Taking Your Test Drive - Going for A Spin

Warning! - If stopped during a road test you, the driver, are liable for any equipment violations the vehicle may have.  Insure that the salesperson has a copy of the dealer's insurance card with them, and that the dealer's license plates haven't expired.

The Road Test - Many of the used cars available today really are like new, thanks to the large numbers of high-quality cars coming back to dealerships at the end of their lease terms.  For every "like new" used car, however, there are 10 that aren't.  The best way to assess a vehicle you're contemplating is by taking a test drive.  

Whether your candidate is new or used, choose a route to drive that includes stop-and-go driving, rough roads, winding curves, and interstate  highways ( 65mph or higher).  Your test drive should last at least 30 minutes.  The dealer's typical quick spin around the block is NOT a road test.

Check the position of the steering wheel and see if it's straight.  Does the car pull to one side on a straight road or when you apply the brakes?  If so you'll need a front-end alignment and possibly new brake calipers.  Do you feel a vibration in the brake pedal when lightly applying the brakes?  You're looking at the expense of new brake pads and rotors.  Does the steering wheel vibrate at higher speeds?  You'll probably need new tires, tie rods, or control arms.  Be sure you turn the stereo off during most of your road test, and the same goes for your talkative passenger, the salesperson.  Suggest they save their sales pitch until after the road test, but don't be afraid to ask any questions you might come up with.  Include a couple miles with and without the A/C turned on, both to test the power drain and to listen to the car.  

On a sparsely traveled road give the vehicle a workout.  Start out slowly to see how the transmission up shifts under normal driving.  Swerve sharply but smoothly from side to side, listening for clunks indicative of suspension problems.  Accelerate hard while listening for noises in the vehicle's drive train or transmission.  A modern automatic should shift smoothly and quietly under all conditions.  Tap firmly on the accelerator at a modest speed, listening for clunks or thuds that indicate worn bushings or a loose or faulty driveline. Listen for excessive noise with the windows and sunroof both open and closed. 

Brake hard from at least 50 mph, to check the vehicle's emergency behavior.  It should stop in a straight line with minimal wheel lock-up, or none with ABS (antilock brakes).  If ABS-equipped, the clicking or buzzing you hear and the vibration you feel during a sudden stop is the system at work.  Accelerate again, once with the air conditioner on and once with it off, to experience the power drain associated with its operation. 

When you return from your road test, leave the motor running and carefully (with a rag or work gloves) remove the oil filler cap.  If white smoke comes out of the hole it's likely the car has a serious engine problem.  Look at the underside of the filler cap. If it has any water, rust or sludge on it, choose another car to buy.  This indicates a leaky head gasket, a cracked head, or a cracked engine block.  The cost to repair these problems might run anywhere from a $750 head job, all the up to a $4500 engine replacement.

Write Down Your Impressions - Now is the time to jot down your thoughts on the particular vehicle you have just driven.  Get out your notebook and collect your thoughts and experiences.  Don't let the salesperson interrupt your thoughts or pressure you into making an offer.  Remind them you are there for a test drive and nothing more.  Politely thank the salesperson for their time, letting them know you'll be in touch.  It is common courtesy to let a salesperson know that you've decided upon another vehicle.  Don't worry about remembering their name and number, I can guarantee you'll have their business card.

The more cars you test drive, the easier your final selection will be.  But remember to follow this outline for every test drive you take. By following our system, your dream car will be calling your name when you finally find it. 

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