Whether at a dealership or from a private seller, test driving a vehicle before you purchase is paramount.  In fact, if you ever buy a car (new or used) without first taking it for a test drive, only to discover after you’ve taken delivery that the brakes don’t work, the air conditioning is busted or the windshield wipers don’t work, the only person you can blame is yourself.  

Here are some test driving techniques you’ll be glad you took the time to do especially if you discover problems before you purchase:

1. Don’t Be Fooled
Just because a car looks good doesn’t mean it runs good.  In fact, sometimes the owner or dealership has detailed, cleaned and shined the car so well that the glare coming off the hood is so bright, you gotta wear shades.  While it might look fantastic on the outside (which is a great thing, believe me), it needs to run well, too. 

Remember: Just because it looks good, doesn’t mean it runs good.

2. Play the Field
Test drive as many cars as you can; get a feel for how each vehicle rides and drives, what features and options they have and how they handle the road.  This is especially important when you’re not certain exactly what type of vehicle you’re looking for.   It’s okay to visit a lot of different dealerships early on to get a better idea of what you’re comfortable with.

Remember: The more vehicles you test drive, the happier you’ll be with your final decision.

3. Look Under the Hood
This is especially important if you’re considering a purchase from a private seller.  If you don’t know what you should be looking for, take someone with you who does.  Before the test drive, you should note all fluid levels, any odors which may be present, take notice of all belts and hoses to determine any cracks or worn areas, and check underneath the vehicle for any leaks, drips or fluid pools.  This is also the time to check the tires and look for any signs of former fender benders or previous accidents. 

After your test drive, once again note any leaks, drips or fluid pools under the vehicle, as well as any odors.

Remember:  Looking under the hood is a good way to determine if the vehicle has been properly cared for.

4. Test Drive
When test driving the vehicle, turn the radio off and roll the windows up at least until you have checked out everything inside the cabin the best you can.  You want to be able to listen for and hear any strange sounds or odd noises, something which will be almost impossible if the radio is on. 

Make certain to turn on the heater and then the air conditioning to be sure both are operating normally and not making any grinding, squealing or unusual noises.  You’ll also want to listen for anything which sounds unusual within the vehicle itself; any thumping, grinding, knocking, etc. should be noted.  Speed up, slow down and brake while you’re hearing any strange noises and note when you hear it as well as when it seems to stop or start. This way, you’ll be able to better describe the sound and when it seems to occur when speaking with the owner or dealership salesman.

Also, listen for any grinding or squealing from the brakes, as you make turns, as you stop the vehicle, etc.

Proper alignment is also important.  If the vehicle moves to the right or to the left when you are moving forward or if the vehicle seems difficult to handle, it’s probably a good sign that the alignment needs to be adjusted.

Don’t forget to check the headlights and turn signals, reverse lights, parking brake, windshield wipers, cruise control, rear window defroster, side mirrors (if they are electric), windows, door locks, sunroof, condition of floor boards (you may have to pull up a corner of the carpet), condition of trunk and whether the vehicle comes with a spare and a jack, test the radio and note the condition of the interior.

Remember:  Listening for strange and odd noises and making certain wear and tear are reasonable for the age of the vehicle can prevent trouble and expense later. 

5. Around the Block Isn’t Far Enough
Taking a test drive means exactly that you’re taking a drive to test the mechanicals of the vehicle.  I don’t know what the average length of a test drive is (I was unable to locate any solid information), so I would suggest taking your time but not overly long, especially if it’s a private seller who could become anxious if you’re gone for a lengthy ride. 

Remember: Taking a test drive is your assurance that the vehicle is in good operating condition.

For more tips on buying a vehicle, please see these other great Cars for Girls articles:

10 Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car

7 Tips for Buying a Used Car

How to Protect Yourself from Odometer Fraud

When Is a Used Car Right for Me?

Don’t Forget Your Shopping Kit

Tags: Advice, Car Shopping, General, Guides // 3 Comments »