Test driving is an essential part of the car-buying process whether you are getting a brand-new car or buying a used one. Buying a used car is a good way to save money, but wise shoppers know they need to pay extra attention during the test drive. Here are some tips for test driving a pre-owned vehicle to help make sure you get what you want.
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Drive It Like It’s Your Own
When you take the car out on the road, drive it like you would drive your own car. Even if the dealer has a preset route for you to take, make sure you head out on roads similar to what you would normally drive. Take it over bumps to check for any rattling, and drive it on a highway if you can. You’ll also want to keep your eyes and ears open. Listen for noises from the transmission and whistling from the windows that could indicate a leak.
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How Does the Seat Feel?
When you sit down in the seat, note how comfortable it is. Is it too hard or soft? Is it comfortable enough for long trips or your daily commute? You’ll also want to pay attention to the back of the seat and make sure you can adjust it easily for maximum comfort.
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Cockpit Layout
Before hitting the road, take a look at the cockpit and the infotainment system or dashboard. Is everything in a place where you can easily reach it? If the car has a touchscreen, is it in a place where you can see it without having to take your eyes off the road for too long? Play around with the system to make sure you understand how it works and that it has all the functions you need. Test out any hands-free calling systems to make sure they are easy to use.
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Get a Grip
As you drive, pay attention to the steering wheel. If you feel any vibrations or shaking, it could be an indication of several issues, such as an unbalanced tire or even a loose steering rack. Make sure to note what you are doing when you feel the vibration. For instance, if you feel a vibration in the steering wheel only when you apply the brakes, there could be a warped brake rotor or a problem with the caliper.
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Listen to the Engine
When you start the car, listen carefully to the engine. If there is any tapping or ticking noises, you will want to have it looked at before making any decisions about buying the car. You should also listen for grinding or groaning sounds coming from the transmission when you put it in gear and make sure it shifts smoothly into gear without any hesitation.
6. Take a Look in the Trunk
Make sure you pop the trunk and take a look inside. Determine if there’s enough trunk space to fit your needs, whether you need space for carrying groceries or enough cargo room for all your family’s activities.
Follow these tips when test driving a pre-owned vehicle to get something that fits your lifestyle and is in good condition.
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