pedestrians are detected.
Plus, a Multi-View Camera System gives a 360° view around the vehicle for safer parking and eliminating blind spots. These must-check features during your test drive ensure that any used Mitsubishi from our lot meets high safety standards.
Inspecting the Vehicle’s Condition Post-Test Drive
After the test drive, always inspect the car for any odd sounds or smells and check underneath for leaks to ensure it's in top condition. This step gives you peace of mind before making your decision.
To learn more about finding the best used Mitsubishi, visit Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country today.
Check for unusual sounds or smells
During your test drive of a used Mitsubishi, paying attention to unusual sounds or smells is key. If you notice any musty odors inside the car, it could mean there are water leaks or other issues.
These smells might hint at hidden problems that could lead to bigger issues down the road.
Listening for strange noises when the car is running is also crucial. Sounds like banging, rattling, or whining from the engine can signal serious mechanical faults. At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we stress the importance of these checks because they help uncover potential concerns before you make your purchase decision.
This approach ensures you choose a vehicle that's not only reliable but also matches our high standards for quality in every used Mitsubishi we sell.
Look for leaks under the vehicle
After checking the car for any unusual sounds or smells, it's crucial to inspect underneath for leaks. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we know that finding a leak under your potential used Mitsubishi can be a sign of trouble.
Only water from the air conditioning should drip. If you see other fluids like oil, transmission fluid, or coolant, this could mean big problems.
We advise our customers at Car Country to take their time during this part of the inspection. Look carefully under the vehicle after the test drive when everything is running and warmed up.
Finding leaks early can save you from costly repairs down the road. Our team is here to help guide you through inspecting a used Mitsubishi thoroughly before making your purchase decision.
Review dashboard warning lights
Moving on from checking for leaks, it's crucial to examine the dashboard warning lights. These lights provide key insights into your used Mitsubishi's health and performance. Watch out for the check engine light, battery light, ABS light, and brake warning light during your test drive.
These could signal issues that need immediate attention.
Also, pay close attention if the engine temperature warning light turns on; this means the engine might be overheating. Don’t overlook the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light either; it will alert you to low tire pressure problems.
Understanding these signals can save you from future troubles with your vehicle choice. At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we ensure every used Mitsubishi is thoroughly checked for these warnings before hitting our lot, helping make your decision process easier and more reliable.
Explore Our Reliable Inventory of Pre-Owned Mitsubishi Vehicles
Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter proudly presents an impressively diverse array of previously owned Mitsubishi vehicles. Each one undergoes a rigorous 123-point examination to ensure it stands up to exacting quality standards.
Included in our inventory are models accompanied by a 10-year / 100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Assurance and no out-of-pocket repair costs, affirming a promise of security for purchasers.
Additionally, relish the comfort of round-the-clock Roadside Assistance throughout the assurance period.
In search of the optimal second-hand Mitsubishi for your needs? Take a look through our collection. From family-centric SUVs to resource-efficient sedans, our selection is broad. Bear in mind, specific models like the i-MiEV and Lancer Evolution are excluded from our offerings.
Nevertheless, teaming up with us translates to making a decision grounded in trust and value when securing your subsequent vehicle.
Financing Your Used Mitsubishi: Options and Application Process
Financing a used Mitsubishi is straightforward with us. We offer competitive financing rates and terms for qualified buyers. Our finance experts guide you through the process, making it easy to understand.
You can start by filling out a secure online finance application.
This step begins your journey to owning a best-used Mitsubishi. After you apply, our team will contact you to discuss options that fit your budget. Next, let's dive into how you can get the best offer on your trade-in.
Valuing Your Trade-In: How to Get the Best Offer
Once you've explored financing possibilities for your pre-owned Mitsubishi, the following phase is obtaining a favorable proposal for your trade-in. At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we comprehend the worth of your existing automobile and how it can significantly influence your acquisition.
Firstly, utilize online resources such as Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to estimate the value of your vehicle. This understanding empowers you to negotiate more effectively.
Ensure your car is in prime condition before bringing it in; a well-manicured and detailed automobile often conveys greater value. Subsequently, acquire price propositions from us for comparison.
We advocate discussing the trade-in cost separately from the procurement of the pre-owned Mitsubishi to guarantee that you secure the finest arrangement on both accounts. It's our objective at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country to ensure your satisfaction with both the amount you obtain for your trade-in and the cost of your next Mitsubishi.
Conclusion
Choosing a used Mitsubishi in 2025 can be smooth with the right steps. Our guide helps you see what to check on your test drive. Remember, it's not just about how the car looks but also how it feels and runs.
At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we have a wide range of quality vehicles waiting for you. We ensure each one meets high standards before you get behind the wheel. Let us help make your buying experience easy and enjoyable.
Q&A Section: Test Driving a Used Mitsubishi
1. What should I check on a used Mitsubishi before starting a test drive?Before you begin a test drive at Tom Tepe Autocenter, it's important to inspect the vehicle's exterior for any signs of damage like rust, dents, and scratches. Make sure to check the interior for functionality, such as the dashboard displays and all lights. Review the car’s maintenance records to gauge previous care. These initial checks ensure that you are aware of the vehicle's condition before driving.
2. How can I ensure that the Mitsubishi I'm interested in will perform well on Indiana roads?During your test drive at Tom Tepe Autocenter, focus on how the car handles various road conditions. Pay attention to the engine performance, steering stability, and braking responsiveness. Indiana's varying terrain and weather conditions mean it’s crucial to test the car on both highways and local roads to assess its adaptability and comfort.
3. What documents should I bring to my test drive appointment at Tom Tepe Autocenter?To ensure a smooth and efficient test drive experience at Tom Tepe Autocenter, please bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance. These documents are necessary for a legal test drive and will help expedite the process, allowing you more time to focus on the vehicle itself.
4. What are some key technological features I should test in a used Mitsubishi?When test-driving a used Mitsubishi at our dealership, make sure to check the infotainment system for functionality, including navigation, audio, and connectivity options. Additionally, test the climate control to ensure it adjusts properly for heating and cooling. These features contribute significantly to the comfort and convenience of the vehicle.
5. How does Tom Tepe Autocenter ensure the safety features of a used Mitsubishi are up to standard?At Tom Tepe Autocenter, each used Mitsubishi undergoes a comprehensive safety check before being made available for sale. During your test drive, verify the functionality of critical safety features such as the backup camera, sensors, and any advanced driving assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring or automatic emergency braking. We make sure these features meet our high safety standards to ensure your peace of mind on the road.
Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter
Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.
Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.
Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.
Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.
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