It’s easy to get wrapped up in how a car looks, or in a favorite make and model. You may be enchanted by the technology or love the cherry-red color. It’s essential to remind yourself throughout the car-buying process that while looks are nice, it all comes down to how the vehicle feels when you drive, and whether it’s safe or not. What good is a nice-looking car when your back aches or the road noise is too loud to enjoy the nice stereo system? What happens if the blind spot is so blind that you can’t see an accident coming?
Test driving a car is one of the most crucial aspects of any purchase. Without sitting in the driver’s seat you may be signing yourself up for a terrible experience you’ll be stuck with for the unforeseeable future. When you take your test drive, it’s helpful to look at a few important elements.
What to Look for on the First Drive in your Potential Ride
There are some steps to take during a test drive that will make you look like a pro:
- Step 1: Lift the Hood – Before you get out on the road, ask to look under the hood. Even if you’re not an expert there are some simple things to evaluate. See if you notice any strong odors or any signs of poor maintenance. Feel free to open caps and see what’s inside. The oil filler cap should be free of sludge and fluids should be clean. Ask a mechanic friend before you go to show you how to go about an under-the-hood tour. If you don’t know one, watch some online tutorials.
- Step 2: Look around the vehicle – Walk around the vehicle and even crouch down and view the underside if you can. Check for tire wear, broken parts, cracks, dents or anything that doesn’t seem right. If you’re comfortable, check the tire pressure.
- Step 3: Start the car – When you start the car does it smoothly work on the first try? Do you see excess exhaust or hear any weird noises? It’s critical to pay close attention to each step of your drive.
- Step 4: Take note – Bring a clipboard, notepad or checklist. Throughout the entire process take notes on what you see, feel and experience. Add everything from brakes and exterior condition to sound systems and seat comfort. Rate everything on a personal scale of 1 to 10 or A to F. When you look at the combined notes on each vehicle you’re considering, the information will help with your final decision.
- Step 5: Ask for records – Many drivers keep impeccable records. If you can find a car with maintenance history, great. Don’t let it be the overall deciding factor, but if it’s there, use it.
The Drive
Houston’s roads are notorious. They strip thousands of drivers’ pocketbooks of much-needed funds every year. This is one of the main reasons you should pay close attention to your test drive. Don’t let a dealership cut you short. If you need more than a trip around the block, then insist on taking it. If they won’t let you, it’s a big flashing warning sign.
Ask to go 10, 25, 35 and up to 60 mph. Assess a few key things:
- Gear shifts
- Acceleration
- Braking
- Control/steering
- How in-car systems function
- Noises
- Smells
- Blinkers, windshield wipers
Turn on the A/C while driving, even if it’s 40 degrees outside. Crank the heat too. Make sure you’re comfortable with the car’s visibility. Hit a speed bump or shallow pothole—are you still comfortable? How does everything feel?
Another thing that will help is to turn the radio completely off. It will allow you to judge noise levels. Find a place to take a tight turn and see if there are any issues or strange noises like clicking or whining.
Basically, drive like you normally would (as long as you’re obeying traffic laws) and be hyper-aware of everything the car is doing.
Is Calling in the Experts Worth It?
Not everybody understands vehicles or has the confidence to do an in-depth test drive. If you don’t think you can do an accurate assessment, investing in help may be the best choice for you. Many legit mechanics will act as professional testers. Prices are typically reasonable and often far outweigh the potential cost if you end up with a lemon. Also, many dealerships offer a vehicle history report. If they don’t, consider buying one. That way you’ll know if there have been any major accidents and where the car has been.
Your next potential vehicle should be physically and mentally comfortable to you in addition to meeting some basic performance and cosmetic criteria. Remember, this is a major purchase—it’s okay to take your time and be thorough.
