Test driving a car is one of the best ways to find out if you really want to buy it. The reason for this is that, unlike when you are looking at pictures online or reading reviews, test driving a car gives you an opportunity to see things in person and by yourself. It lets you know how the engine sounds, how comfortable the seats are, whether there’s enough legroom for your legs or not. And most importantly it lets you know if the car makes your heart sing!
But before any test drive can be done properly there are some questions that need answering first:
What type of transmission does it have? Does it come with air conditioning? Is there enough cargo space? Can I use my phone while driving this car? Will I be able to see enough of what’s around me while driving this car? And so much more!
Well, let’s go over some practical things you can look for when test driving a car. There are five main components that make up the majority of any car’s driveability: engine, transmission, the suspension system (if it has one), steering, and brakes/gas pedal.
1.) Engine
The first thing you should listen for is the sound of the engine; does it sound like it’s struggling or laboring? What kind of noises does it make when idling at a stoplight? If the car feels like it’s working too hard to get itself down the road then something is probably wrong with either the transmission or the engine.
2.) Transmission
How the transmission feels when you shift gears is also important, does it feel smooth or does it jerk around? If it’s the latter then there might be something wrong with the transmission. Also, try putting the car into reverse and then driving again; does it feel like it wants to jump out of gear?
3.) Suspension
The suspension system should be tested by going over some bumps in the road, if the car feels like it’s bouncing all over the place then that could mean that either the shocks or springs need to be replaced.
4.) Steering
The steering wheel should be turned from side to side and also checked for any vibrations; if there are vibrations then that means that either the wheel bearings or tie rods need attention.
5.) Brakes and Gas Pedal
The brakes should be tested by applying pressure to the pedal, if it feels spongy then that could mean that there’s a leak in the brake lines. And finally, the gas pedal should be tested by pressing down on it; if it feels like it’s sticking then there might be something wrong with the throttle body.
These are just some of the things you can look for when test driving a car, but by no means is this an exhaustive list. So, before heading out to test drive any car make sure you have a list of questions ready to ask the seller or salesman. That way you can be sure that you’re getting the most out of your test drive!
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