How to Test Drive a Car

When a person decides to purchase a used or new car, it is important to take the car on a test drive. The car which appears to be exactly what you are looking for could be a bad choice. Test driving a car can tell you several things about that car. Testing driving a car can reveal the performance, handling abilities, mechanical issues and other things such as comfort and visibility from the driver’s seat. Taking a car for a test drive is the only way to really determine if that car is the right choice. Below you find some helpful information that may help you on your next test drive.

Why Test Drive

Do not be shy about taking a car for a test drive. Drive as many different style cars that you can, that are within your price range and meet your needs. You may be surprised that the car that was not initially your first choice performs better on the test drive.

Check the Car Over

You should do a complete walk around of the car before the test drive. Do not take the word of the seller that everything is fine. Taking the time to inspect for leaks, low tire pressure or even a broken lamp may prevent a disaster during the test drive. You should also familiarize yourself with the controls before you start driving.

What to Look for When Test Driving

Listen closely when you start the car. You should listen for knocking or anything that does not sound normal. When you shift the car into gear, you should again listen carefully. Does the transmission shift smoothly? Did you hear a clunking noise? Unfamiliar sounds when starting a car and shifting the transmission into gear can be a red flag that something is wrong.

While on a test drive, it is a good idea to turn on the air-conditioner, heater, headlights and look at every gauge that is on the dashboard. Doing these things while driving serves two purposes: one, you can ensure that everything works properly; two, you can get a sense of the interior design and if it is driver friendly. Ultimately you want to be able to reach all of the controls without taking your eyes off of the road.

Keep Stereo Off

As tempting as the stereo may be, it is a good idea to test drive a car with the stereo turned off. The stereo may distract you and it could also hide any abnormal noises that may signal a mechanical issue with the car.

Go on the Highway

Driving the car on city streets as well as on a highway is important. Highway test driving can reveal if the car is quiet while at highway speeds and reveal any handling issues that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Next time you test drive a car, hopefully this information will prove useful to you. Remember, purchasing a car is a big investment. It is better to find out that a car just doesn't feel right or doesn't provide the comfort that you had in mind while on a test drive.

Photo Credits: Borya

This post involves:

air conditioner, car testing, dashboard, driving a car, Headlights, interior design, leaks, mechanical issues, red flag, test drive, tire pressure, visibility

... and focuses on:

Buying and Selling, Car Tips, Driving Tips

Posted by How To Car on in Buying and Selling, Car Tips, Driving Tips. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.