A test drive is your chance to find problems a seller hasn't mentioned. Plan for at least 20 minutes, turn the radio off and give the car your full attention.
Before you drive
✓Feel the bonnet. A warm engine before you arrive hides cold-start problems, so ask the seller why it has been running.
✓Turn the ignition on without starting and check that all warning lights illuminate, then go out once the engine runs.
✓Check the seat, mirrors and seatbelts all adjust and lock properly.
Starting the engine
Listen for rattles, ticking or squeals on start-up, and look behind the car for blue or white smoke. A healthy engine should settle into a smooth, steady idle within a short time.
On the road
✓Brakes: the car should pull up straight with no grinding, squealing or pulsing through the pedal.
✓Steering: on a straight road the car shouldn't pull to one side, and the steering wheel should sit straight.
✓Gear changes: shifts should be smooth with no slipping, flaring revs or clunks.
✓Suspension: drive over a few bumps and listen for knocks or rattles from underneath.
✓Acceleration: it should be even, with no hesitation, misfiring or warning lights.
Check everything inside
Run the air conditioning on cold and the heater on hot, and test windows, locks, lights, indicators, wipers, the horn and the infotainment. Electrical repairs can be surprisingly expensive.
After the drive
✓Leave the engine idling and check the temperature gauge stays steady.
✓Look under the car for fresh drips of oil, coolant or transmission fluid.
✓Check for any warning lights that appeared during the drive.
A test drive is a good filter, but it isn't a mechanical inspection. If the car passes your drive, that's the time to book an independent inspection.General information only. For advice on a specific vehicle, book an inspection with a licensed mechanic.