Buying a car can be a lot of fun, but it can also feel like a bit of a rollercoaster. One of the most important parts of the car-buying process is the test drive. It’s your chance to feel out the car, check how it drives, and make sure it’s the right fit for you. But what should you look for during a test drive? We’re here to walk you through all the key things to keep an eye out for—without getting too technical.
What to look for during a test drive
Comfort and seat adjustments
Before you even start driving, take a minute to adjust the seat and steering wheel. You want to make sure you’re comfortable. Check if the seat has enough adjustability for your height and whether you can reach the pedals without stretching too far. If you’re going to be driving this car for long trips or daily commutes, comfort is key. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re super excited to hit the road. A good test drive starts before you turn on the engine!
Visibility and mirrors
Now, once you’ve got your seat and wheel just right, it’s time to check the mirrors. Make sure they’re in the right spots for you to see clearly. This might sound simple, but good visibility is a big deal. Test how easy it is to adjust the side mirrors and rearview mirror. Check if you have any blind spots when you’re sitting in the driver’s seat. During your test drive, you don’t want to be caught off guard when changing lanes.
How does it drive?
Alright, now it’s time to get into the fun part—driving. Start slow and pay attention to how the car feels. Does it feel smooth or rough? Any strange sounds, like squeaks, rattles, or knocking noises? A smooth drive is a good sign, while any weird noises could mean trouble. Keep an eye out for any pulling to one side while driving straight—this could be a sign of alignment issues. If the car seems to vibrate a lot, it could be a shock absorber issue, so pay attention to the little things.
Handling and steering
During you’re test drive, take note of how the car handles. Does the steering feel tight or loose? It should be responsive, meaning it turns easily without too much effort, but not too much play in the wheel. If it’s hard to steer or feels wobbly, that’s not something you want in your next car. Try doing a few sharp turns to see how the car handles curves and sharp bends. It should stay steady and balanced.
Brakes and acceleration
Brakes and acceleration are huge, obviously. When you test drive, don’t hesitate to press on the brakes a little harder to see how the car responds. Does it stop quickly and smoothly, or does it take longer to respond? Also, test the acceleration. You don’t have to go full speed ahead, but make sure it accelerates at a reasonable rate and doesn’t make any weird noises when you press the pedal. It’s good to check how the brakes feel while you’re driving at different speeds—anything off here could point to brake issues or other problems.
Suspension and ride quality
During your test drive, think about how comfortable the ride is. Are you bouncing up and down like a kangaroo? Or does the car absorb bumps well, giving you a smooth ride? Check the suspension to see how it reacts to bumps and uneven road surfaces. A good test drive will let you feel how well the car handles rough patches of road, so pay attention to any sudden jolts or bumpy rides. If you’re in for a smooth, comfy ride, you’ll want the suspension to handle those bumps without making you feel every little thing.
Fuel efficiency and technology
While you’re cruising around, take a moment to check out the car’s tech features. Does it have a user-friendly infotainment system? How easy is it to use the touchscreen? Can you connect your phone easily for hands-free calls or music? The tech features should make your drive easier, not more complicated. You also want to check out the car’s fuel efficiency—if you’re planning on driving a lot, you don’t want to be constantly filling up your tank. Find out the car’s average mileage and make sure it meets your needs.
Noise and overall comfort
Some cars are quiet as a mouse, while others might sound a bit too noisy for your taste. On your test drive, notice how much outside noise gets through. Does the cabin stay quiet even at higher speeds? A quiet ride adds to the overall comfort, especially if you’re doing a lot of driving. You want a car that’s relaxing to be in, not one that’s giving you a headache with wind or road noise.
Parking and manoeuvrability
Find out how easy the car is to park. Test out a few tight spots, if you can. Does the car feel easy to park, or are you sweating bullets trying to fit it in? Some cars have fantastic parking assist features that make this easier, but it’s still good to get a feel for the car yourself. Don’t forget to check how the car feels in tight corners and spaces. Parking can be a big deal if you live in a crowded area or have a small garage.
Overall impressions
At the end of your test drive, take a few minutes to reflect on the whole experience. Was the car comfortable to drive? Did it meet your expectations? Does it make you feel good behind the wheel? After all, you want a car that you’re going to enjoy driving day after day. Don’t rush the test drive—take your time to really get a feel for it.
Remember, a test drive isn’t just about how fast the car can go; it’s about how it feels, handles, and fits your needs. Pay attention to those little things like comfort, handling, and ease of use, and you’ll be in a better position to make the right decision.
Before you make any final decisions, don’t forget to consider a pre purchase car inspection. At our shop, we offer comprehensive pre purchase car inspections to help you make an informed choice. Our mechanics will thoroughly check the car for any hidden issues, from the engine to the suspension, so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises later. We’ll give you a full report, making sure you know exactly what you’re getting into before you buy. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and drive away with confidence!