What should I check when test driving a used car?

Q: What should I check when test driving a used car?

During the test drive, pay attention to: Starting from cold — ask to start the engine yourself from cold; a warm engine can mask starting issues Unusual noises — knocking, grinding, or whining at different speeds Steering — the car should track straight without pulling to one side Braking — the car shouldn't pull, vibrate, or take longer than expected to stop Gear changes — should be smooth, without crunching or hesitation Warning lights — check the dashboard stays clear once the engine's running Different road types — try to include some faster road driving, not just slow streets, since some issues only show up at speed A 15-20 minute drive covering varied conditions tells you far more than a five-minute loop around the block.

Question

Accepted Answer

During the test drive, pay attention to:

Starting from cold — ask to start the engine yourself from cold; a warm engine can mask starting issues
Unusual noises — knocking, grinding, or whining at different speeds
Steering — the car should track straight without pulling to one side
Braking — the car shouldn't pull, vibrate, or take longer than expected to stop
Gear changes — should be smooth, without crunching or hesitation
Warning lights — check the dashboard stays clear once the engine's running
Different road types — try to include some faster road driving, not just slow streets, since some issues only show up at speed

A 15-20 minute drive covering varied conditions tells you far more than a five-minute loop around the block.