What to Check on a Test Drive

Test driving is one of the most important steps to buying a used car. Why? Because each car is unique. Even those of the same make and model will have slight differences that you will need to get accustomed to. The test drive also allows you to get hands on experience on what driving the car is like, and may help you identify problems early on. So, here is what to check on a test drive.

Comfort

Since you will be driving any car you buy, why not take the time to be sure you are comfortable? Checking how easy it is to get in and out of the car can be vital for your health. A car that is too high or low may be more trouble than it is worth. Adjust the mirrors and check how the car restricts or enhances your situational awareness. It is also wise to check all the little things like cupholders and other amenities like the air conditioning and the infotainment system. These small quality of life features can overtime make your time driving something you dread or look forward to every day.

Driving

Before you start driving, be sure to avoid any distractions like the radio. You want to be able to focus on evaluating the car. Usually the dealer would have a pre-determined route for you to drive but if you feel that the route does not cover everything from stop-and-go traffic to bumps, you should request permission to drive on a different road. Do pay close attention to the steering and the handling, as any deviation could be a sign of some underlying maintenance issue. Testing the brakes and the acceleration should also be done, but not without prior warning and permission. It is after all, not your car.

Weather

Rain is a frequent occurrence in Malaysia, so while it may be annoying to test drive a car during a shower, you will eventually have to drive it in the rain. So why not test drive the car the rain and see how it handles before you buy it? Though do drive safely, and check out our guide to driving in the rain before you do!

Parking

To avoid frustrations down the line, it is advisable to test parking the car a few times. Both parallel and reverse parking should be attempted at least once to be sure you can confidently do it when you own the car. You will need to park it every time you use it after all. Use this opportunity to test out the sensors and cameras that most cars come with nowadays.

Cargo

Lastly, bring luggage bags. You can use them to get a feel of the space you have when you travel. If you have kids, taking the stroller or their car seats can help you get an idea of how the car will feel when fully in use. Lastly, if you carry a bag to work or use a purse, be sure to bring them so you can check if there is a convenient place to put them.

Be sure to make note of everything you liked and didn’t like about the car and let the dealer know. Now that you know what to check on a test drive, do make sure you test drive multiple cars, so that you find the best car for you. If you are looking to test drive a car, click here to start searching!