Taking a car out for a test drive, be it used or new, can be a thrill. But if you’re buying second-hand, you’ll need to be especially thorough in your checks. Knowing what to look for could save you a lot of money (and stress) down the line, so whether you’re eyeing up a reliable runaround or a sporty hatchback, use our checklist to help you test drive a used car like a pro.
Pre-test drive preparations
Do your research
Before you go anywhere near the car itself, do your research on the features, specifications and any common issues you can expect with the make and model you are looking to buy. Read reviews from drivers and experts to get an idea of how others have found that vehicle.
Being clued up means you will be well placed to assess the quality and roadworthiness of the car when you take it out for a spin.
It might also help to make a list beforehand of what to look out for (there’s a lot to remember) so you don’t forget anything on the day.
Insurance
You’ll need to have adequate insurance in place before you get behind the wheel. If you’re buying from a dealer, they normally provide cover for test drives; if you’re buying privately, you’ll need to check in with the seller that their policy will cover you or arrange your own temporary insurance.
Documentation review
Make sure the paperwork is all present and correct: namely the V5 logbook, service history and MOT certificates.
Before you get in the car, check for any obvious visible damage: dents or scratches, signs of rust or poor repairs, or any uneven panel gaps.
Inspect the tyres for wear. If you’re not confident you know what you’re looking for, take someone you trust along with you.
Exterior checks
When inspecting the car, check for dents, rust, scratches and mismatched paint, which could be a sign of previous accidents.
Check the depth of the tyre tread (the grooves) – it should be at least 1.6 mm deep. An easy way to check is with the 20p test: insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves in several spots around the tyre. If you can see the outer edge of the coin, the tread is too shallow and the tyre needs replacing.
Test the lights and indicators to ensure they are all working properly.
Check the wipers are in good condition and operating correctly.
Look for cracks or chips in the windscreen and windows.
Interior checks
Next, hop inside and make sure the interior is clean, comfortable and damage-free. Notice any funny smells? Damp or musty smells could spell mould or leaks.
Have a good poke and prod of the interior: sit in all the seats, adjust them, and play with the tech. Turn on the radio, assess the sound quality.
Seats and seatbelts
Sit in all the seats and check the seatbelts – test all the adjustments and ensure they retract smoothly. If you need child seats, make sure there are Isofix bars present in the back.
Controls and electronics
Check the windows open and close properly, check the mirrors, infotainment system and air conditioning. Modern cars come with high-quality entertainment and information features that include touchscreens, navigation systems, blue tooth and USB ports. Be sure you understand how everything works and how intuitive and accessible it all is for you.
Dashboard
Check the horn, hazard lights, indicators and any other controls. Check for any warning lights when you start the engine. Check that the mileage matches the car’s age and service history.
Now comes the fun part – the drive! But before you get behind the wheel, feel the bonnet to ensure the engine is cold, indicating a genuine cold start. If it’s warm, this could mean the seller turned the car on earlier, which may hide an issue with the car’s ability to start.
When you turn on the ignition, listen out for unusual noises and watch for excess smoke or exhaust fumes.
Assess for performance – in other words, how well the car accelerates, brakes and changes gear (if it’s a manual); in essence, how comfortable and easy the car feels to drive. In particular, notice how the car handles corners, hill starts, acceleration and braking. Changing gear should be a smooth process with no jerkiness or noise. Listen out for any unusual vibrations or noises.
Drive on a variety of roads if you can – evaluating how the car performs on different terrains is really important for getting a feel for its capabilities.
What to think about after the test drive
After the test drive, think about how smooth the drive was, how good your visibility was (were you comfortable with the mirror position and any blind spots?) and how easy the car was to manoeuvre. Did anything feel uncomfortable, difficult or stiff?
Think about boot space, accessibility, and passenger- and rear-seat comfort, especially if you are going to be carrying passengers regularly.
If you spotted any little niggles, such as minor dents or unusual engine noises, turn them to your advantage and negotiate a better price, or insist they are fixed before you purchase. Of course, if there are signs of major wear and tear, you don’t like the way the car handles, or if anything just feels off, you are perfectly entitled to walk away.
Compare options. Even if the car felt great, it’s a good idea to test drive a few to get a better idea of what’s out there and what you can expect.
A word about car finance
If you are thinking about going down the car finance route, it’s worth considering your options as soon as you’ve shortlisted a car that suits your lifestyle and budget. Read more about used car finance and how it works.
Don’t feel rushed. Ideally, a test drive should take between half an hour to an hour, and should incorporate varying types of road, including main roads and motorways as well as residential streets and some stop-start traffic.
Many dealers will recommend their own test-drive routes that likely involve a variety of roads, but if you’re buying privately, it’s worth planning your own route beforehand.
Bring a trusted friend or family member with you! This can be incredibly helpful, especially if you’re a new or inexperienced driver. They might spot things you don’t and empower you to ask probing questions or negotiate more successfully. Having a companion can make the whole experience less stressful and more enjoyable.
Test drive several vehicles so you can compare and contrast and make an informed decision based on your preferences. Not every car drives the same way, even if they’re the same model.
Test everything! From the horn to the heated rear window, you’re buying the whole package so it pays to try it all out.
Don’t be afraid to walk away. There are plenty of used cars out there so if something doesn’t feel right, you’ve many other options.
Buying a used car is exciting, but also comes with some important considerations. Taking the time to properly test drive and inspect a car can help you feel confident, avoid hidden problems and make a sound investment. Use this checklist, stay alert, and enjoy the ride!
How long should a test drive last?
A test drive should last at least 30 minutes, ideally an hour. It should incorporate a variety of roads, including major roads and motorways as well as smaller, slower-speed roads, to give you an accurate idea of how the car handles different types of terrain.
Can I test drive a car from a private seller?
Yes, you can, and you should – but make sure you have adequate temporary insurance coverage first, as private sellers may not provide it.
What should I bring for a test drive?
To take a car for a test drive, you’ll need to bring your driving licence, proof of insurance (if required) and a checklist (like this one) of things to inspect and look out for.
