A test drive is your best chance to find problems before you own them. Take your time, turn the radio off, and work through this list.
Before you start the engine
- Ask to start it cold. A cold engine reveals rough starts, smoke and noises that a warmed-up engine can hide.
- Walk around the car. Look for mismatched paint, uneven gaps between panels and overspray, which can point to past body work.
- Check the tires. Uneven wear can mean alignment or suspension problems. See our tire care guide.
- Look underneath. Fresh drips or puddles of oil, coolant or transmission fluid deserve questions.
When you turn the key
- All dashboard warning lights should come on briefly, then go off. A check engine light that stays on needs explaining — see what the check engine light means.
- Listen for ticking, knocking or squealing.
- Test the heat and the air conditioning. A/C repairs can be expensive.
On the road
- Acceleration: smooth and steady, with no hesitation.
- Shifting: no slipping, harsh clunks or delays. Learn the transmission warning signs.
- Braking: straight stops with no pulling, grinding or pulsing pedal.
- Steering: the car should track straight on a level road without you correcting it.
- Highway speed: no vibrations in the wheel or seat around 55–70 mph.
- Bumps: listen for clunks from the suspension.
Back at the lot
- Test every window, lock, light, the horn, wipers and the infotainment system.
- Pop the hood and look for leaks or burnt smells.
- Ask for the vehicle history report and any service records.
Every car on our lot is available for a test drive. Browse inventory and schedule one, or call (704) 984-2427.
