What Should You Look for on a Test Drive?

At Sandicliffe, we know that choosing a car is about more than finding a model that looks right. A test drive gives you the opportunity to see how a car actually feels on the road and whether it suits your everyday driving needs.

Whether you’re looking at a new car or a used car, taking the time to properly test drive a vehicle can help you make a more informed decision. But what should you be looking for when you get behind the wheel?

Here are some of the key things to check during a test drive.

1. Get Comfortable Behind the Wheel

Before setting off, take a few moments to get comfortable.

Adjust the driver's seat, steering wheel and mirrors to find a position that feels natural. Make sure you can easily reach the pedals and controls and that you have good visibility around the vehicle.

If you regularly drive with passengers, it’s also worth considering how comfortable they will be. Think about legroom, headroom and access to the rear seats.

A car might look ideal on paper, but if you don't find it comfortable to drive, it may not be the right choice for you.

2. Check Visibility

Good visibility is important for everyday driving, particularly when parking or driving in busy areas.

Pay attention to how easy it is to see through the windscreen and side windows, as well as how much of the road you can see through the mirrors.

If the car has features such as a reversing camera, parking sensors or a 360 degree camera, try them out during the test drive. These features can make manoeuvring and parking much easier.

3. Listen to the Engine and Road Noise

Take a moment to listen to how the car sounds while you're driving.

You should expect some level of engine and road noise, but unusual noises such as rattling, knocking, squeaking or grinding are worth paying attention to, particularly when considering a used car.

Try driving at different speeds and on different types of roads where possible. This can give you a better idea of how refined the car feels during everyday driving.

4. Test the Brakes

When it is safe to do so, pay attention to how the brakes feel.

The brake pedal should feel responsive and predictable, without excessive vibration or unusual noises. You should also feel confident that the car slows down smoothly.

Avoid carrying out harsh braking simply to test the brakes. Normal braking during the test drive should give you a good indication of how they feel.

5. Pay Attention to the Steering

The steering should feel comfortable and predictable.

Try making a few turns and, where appropriate, drive at different speeds to see how the steering responds. Check whether the car feels easy to control and whether it holds its line when driving on a suitable, safe road.

If the steering feels unusually heavy, loose or inconsistent, it is worth asking the dealership about it.

6. Try Different Types of Roads

If your test drive allows, try to experience the car in a variety of driving conditions.

For example, you could drive on:

• Local roads

• A dual carriageway

• Motorways

• Residential streets

• Roads with bends and roundabouts

Different roads can highlight different aspects of a car. A vehicle that feels comfortable around town may feel very different at motorway speeds, while a longer drive can give you a better idea of overall comfort.

If most of your driving is commuting, make sure you consider how the car would feel during your usual journey.

7. Test the Gearbox

If you're driving a manual car, pay attention to how easily the gears engage and how the clutch feels.

For an automatic car, see how smoothly the gearbox changes between gears and how it responds when accelerating or slowing down.

If you're considering an electric or hybrid vehicle, the driving experience can feel different from a conventional petrol or diesel car. Take some time to understand how the vehicle responds when accelerating, braking and coming to a stop.

8. Try the Technology and Controls

Modern cars can come with a wide range of technology, so don't be afraid to try it during your test drive.

Depending on the vehicle, this could include:

• Infotainment systems

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

• Navigation

• Parking cameras and sensors

• Driver assistance systems

• Climate control

• Heated seats

• Adaptive cruise control

• Digital instrument displays

Check that the controls are easy to understand and that you can access the features you are likely to use regularly.

There's little benefit in having lots of technology if you find it difficult to use while driving.

9. Consider Passenger and Boot Space

If you regularly carry passengers, children, pets or luggage, make sure you think about how practical the car will be for your lifestyle.

Check the rear seats and boot space rather than relying solely on the figures listed in the vehicle's specifications.

If you have a child seat, wheelchair, pushchair or other large items that you regularly carry, it can also be useful to bring them with you and see how easily they fit.

10. Think About Your First Impression

Once you've finished your test drive, take a moment before making a decision.

Ask yourself:

• Was I comfortable?

• Did I feel confident driving the car?

• Was it easy to park and manoeuvre?

• Did I have enough space?

• Was the technology easy to use?

• Did the car suit the type of driving I normally do?

• Could I see myself driving it every day?

It's easy to focus on specifications, prices and features, but how a car feels behind the wheel is just as important.

What Should You Ask After a Test Drive?

A test drive is also a good opportunity to ask questions about the vehicle.

If you're looking at a used car, you may want to ask about its service history, mileage, previous ownership and any work that has recently been carried out.

You can also ask about available finance options, warranties, vehicle specifications and what is included with the purchase.

If you're considering part exchanging your current vehicle, you can also discuss your part exchange options with the dealership.

Book a Test Drive with Sandicliffe

Taking a test drive is one of the best ways to find out whether a car is right for you. Rather than simply looking at photographs and specifications, you can experience the car for yourself and see how it performs in the situations that matter to you.

Whether you're searching for a new car, a used car, an electric vehicle or a particular make and model, the team at Sandicliffe can help you explore your options and arrange a test drive.

Summary

Make the most of your test drive by checking the car's comfort, visibility, steering, brakes, gearbox, technology, practicality and overall driving experience. The more you test during your drive, the easier it will be to decide whether the vehicle is right for you. When you're ready to explore your options, visit your local Sandicliffe dealership and speak to our team about booking a test drive.