Guides / Buying and selling
A test drive that tells you something
A short loop around the block reveals very little. A planned test drive on different roads tells you far more about the car you might own for years.
What to know
- Start it cold
- Ask the seller not to warm the car up before you arrive. Hard starts and noises are easier to notice from cold.
- Mix the roads
- Drive in stop-and-go traffic, on a highway, over bumps and in a parking lot at full steering lock.
- Listen and feel
- Notice clunks over bumps, grinding or pulling when braking, slipping or harsh gear changes, and vibration at speed.
- Check everything inside
- Air conditioning, heat, windows, locks, lights, wipers, seats and every warning light on the dash.
- Look underneath and around
- Check for leaks under the car, uneven tire wear and mismatched paint or panel gaps that can signal past repairs.
Questions to ask
- Has the car been in any accidents or had major repairs?
- When were the tires, brakes and battery last replaced?
Where to check
- Our free Used Car Inspection Checklist
- A printable checklist to take on the test drive.
General information for US drivers, not financial, legal or mechanical advice for your situation. Consumer protection, title and lemon laws vary by state. The Nickel Stretcher isn't paid by any dealer, lender, insurer or brand mentioned here.