Used Car Test Drive Checklist – Doing It Properly!

Active used car buyers, remember! It’s essential to test drive any potential candidates before making your purchase. A test drive is akin to forming a bond with a vehicle that just feels right, and fulfills your basic budget & tech criteria.

People assume a test drive is just a hassle, but it is much necessary if you need to have a clearer picture of what your car & it’s costs will be like in the long run – and with used cars, there is always a snag!

But what should you be doing during a used vehicle test drive? Here are a few handy tips to get you the most out of your driving experience.

1) Inspect the Interior and Exterior –

Once you’re in the car, take a good look around. Check for any damage to the interior or exterior of the vehicle. Check the paint and look for visible dent signs. If you see anything that concerns you, ask about it.

2) Take It for a Spin –

Once you’re comfortable, take the car for a spin. Drive on various road types and conditions to get a feel for how the car handles. Pay attention to any strange noises or vibrations coming from the car.

3) Test the Features –

Make sure all features in the car are working correctly. Turn on the radio, use the air conditioning and heat, operate the windows and locks, etc. Check out any special features that come with the vehicle. Most used car owners add value to their car by installing accessories or an infotainment system and test these accessories before bargaining a deal.

4) Test the Acceleration Levels –

Pre-owned cars will never offer that ‘new car smell’ or that new car feeling. But you can test the acceleration to see if it’s up to your standards. Try out the car on various terrains, such as an incline or a patch of sand, to see how well it handles.

5) Get a Vehicle History Report –

Even if the seller claims that the vehicle is in excellent condition, always ask for a history report. This will give you details about any accidents, damage, or repairs that have been made to the car. A VHR will also highlight tampering with the engine or the odometer, which indicates that the car has more miles behind than the report suggests.

6) Test Braking and Suspension –

On a quiet side street, brake hard to see how the car responds. You should also pay attention to any unusual sounds or vibrations you feel while braking. While driving, take note of any bumps or potholes in the road and see how the car’s suspension reacts.

7) Ask Questions –

If there’s anything that you’re unsure of, don’t hesitate to ask the seller questions. After all, you want to be confident that you’re making the right decision before signing on the dotted line.

So, ready to take the four-wheeler for a spin? Please browse our inventory of pre-owned cars at Cutter Mazda Honolulu, serving Honolulu, HI. We’ve got a great variety of used cars, trucks, and SUVs for you to choose from.

And when you test drive one of our vehicles, you’ll know just what we mean when we say that “Mazda does it better.”

Please browse our inventory and find your dream car today!

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