A test drive is the cheapest inspection you will ever get. Plan it, take your time and try these twelve things before you talk about price.
Before you start
Ask for the car to be cold. Listen to the first start, look for smoke, and check that every warning light comes on and then goes out.
In town
Try a hill start, tight turns at full lock and a few speed bumps. Listen for knocks from the suspension and feel for a clutch that bites too high.
On the motorway
Hold a steady speed and let go of the wheel for a moment on a straight road. The car should run true, quiet and without vibration.
Afterwards
Park, leave the engine running and look underneath for drips. Then check every switch, window and seat — the small things add up.
On “Test drive checklist: 12 things to try”.
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