What to look for in a test drive

Motorists hunting for a new car have been offered advice on what to look out for on a test drive.

The experts at LeaseCar.uk have put together their tips to give buyers some idea on what to look for, listen out for and what they should get out of a test drive.

Among the advice is checking the important basics like the brakes, steering, clutch, engine, gears and suspension.

Other practical tips include making sure the car is the right size for you and is comfortable for adult and child passengers.

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “It’s always worth test driving a vehicle before you commit to leasing or buying it. You need to make sure you feel comfortable and enjoy driving the car.

“Give yourself plenty of time – you don’t want to rush – and make sure you pay attention to all the basics and listen out for any strange noises or rattles.

“Also check the appearance of the car inside and out. It will give you some idea of whether it’s been well looked after.”

Here are LeaseCar.uk’s tips for test driving a vehicle.

Appearance

Before you get in, have a walk around the car and look out for any marks, scratches or chips on the bodywork and wheels. Inside, check for any signs of wear and tear.

Engine

Always test drive the car when it’s cold. The engine should be quiet and pull away smoothing. If there’s excessive smoke, the car is pulling then there could be a problem. Listen for any rattles or unusual noises too.

Brakes

Make sure the brakes are responsive and stop the car in a straight line. If they feel weak or spongy then they may need replacing.

Steering

Steering should be responsive. Also check whether it has appropriate power steering.

Clutch and gears

Make sure you test out the clutch and gears. Can you change gears smoothly? And does the clutch start biting before it’s nearly reached to top. If it doesn’t, the vehicle may need a new one and that can be costly.

Suspension

Even if a car’s been sitting on a forecourt for some time, the suspension shouldn’t be noisy. Listen out for knocks, bangs and creaking noisy. If it rattles as you go over bumps, it may need replacement brushes.

Visibility

Check you have good visibility when driving the vehicle. Look out for any blind spots.

Comfort

If you have children, take them with you to make sure there’s enough room in the back of the car and that’s it’s a comfortable journey for them. And have a passenger in the front seat. Is there enough leg room? Is the journey pleasant for them? Make sure you check the boot size, adjust the seats and steering wheel and find out how to fold down any rear seats.

Take control

Don’t feel intimidated when you’re test driving – you’re the one planning to buy or lease the car. Keep your cool and hopefully you can get yourself a good deal.