Buckle-up, Baby: Test Driving Used Cars the Right Way
Buying a new car, even if new means second-hand, is a process and in an ideal world you wouldnt buy a new car, particularly a used vehicle, without test driving it first. However, test driving a new car, or a demo model of a new car, is different to test driving a used vehicle; you need to pay attention to different things.
Some things to note before even test driving a used vehicle include:
- The fuel efficiency in practice (as opposed to the number on paper youd be sold on if you were buying the car new).
- The mileage.
- The (remaining) tread on the tires.
- The condition of the car under the hood (if you dont know what youre looking for, bring somebody with you.
- Checking the brakes.
- Checking that all the lights (rear, brake, front, interior) are in good working order.
When test driving the vehicle:
Once youve given the car a once-over in the inspection department and are happy to test drive it in its condition you should be paying attention to:
Your ears: You should be listening to the car and listening for any sounds that could indicate a problem with the engine. Roll down the windows while test driving the car and listen for any noises that seem out of the ordinary. A used car will be the first one to tell you that there is something wrong with it if youre just willing to listen. If it doesnt sound right odds are it isnt.
Your gut: Make sure that you get a feel for the car when youre test driving it. Take your sunglasses off and see where youd habitually put them. Try parking the car and see whether or not you can deal with its shape/size comfortably. Measure the boot space comparable to the size of your regular travel luggage. At the end of the day, if the car doesnt feel right, or meet your standard of comfort, you may end up regretting your purchase!
What are some of the steps you recommend following when test driving a used car?
For More Information On Used Cars – Visit WP Motors
