As we have mentioned on multiple occasions that buying a used car is a lengthy process and requires a keen mind. Doesn’t matter you buy the car from a dealer or a private party, you must test drive the used car; if you don’t you will be making a terrible mistake. Possibly, you might be traded off a stagnant showpiece for the price of a supercar; at least this is how sales agents pose their cars once they start blabbering what gorgeous piece they are selling to you. And don’t get smart, they are pretty successful at convincing the best of us.
Action speaks louder than words, you would not know anything about a car if you haven’t been behind the steering yourself. Now we are assuming that you are a good driver if not very experienced. However, today our guidelines will help you sort out what new buyers usually miss out. Keep in mind that your demand to test-drive the used car is unconditional, because private sellers usually hesitate to give their cars like this. On the other hand, dealers allow you test drive their vehicles, but they can ask you to provide your driver’s license, identity card and other information.
So, read every step and save in your virtual memory, as we guide you how to test drive the used car.
Before Taking the Test Drive
There are a few points to keep in mind; it is just for your own safety. A superficial assay can save you time, so you can decide what is not acceptable for you just by the look of the vehicle’s exterior and the cabin.
Safety Checks
- The condition of tyres should be good
- The seat belts are working properly
- Airbags are installed or not
- The brakes and handbrakes are properly working
- The horns and wipers are functional
- Do not forget to check the indicators
Condition Checks
- The windshield and mirrors are clean and transparent
- The seats, carpets, switches, mirrors and headliners are in good shape
- Power windows open and close all the way and power seats are functional
- Check the sound system, CD or DVD player, radio and other entertainment features
- Advance features like the cruise control and environment control systems are working
- Deny the car right off, if you observe exterior dents, broken windows or malformed shape
While Test Driving the Car
The car should start easily; don’t seamlessly turn the key again and again on seller’s instruction. The third attempt should be the last.
- The gears should shift smoothly without resistance. Stop if they get stuck. The same goes for automatic transmission; the clicky noise is not a good sign.
- The pedals including clutch, accelerator and brakes should feel light. It’s not a good sign if they make noise.
- Always check the brakes before taking off for long routes, discontinue the test drive if they are too loose.
- Once you are on the road, keep the acceleration in check; it directly relates to performance of the engine.
- The steering should feel comfortable as you change the lanes, and the car should be easy to navigate around the corners.
- The engine should have consistency; if you feel a drag in ignition, it means engine has gone through its course.
- You must take at least 20-30 minutes’ drive to fully observe the performance of the car.
After You Test Drive the Used Car
Hopefully, you are aware now how to test drive the used car. There are various other steps such as taking it to a mechanic for proper inspection, obtaining repair history and ownership history and other useful documents. That’s it from us; hope you will find these tips useful.