A test drive is one of the most important parts of buying a car. It’s your opportunity to find out whether a vehicle suits your driving style, lifestyle and budget before making a commitment.
Buying a car can be exciting, but it’s important not to rush the decision. A thorough test drive can help you spot potential issues, compare different models and make sure you’re choosing a vehicle you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Here are our top tips for getting the most out of a test drive.
1. Consider the Size of the Vehicle
Before setting off, think about how you’ll use the car on a daily basis.
If you’re buying a family vehicle, consider:
- Passenger space.
- Rear seat comfort.
- Boot capacity.
- Ease of access.
If other family members will regularly use the car, it can be helpful to bring them along. This allows everyone to assess comfort levels and identify any potential concerns before you buy.
2. Get Comfortable Inside the Car
Before driving away, spend a few minutes familiarising yourself with the vehicle.
Check that you can comfortably:
- Adjust the seat.
- Reach all controls.
- Position the steering wheel.
- Set the mirrors correctly.
Start the engine and pay attention to how the car feels at idle. Listen for unusual noises and ensure all dashboard warning lights operate as expected.
Comfort is particularly important if you’ll be spending long periods behind the wheel.
3. Test the Technology and Controls
Modern vehicles often come equipped with a wide range of technology features.
Before buying, check that key systems are working properly, including:
- Air conditioning.
- Heating controls.
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Infotainment system.
- Navigation features.
- Parking sensors and cameras.
- Electric windows and mirrors.
Repairing electronic systems can be expensive, so it’s worth testing everything before making a decision.
4. Evaluate the Driving Experience
During the test drive, focus on how the vehicle performs in different situations.
Pay attention to:
- Acceleration.
- Braking performance.
- Steering response.
- Gear changes.
- Ride comfort.
Listen for unusual noises and note any vibrations or handling issues.
If possible, include a mix of driving environments such as:
- Town roads.
- Dual carriageways.
- Motorways.
- Hills or inclines.
This will give you a more complete picture of how the car performs in everyday use.
5. Inspect the Vehicle for Damage
Before and after the test drive, take time to inspect the vehicle carefully.
Look for:
- Scratches.
- Dents.
- Paint damage.
- Windscreen chips.
- Uneven panel gaps.
- Excessive tyre wear.
Even nearly new vehicles can have cosmetic damage, so it’s worth carrying out a thorough visual inspection.
6. Test Parking and Manoeuvrability
A vehicle may feel great on the open road but difficult to manoeuvre in tighter spaces.
Try:
- Parking in a bay.
- Reversing.
- Performing low-speed turns.
- Checking visibility from all angles.
This is especially important if you’re considering a larger vehicle than you’re currently used to driving.
7. Compare Multiple Vehicles
Even if the first car impresses you, it’s usually worth test driving several alternatives.
Driving different vehicles back-to-back makes it easier to compare:
- Comfort.
- Practicality.
- Features.
- Performance.
- Overall value.
A direct comparison often highlights differences that aren’t obvious when driving just one vehicle.
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8. Stay Level-Headed
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a car, but try to remain objective throughout the process.
Don’t feel pressured into making an immediate decision.
Take time to consider:
- The vehicle’s condition.
- Running costs.
- Practicality.
- Purchase price.
- Long-term suitability.
If you’re unsure, ask for another test drive or take some time to think before proceeding.
For more advice on vehicle values, depreciation and making informed buying decisions, visit Jamjar’s valuation guidance hub.
Final Thoughts
A test drive is about more than simply seeing whether a car feels nice to drive. It’s your chance to assess comfort, practicality, condition and overall suitability before making a significant financial commitment.
Taking the time to inspect the vehicle properly and compare multiple options can help you make a more informed decision and avoid costly mistakes later on.
If you’re planning to change vehicles, it’s also worth understanding the current value of your existing car before you buy your next one.
Get a free online valuation with Jamjar today and see how much your car is worth with our free online valuation tool.