Discover how to evaluate a car even if your automotive know-how is limited to how to drive.

New or used, you want to test drive a car before committing to a purchase. Here’s what you should look for and how to put your analytical skills to work so you make a wise choice.

Allow ample time to test drive a car

When test driving a vehicle, allow ample time so you don’t have to hurry. And don’t let the salesperson rush you.

Get to know the car before you drive it

Before you get on the road, get acquainted with the car and its systems:

• Adjust the seat and mirrors for your comfort and safety.
• Locate controls for the turn signal, wipers, horn and sound system.
• Get familiar with the climate control system.
• See if the car is compatible with your smartphone. (Be sure to delete your phone from the car’s system before you leave the car.)

If possible, arrange to drive the car in day- and night-time conditions. A night-time test drive will demonstrate how effective the headlights work and how you experience lights from oncoming traffic as a driver.

When you get out on the road, experience the car in as many settings as possible. See how it handles on the highway, city streets and rough pavement.

Use your senses before, during and after the test drive

Give the car a visual inspection before getting in the driver’s seat. What’s the condition of the finish? Are there chips or cracks in the glass?

Pay attention to how the car feels when driven. How well does the vehicle accelerate and stop? Does it shake at higher speeds? How does the car perform going up hills? Does the transmission shift smoothly with gear changes?

Also notice how the car sounds. Is it a smooth, quiet ride? Are the noises that might indicate a problem, like thunks, rattles or other unsettling noises?

Use your nose too. With new cars, this isn’t as much as a priority as with used cars. Any whiff of mildew could indicate prior water damage. If you notice a sweet smell—similar to maple syrup—there may be an antifreeze leak. You may want to avoid any car that smells like cigarette or marijuana smoke. Sniff around outside after you drive the car to see if you detect burning oil.

Using your senses before, during and after the test drive can clue you in to many potential problems.

Who to take along for test drive

If your automotive know-how is limited to how to drive, enlist someone who is knowledgeable about cars and has purchased them before to go with you. They can help you identify a vehicle’s weaknesses and strengths.

If others will use the car regularly, consider a second drive to see how the car suits their needs. If you have a young child, how easy is it to get them into their car seat? If you frequently transport people with limited mobility, how well does the car support their maneuvering in and out of the vehicle? If you and your passengers are taller than average, is there enough legroom to be comfortable?

Does the car fit your lifestyle—and your garage?

Before you head out for a test drive make a list of the ways you plan to use the vehicle. Is the car to be used only by you to commute to work or do you need room to take kids and their gear to soccer games? Does the cargo space need to accommodate a fold-up stroller and/or Abeulo’s walker? Be very specific about the ways you intend to use the car.

Also, if you plan on parking your new ride in the garage, measure how much space you have—all the dimensions: width, height and length. Then check the vehicle manufacturer’s website for vehicle dimensions to see if it will fit your space.

Line up your auto loan before shopping

Before you go car shopping, get pre-approved for an auto loan so you know exactly how much you can afford. With a Consumers vehicle loan, you’ll get competitive rates and convenient financing options.

 

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions. Federally insured by NCUA