How NOT to Test Drive a Vehicle

When taking a vehicle for a wintry test drive in the country, the day after heavy snowfall (on top of multiple previous snowfalls), I do not recommend attempting to pull over on the apparently smooth, snowy shoulder in order to switch drivers. No, not even in a substantial 7-passenger 4WD Pathfinder. (If you insist on doing so, at least make sure your test drive has a trailer hitch).

Of course, if you are looking for some drama and are interested in testing the availability of a miracle, then by all means give this a try!

Just so you don't have to find out for yourself, I will tell you that the flat shoulder you are contemplating might actually be many feet of snow concealing a ditch. And your (test drive) vehicle may end up nearly on its side on the slope of said ditch, partially submerged in snow. And your nearby friend with a truck, and nearby mechanic's father with a tow truck, may not be available. And, without divine intervention, your remaining options are to call the dealer or run off into the fields, never to been seen or heard from again. Unless at that very moment, a friendly stranger named Tony pulls up in his Yukon XL (which, ironically, is what we actually would really like to find...either that or a Suburban...and even more so now), and happens to have a tow strap, which works like a charm. In which case, your heart can start beating again, you can brush the snow off your test drive, and get on with your life.

(Edited to clarify: I feel the need to state that I was NOT driving at the time...because it's my blog, and I can tattle if I want to...and in Geoff's defense, I didn't even clue in that danger lurked beneath that innocent, glittering surface...no idea what was happening until the deal was done. And, one other thing: the Pathfinder is super-cool and fun. But I have two big dogs, hope to have at least 2+ kids in the next few years, and don't pack light (who can pack light in Canada, anyway? One never knows if one will need a sundress or boots and a coat). Not sure where most makers of extended SUVs think the cargo and dogs are supposed to go. And yes, I am a fan of minivans - we love our Odyssey. But our other snowy adventures living outside the city are pointing toward 4WD. And I want to use my travel trailer again. So there you have it.)