How to get the most out of a test drive
How to get the most out of a test drive
Whether you’re planning to buy a new or used car, the test drive is most often the deciding factor. Here’s how to get the most value out of it.
- Do a proper inspection
You may not be an expert, but chances are you have a friend or relative who is car-clever. Now is the time to renew that friendship and take that person with you!
Have a proper look at the engine bay (it should look clean and well-maintained) as well as the interior and exterior. The battery terminals should be free of build-up, the body colour should be even (uneven colour may indicate that the car was involved in an accident)and all the necessary paperwork should be should be available and up to date.
Also look for any leaks or puddles underneath the car. Check the oil as well, and pay attention to the state of the tyres - uneven wear could indicate a bigger problem. Still uneasy? You can do a vehicle check right here on our www.autotrader.co.za website.
2.Don’t rush
Don’t allow the dealer to rush you to complete the test drive as quickly as possible. Ideally, at least an hour would be enough for you to drive the car, to listen for abnormal sounds (yet again, your petrolhead friend can assist) and to check whether everything in the car is in good working order. Knocking and rumbling sounds are a cause for concern!
Make sure the radio/CD player works, as well as other equipment such as the air-con, the 12V power socket(s), USB-ports and the like. Pay attention to smells as well. You don’t want to smell fuel or the bitter, acrid smell of burning clutch!
Check for any smoke from the exhaust as well.
If you have your heart set on a used car but you don’t want to buy a lemon, the Automobile Association of SA recommends a Technical Examination. It’s a detailed inspection “of all visible and observable components of the vehicle”, and takes about 2 to 3 hours.
3.Stick to a route you drive regularly
If you’re car-shopping far away from home, this may not always be possible, but driving a route you know well will highlight the differences between your potential new car and your old one. Driving the test car on a road with familiar imperfections will give you a better feel for it.
Make sure you test the brakes properly and pay attention to the handling, ergonomics, visibility and all-round comfort. Does something small irritate you? Chances are it will only irritate you more as time goes by.
4.Drive all the cars on your shortlist in one day
This can be a tall order, but if you have narrowed down a few close rivals, driving them back to back will illustrate their strengths and weaknesses better. One forgets how a car feels very quickly, so try and squeeze those test drives in!
5.Don’t test the incorrect spec
No point in testing the diesel car with an auto gearbox if you want the petrol one with a manual transmission instead. If there isn’t a car available in the exact spec level you’re after, ask the salesperson exactly how the available model is different. It may have low profile tyres or a more sporty suspension that will change how comfortable the ride is or how it handles. The wise thing to do, would be to go elsewhere and drive exactly what you want to buy.