What you should do when going to an auto show?

Updated Aug 09, 2022 | Same topic: Best Advice for Car Buyers

Get overwhelmed with the number of cars at an auto show and don't know what to do? Here is what you should do when having access to an auto show.

Have you been thinking lately of the latest luxury cars that are yet to hit the showroom? Perhaps you have spent a lot of time browsing the internet for the coolest cars and have planned to set off to the leading car dealerships to check out the item of your much-coveted choice. 

Sure, you can always go to the local motor shows in the Philippines, but getting into the actual event can sometimes be unsettling especially when you haven’t organized your course of actions towards the show.

An auto show is ideally the starting point of someone’s life as a car owner. It has been a thing in the Philippines especially that car enthusiasts have been increasing each year. Auto shows give the prospect owners the kind of experience that are not accessible using only smartphones.

Also, it provides potential buyers a rare chance to assess the concept of cars from varied brands in one location without having to feel pressured to purchase one.

Auto shows

Auto shows give the prospect owners the kind of experience that are not accessible using only smartphones

If you are one of the people who have been planning to pull in to an auto show, Philkotse.com prepared some practical tips that you might want to consider so that your auto show experience will be both fruitful and trouble-free.

1. Determine the time of your visit

Overcrowded scenarios are inevitable in an auto show, so try to arrive early to get the most out of it. This will give you a head-start over other potential buyers and an opportunity to spend more time browsing through the cars on display and chatting with the product specialists.

Generally, opening weekends attract the most significant crowds, if you get into the event in those schedules, then you have to sit in your prospective car while other people who are most likely to fold the seats here and there and thrusting every button it has – not an ideal way to evaluate the car.

If you may, weekdays are more ideal to your auto show arrival. Especially when it's time for the auto show to open. However, if you only can go on weekends, you are advised to arrive early. 

Auto shows

Overcrowded scenarios are inevitable in an auto show

2. Consider your exact needs

Ideally, it is agreed that car shows should address your special needs as a potential client. You basically have access to cars and most popular models are available for you to assess, well not if it is a production or a model concept. You can assess the car by sitting in the front or in the backseat.

Which car is the most pleasant for you? Which one is more suitable for your family? The dials and the buttons which are located on the instrument panel should be checked carefully.

Are they well-designed and intuitive? Pull the trunk and estimate whether it can carry your ideal amount of cargo that appears on your mind. And always remind yourself if the car can be suitable for your needs or not.

Men talking

An auto show should address your special needs as a potential client

3. Communicate with the product specialist

Auto shows don’t really pressure prospective clients into purchasing an item. Usually, automakers appoint “car experts” and answer any product-related questions. These specialists can be a significant source of useful information.

Man and woman talking

It is crucial that an auto show product specialist is educated about the car that is on display

It is crucial that an auto show product specialist is educated about the car that is on display. Since many of these vehicles are yet to hit the market, the representatives should be knowledgeable and be able to answer any questions about the car’s features and specifications.

Don’t hold back about asking them any queries you have in the show. 

>>> Read more: Top 10 car brand with best customer service in the Philippines.

4. Compare, take photos, and jot down necessary notes

The thing about auto shows is that they don’t come by every day, so use that opportunity to carefully compare multiple cars in one spot. Take down important notes about the items that you are comparing because usually after an hour or so, they tend to stir together.

Taking photo at auto shows

A short list of pros and cons won’t hurt, so consider making one

A short list of pros and cons won’t hurt, so consider making one, too. Also, one of the best things about auto shows is you can take pictures of the different items and have them compared with each other afterward.

5. Take time to participate and interact

Most car-makers’ booths are assembled with interactive features like iPads and computer stalls. These elements can supply comprehensive information, let you set up the car with different options, or present you the image of the car in a different color.

In some days, some automakers may give you some gifts, for instance, cards to convince you to take part in the tutorials and any related trivia contest or simply encourage you to share your contacts. The activities are typically enjoyable ways to understand more about the car and possibly return home with swag.

Woman standing

The activities are typically enjoyable ways to learn more about the car and possibly go home with swag

6. Inquire extra manufacturer's rebate

While it’s true that automakers can’t sell cars in an auto show, sometimes, they make it as a point to give extra manufacturer rebates to all of the attendees.

A lot of people admittedly said to have claimed incentives upon visiting an auto show and got to the car dealership the following month to buy. So, take that opportunity to inquire about that! They are especially widespread at the auto shows in major metro areas.

>>> Also check: 10 mistakes car purchasers often commit before deciding on buying a car.

7. Grab hold of test drives

Most of the time, auto shows offer opportunities to see the cars in real life and take the test at the same time. Given that you qualify the manufacturer’s established driving requirements and possess a driver’s license, these are great chances to test your prospective car without having to meet and discuss with various dealerships.

But please understand that not all auto shows offer this amazing opportunity.

test drive

No better way to assess the car than taking it for a spin

Also, the cars on display are subject to limits and not all cars in the auto show can be tested. Nevertheless, I bet you would agree with me that it is the best way to assess the car than taking it for a trial.

8. And after that? 

When it's time for you to leave, you most probably have learned a lot about not just your prospective car but also other cars on display, this will help you decide which one best fits you. Hopefully, you get home satisfied.

Hanna Sanchez

Hanna Sanchez

Author

Hanna is one of the most competitive swimmers in the country during her day. It was not long before she discovered her passion for the automotive industry as well. Nowadays, she balances her passion through writing as well as coaching.

View more