Going on a test drive is an essential step before buying a used car. This is an opportunity to evaluate the vehicle to see if it’s a good fit. Unfortunately, far too many people jump in the vehicle and take off without giving much thought to the process. Then they end up buying cars that have issues. Avoid this problem by following these test-driving tips.
Inspect the Exterior
Before you hop behind the wheel and take off, spend some time examining the car’s exterior. First, look for uneven paint on the panels. If you notice this, the car likely underwent extensive bodywork. Even worse, the work wasn’t performed properly, which is why the paint looks uneven.
You should also check the tires before you embark on the test drive. If the tires are uneven or don’t match, you can still purchase the used car. However, use that as leverage when negotiating the price since you’ll need to buy new tires after purchasing the vehicle.
Inspect the Interior
Next, you need to inspect the interior of the car. If you have small children, begin by making sure the car easily accommodates your car seats. Make sure the car seats fit properly and are easy to install and remove.
Then fire up the engine and turn on the emergency flashers and lights to make sure they work. If you’re by yourself, walk around the car to make sure everything is working as it should. As you do this, listen for any strange noises, and check for odd smells.
Prepare For the Test Drive
If everything is in working order, slide behind the wheel and get comfortable. Adjust the seat and mirrors for the drive. Then check the interior lights, turn on the radio, and test the navigation, if applicable. Also, if the car has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or Bluetooth, make sure it works with your phone.
Moreover, make sure the air conditioner and heating system work. Turn it on and adjust the vents to see if you’ll get ample hot and cool air when driving. You should also test the locks before taking off.
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Go on the Test Drive
After you look everything over, you can hit the road. Don’t just go around the block and bring the car back. Test the car on different types of roads, including interstates and bumpy streets. As you go from road to road, evaluate the vehicle’s comfort and performance. You need to check the car’s acceleration, braking, and turning when driving. Also, check for strange noises or smells that could indicate something is wrong with the vehicle.
If you’re interested in purchasing a used vehicle, browse the inventory at Barbour-Hendrick Honda Greenville in Greenville, North Carolina. We have Honda Certified pre-owned and used cars available, and you can schedule a test drive online. Then you can come to our dealership to take a test drive.
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