Different aspects go into choosing the ideal used vehicle. If you have your mindset on it, you may have already considered your budget, requirements, where to shop, and more. But one crucial step is to test-drive the vehicle, and while this process is pretty exciting, there’s no denying that you have to be alert, observant, and mindful while doing it as well. Aside from making sure that you can fit comfortably in the driver’s seat, you also have to look at other factors. So what are these factors? Here’s your absolute guide to test-driving a used vehicle: points to remember.
The importance of a test drive
When you test-drive a used vehicle, it will give you pertinent details about the vehicle that you may otherwise miss if you were just viewing it. Test driving a vehicle is the best way for you to know if it is the ideal make and model for your needs. When you test drive the vehicle, tune out whatever distractions there are and make sure you focus on the vehicle and how it feels.
The following are some aspects you should check and assess, as recommended by used car Utah firms like The Young Automotive Group:
- Does it feel comfortable? Is it easy for you to get into the vehicle and out of it without having to stoop or bang your head?
- Does the vehicle have ample headroom, legroom, and hip room? When you assess this, don’t forget to check the back passenger seats as well.
- When you drive, are you seated comfortably in your position? Is it possible to telescope or tilt the steering wheel so you can fit better?
- How are the car’s seats? Can you adjust them easily? Does the driver’s seat feature lumbar support? How about the seat for the front passenger?
- See if the ‘check engine’ light is on – this can indicate issues with the engine.
- Is the visibility good? You should also check out the car’s rear-view mirror along with the side mirrors. Watch out for blind spots.
- Once you are inside the car, use your sense of smell. Does the car smell musty or moldy? If it does, this could be a sign of a water leak, so you have to investigate this. You should also be wary of the smell of burning oil or gas as this can indicate engine trouble.
- Ask about the age of the tires and check them out. Do the tires have good tread?
- Test the brakes. When you are driving, try to stop suddenly to see if the brakes are working well. Do the brakes squeak?
- Check the hood of the car, even if you are not well-versed with car engines. You can still see if something seems wrong, such as leaks, steam, or too much oil.
- Turn on the heating and air conditioning. Does the heating system give ample heat? What about the coldness of the air conditioner?
- While you are driving, check the headlights and brake lights as well as the turning indicators to see if they work properly.
Once the test drive is over, ask the dealership or owner if you can check the car’s service records, and these will show you the vehicle’s scheduled maintenance has been followed. Good luck, and happy driving!
Eric Reyes is a passionate thought leader having been featured in 50 distinguished online and offline platforms. His passion and knowledge in Finance and Business made him a sought after contributor providing valuable insights to his readers. You can find him reading a book and discussing current events in his spare time.