Getting the most out of your test drive is crucial when you are considering purchasing a new car, whether it is being sold by a car dealership or a private party. But how can you be sure that the car you are purchasing from a private party is the right one for you? Here are eight tips to help you make the most of your test drive.
Keep an Open Mind
Don’t let yourself fall in love with a car before seeing it or driving it. Maybe you’ve always wanted a sports car, and you see what looks to be a great deal on your “perfect car” in the newspaper. Whatever you do, go into the test drive for any car with a completely open mind. Don’t let yourself be swayed by your nostalgia for the car or your awe of its status or attractiveness. If you drive the car and you notice some things that tell you it’s not for you, listen to that little voice in your head telling you so.
Go Into The Test Drive Knowing What Type of Vehicle You’re Looking For
In other words, set your standards for what you want in your next vehicle. Narrow down your choices; maybe you can’t decide between a sedan or an SUV-- that’s fine. Make sure to test drive plenty of cars that fit your wanted categories. This will give you an idea of how different vehicles of that class handle, if nothing else, and can help you to make an informed decision on which one to purchase.
Inspect The Car Before Test Driving It
Before you take a vehicle out on the road for a test drive, do a thorough inspection of it. Open the hood and take a look at fluid levels (make sure you know what to look for first!) to find any red flags. If the oil is thick and sludgy, for example, that usually means it hasn’t been changed often, and can be a bad sign. Check fan belts and hoses for cracks. Check the vehicle’s tires for tread depth, and check tire pressure (carry one of those handy tire pressure checkers with you). Visually inspect the vehicle’s exterior for filler that might be hiding under the paint-- this could indicate that the car has been in an accident.
Keep Notes
Take notes on each car from a private seller that you test drive. If you’re really organized, make a spreadsheet, and grade different categories relating to each car. This should include brakes, sound system, interior wear, comfort of seats, maintenance performed on car, tires, how the steering feels, road noise, and smoothness of ride. Make sure that any special notes are documented, like if the car will need new tires soon. This will help you to keep track of each car you test drive and make the best decision on which one to ultimately purchase.
Don’t Rush Through the Test Drive
Take your time when test driving a car from a private seller. Don’t rush through it, and don’t let the seller rush you, either. A good benchmark is to drive it for at least 10 miles. This allows you to see how the vehicle handles, optimally on different types of roads if possible (highways and back roads included).
Use The Same Routine on Every Test Drive
If you are test driving many different vehicles, make sure to do the same things on each test drive, so that you can make a fair comparison among them. Turn the wheel at least 30 degrees in both directions. Accelerate up to 60 mph on a highway and 35 mph on surface streets. Test the brakes. Feel how the suspension reacts when the vehicle hits bumps in the road. If you notice problems, write them down in your notes. Drive as you normally would, but pay attention to how the car responds.
Once You’ve Evaluated the Sound System, Turn It Off
The sound system in a car is important, but once you’ve decided if you like it or not, turn it off. Don’t have the blower for the heat or air conditioning up too high, either. In this way, you will be able to hear noises the car makes during your test drive.
Get a Second Opinion
It’s a great idea to bring a friend along when you’re test-driving a car from a private seller – firstly, for security purposes, but also, so that your friend can test drive the car and give you their opinion. Whether or not you do this, make sure to take any vehicle you’re seriously considering buying to your mechanic for a full inspection before you buy it.