How to Properly Test Drive a Used Vehicle
No matter how popular and convenient online transactions are, vehicle buyers should never skip doing a proper road test. In fact, when it comes to the purchase of a used car, this step is absolutely necessary.
Indeed, it’s the best way to make sure that it will suit your daily needs and driving style, but also to see if everything works as it should. Don’t put blind faith in the seller’s word or the inspection report!
Today, we’ll give you some advice to help you road test a vehicle effectively to make a well-informed decision. Are you ready? Here we go!
Two Heads Are Better Than One
Ask a parent or a friend to come with you for the test drive and check for possible problems you might have missed. It’s also important that any other person who will need to drive the vehicle regularly can sit behind the wheel and try it before the purchase is made.
Proper Planning
If you already know what you want and don’t want in your next vehicle, it’ll be easier to make the right choice. Bring a checklist with you and review every single point during your test drive. In addition, you should plan a route that will allow you to test the vehicle’s handling in various conditions such as highway, dense traffic, bumpy or gravel roads, etc.
Before Setting Off …
Don’t hit the road right away! Open the doors and trunk and see if you can access them easily, step on the footboards, play with the various accessories, switch on the air conditioner and heated seats, etc. and get acquainted with the controls and driving position.
Get a Realistic Picture
It’s a good idea to test the vehicle’s abilities and limitations, but your road test should above all reflect your driving style and habits. In other words, drive it and use its features as you normally would. Don’t let emotions influence you—try to be rational and careful while evaluating all aspects of the vehicle.
Test Drive Safely
In addition to testing the car in various conditions, you should find a safe place to try its braking force, obstacle avoidance abilities, and parking manoeuvres. Warn your passengers so they are prepared before you attempt any abrupt stop or turn. If you find the vehicle’s feel or behaviour annoying or inadequate, take notes and share them with the dealer, or with the mechanic who will inspect it before you make your decision.
If in Doubt, Try It Again
If your test was too short or happened at night in the dark, nothing prevents you from asking to try the vehicle again another time. Some elements could have eluded you, or another family member could want to evaluate it. For a test drive to be conclusive, up to 30 minutes are generally needed, so take your time!