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Used Car Test Drive
You should never buy a car without driving it first. Auto Trader's Stuart Milne lists the do's and don’ts of the test drive.
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Before you view the car, make sure you're fully insured, and take proof with you - most sellers will want to know you're covered in the event of an accident.
Start the car - preferably when the engine is cold. It should start straight away - if it takes too long, it could be trouble.
After you've started the car, check the exhaust for excessive noise. If there are holes in it, there will be lots of noise - this is known as a 'blow'.
Have a look at the exhaust smoke - white, steam-like smoke is OK, unless there's a lot. Blue smoke can indicate an internal oil leak, which can be expensive to rectify. You can check a car extensively once the test drive is over.
Once the engine has been running for a while, the temperature gauge should sit around the halfway mark.
Before you set off, turn the steering wheel from one lock to the other. There should be no screeching, banging or knocking. It should also be smooth. Noticing any errors early on will save you having to buy new car parts later.
Test the handbrake by pulling it on and trying to drive off gently. If it fails to hold the car back, it will need attention - although most handbrakes will still lose the battle with an engine.
On your test drive, you should drive on as many different kinds of roads and surfaces as possible. Use all the gears, and don't forget reverse.
On manual cars, the gear change should be slick and smooth, and the clutch pedal should 'bite' between the top and middle of the pedal's travel. If the clutch doesn't disengage until the pedal is on or near the floor, it needs adjusting or replacing - expensive.
If you're driving an automatic, there shouldn't be any slurring, whining or banging.
Accelerate hard, and watch for smoke from the exhaust, and after checking no one is behind, brake sharply. If you feel the car pulling to one side or hear noises, the brakes and tyre tread will need examining.
Throughout your test drive, listen out for unusual noises and don't let the seller distract you by talking or turning up the radio.
The seller will usually suggest a route, but if it's not long enough tell them. But remember, don’t start abusing the car - you haven’t bought it yet.
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