How to Test Drive a Car
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If you commute, drive the car in both stop-and-go traffic and at freeway speeds. If you frequently drive into the mountains, try to find some steep grades to climb. Drive over bumps, take tight corners at aggressive (but not dangerous) speeds and test the brakes in a safe location, such as a deserted parking lot.
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Get in and out of the car several times and be sure to sit in the back seat, especially if you plan on carrying passengers. In short, ask yourself what it will be like to live with this car for a number of years.
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While you are evaluating the car, don't be distracted by the salesperson's pitch.
- Don't drive with the radio on — you can evaluate that later. A new car is a big investment; make sure you spend enough time really looking at it. This is particularly important if you are test driving a used car, as you will want to spend at least a couple of minutes listening to the engine at different speeds.
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Follow your intuition. If you are uneasy about this car, don't buy it. A vehicle purchase decision is too important (and expensive) to undertake without total confidence.
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If you live in a hot climate, you need to test the car with the air conditioning on. Some cars' performance will be affected while the A/C is on.
