Skip to Main Content

Tips for Test Driving a Car Before You Purchase

Test drives are a great way to discover more about a car, truck, SUV, or minivan that catches your eye. But test driving a car involves more than just hopping in and going around the block. If you really want an in-depth look at your next new vehicle from Gerry Lane Buick GMC, then here are a few tips you’ll want to check out.
Smiling woman in a dealership sitting in a new vehicle

Have Your Photocopies Ready

Many dealerships will either ask to hold your driver’s license and insurance information or make copies and hold those for the duration of the test drive. Having these documents copied on location takes time, so come prepared with photocopies you’ve made at home. Make sure the photocopies feature the front and back of your driver’s license and insurance card with all information visible. This gives you the option of leaving immediately after the test drive, although you can request the copies be returned to you for proper disposal.

    Don’t Rush Through Your Test Drive

    A test drive allows you to get a good feel for the car you’re about to buy. With that said, the last thing you want to do is rush through a test drive because of prior obligations or scheduling conflicts. Set aside the entire day for test driving the cars on your shortlist, so you’ll have plenty of time to check out each vehicle in-depth.

      Plan Your Route Carefully

      Before you start your test drive, you’ll want to plan a good test loop that starts and ends at the dealership. As you plot your route, make sure you include the following:

      • A rough stretch of road that lets you see how the car handles bumps and rough pavement
      • Another stretch of road that lets you brake quickly from normal speeds
      • A highway for testing the car’s acceleration and passing power
      • An open stretch of road that simulates long-distance driving
      • A parking lot for testing backup cameras and parking sensors, as well as low-speed steering feel
      • A twisty stretch of road that showcases the car’s cornering and overall handling

      Don’t be afraid to drive the car as you would your own, but within reason. Of course, you should also follow all applicable road rules throughout your test drive.

        Request a Test Drive Without the Salesperson

        Having a salesperson in the passenger seat can change the entire dynamic of your test drive. If possible, ask if you can test drive the car without bringing the salesperson along. Most dealerships will agree to this request and some may even let you take the vehicle home overnight.

        If a solo test drive isn’t an option, you can insist on driving your own route as mentioned in the previous section.

          Bring Someone Along for the Test Drive

          Have a family member or a close friend tag along for the test drive. In addition to having a second opinion and a different perspective, your test drive buddy can also spot any issues with the vehicle while you concentrate on driving. If you’re not the primary driver for the car you’re buying, make sure that person spends enough time in the driver’s seat to get comfortable and form their own judgment.

            Familiarize Yourself with the Car

            The last thing you’d want is to be uncomfortable or inconvenienced during your test drive. Before you take off, take the time to do the following:

            • Get yourself familiar with the car’s basic controls, including those for the headlights and windshield wipers. Have the salesperson go over the controls, if necessary.
            • Find the seat controls and adjust them so you’ll be comfortable throughout the test drive. Make sure you have enough headroom and legroom, along with ample lumbar and lower back support. If you can’t find a good seating position, then consider moving on to another car on your list.
            • Don’t forget to adjust the rearview and side mirrors while making note of any blind spots. Note if the vehicle features a blind-spot warning system and how it normally works.
            • Make a note of how you get in and out of the car. Narrow or oddly shaped openings can make you duck or bump your head on the door frame, for example. A car with an uncomfortably low or high ride height can make climbing in and out a chore over the long run.