Auto advice: When test-driving a car, here’s what to look for and what to bring with you

Published on 13 November, 2022

Overview

How do I get the most out of a test drive?

Boot space is really important in a car, so bring all the stuff you regularly use with you and see if it fits. From prams to golf clubs, if you use it regularly, then it needs to fit. Take any child seats you use with you and check these fit; assess how difficult the seats are to get in the back and how easy these are to install. If you’re going to be ferrying children in the car bring them along and let them evaluate the separate controls and amenities in the back seat.​

What should I be looking for inside?

The cabin of the car is where you will spend a vast amount of time, so touch everything and open everything. See if there is a place for all your essentials. Is it easy to reach storage holders? Are the controls behind the wheels conveniently located and the dials easy to read? Once behind the wheel, can you adjust the seat and steering so you’re comfortable? Are the front seats supportive and is the legroom adequate for you? Can you reach the pedals, and switch easily between the brake and accelerator?

Out on the road what should I consider?

What you are looking for is a good balance between comfort and performance. Is the steering light or heavy? Light steering will make it easier to park but if it’s too light it may not inspire confidence at speed. How refined is the car on the road? Can you hold a conversation with someone in the back comfortably? Test the car, if you can, on a motorway to see how smoothly and effectively the car accelerates.​

How easy is it to park?

Take the car to a car park. The whole point of this is to determine how easy you can manoeuvre the car in a tight space. Reverse-park it into a space and check all-round vision and blind spots. Do you find it easy to see out and can you judge the size of the car?

What should I be looking at if testing an electric car?

If you’re testing an electric vehicle then you should ideally be looking for an extended test drive as you need at least a day or two to assess properly the car’s range as well as the charging times.

​Top Tip: If buying from a dealership you are likely to be insured to test-drive a car but when buying from a private seller you need to check your own car insurance to see if it allows you drive another car with the owner’s permission.

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