How to Get More Customers Behind the Wheel This Month
- Juan Jose Jaramillo
- May 21
- 2 min read
If you’re trying to get more customers into a test drive (and ultimately behind the wheel of their dream car), here’s the truth: it’s not just about having the best inventory anymore.
People want an experience, and they want it to be easy, fun, and tailored to them.Especially in today’s market, where options are endless and attention spans are short, you have togo beyond the basic “come in for a test drive” approach.
Here’s what smart dealerships are doing right now to boost test drives and lock in more sales:
Make Scheduling Effortless
People shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to book a test drive.
👉 Online scheduling should be simple, mobile-friendly, and FAST.
👉 Give them options: choose their date, time, and even preferred model with just a few clicks.
👉 Bonus points if you send an instant confirmation text or email.
The easier it is to book, the more likely they are to show up.
Bring the Test Drive to Them
Yes, you read that right.If a customer can shop for groceries, furniture, and a new wardrobe without leaving their couch...why should they HAVE to come to you for a test drive?
Offer "Test Drives at Home" or "We’ll Bring It to You" programs:
Schedule a time that works for them
Show up with a freshly cleaned car and a smile
Maybe even throw in a small gift like a coffee card to make it memorable
You’re not just selling a car, you’re delivering convenience.
Create an Actual Experience
A test drive isn’t just a 15-minute spin around the block.It’s a chance to create emotion and excitement.
Personalize the route (scenic? highway? city driving?)
Point out features they care about based on what they’ve told you
Play their favorite music, set the vibe
Offer a longer “overnight” or “weekend” test drive if possible
The goal? Make them feel like they already own it.
Engage Digitally Before They Even Show Up
You have to meet customers where they are: ONLINE.
Send personalized video walkarounds
Show off key features they’re interested in
Answer common questions in advance (fuel economy, trunk space, tech features)
Let them “see” and “feel” the car digitally before they even sit in it
A little effort upfront builds HUGE trust.
The Bottom Line 👇
People don’t just want to buy a car. They want to feel confident, excited, and in control of the experience.
If you make it effortless, personal, and a little bit fun?You’ll have way more customers not just booking test drives, but saying YES to driving off your lot.
Need help setting all this in motion?
At Read Me Now Marketing, we specialize in real dealership strategies that actually move the needle. (And spoiler alert: we make it super easy, too.)