Tips for Test Driving a Used Car

Before you purchase a used car, it's important to take it for a thorough test drive. Not only does this help you see if the model is a good fit for you, but it can also help you discover any potential issues before you buy.

Scott Lot Pre-Owned wants to make sure you're confident about your decision to drive home in a new-to-you vehicle, so we're providing you with our top tips for test driving a used car. Keep them in mind next time you're car shopping in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Emmaus!

Check out our used-car-buying checklist

Inspect the Outside

Before you get in, do a thorough once-over of the car's exterior. Minor dings and scratches are normal in any used vehicle but be aware of any rust or bubbling paint. Common rust spots include any area along the bottom of the car and around the windshield. Make sure the trunk is clean and dry, and all doors open and close easily.

Get Comfortable Inside

See what it feels like in each seat, even the back seats-chances are, you'll be giving friends or family a ride in your car at one point or another, and you want them to be comfortable. Make sure the seatbelts work, and don't forget to check for things like cup holders and USB or charging ports.

Once you settle into the driver's seat, how do you feel? Can you find a seating and steering wheel position that's comfortable? Play around with the mirrors and try to find any blind spots around the vehicle. Do a visual inspection for ripped upholstery and sniff for any unwanted smells that linger.

Turn the Car On

When you turn the car on, listen for any strange noises and keep your eye on the dash for warning lights. Do another walk around to make sure all exterior lights work. While you're outside the running car, check for things like:

• Weird engine noises
• Smelly, dark, or blue exhaust smoke
• Anything dripping from beneath the vehicle

Get back in and play around with temperature and audio controls. Does everything work as expected? Lastly, no matter what the weather is, make sure both the heat and A/C work well, while checking again for any musty smells coming through the vents.

Carefully Start Driving

Turn off the stereo before you continue: You want to be able to focus on how the car feels and stay alert for any weird noises as you start driving. Carefully make your way out of the lot as you get a feel for how responsive the throttle and brake are.

Once you get out on the road, try to drive the car like you own it-you want to see how it responds to your normal driving style. Pay attention to how the vehicle shifts from gear to gear, handles through turns, and slows to a stop.

Take it on a route that shows you its performance under a variety of conditions, from side roads and parking lots to highways. Don't forget to try parking it: After all, you park your car every time you drive it. Plus, this can help you test features like a rearview camera or parking assist.

As you continue driving, ask yourself questions like:

• Does the car pull to one side when you're driving down a straight road?
• Are there any major blind spots as you merge onto the highway?
• Does it accelerate quickly and smoothly?
• Does the steering wheel vibrate when you reach higher speeds?
• When you hit the brakes, do they squeal or pull the car to one side?

What to Bring

It's always nice to get a second opinion from someone you trust, so feel free to bring a friend along while you test drive used cars. They can let you know what it feels like to ride in the backseat and might notice things you don't.

While you're at it, think of the things you commonly carry in your car. If you have a car seat or dog crate, bring it with you to make sure it can easily and securely fit inside.

Ready to Start Test Driving?

These tips for test driving a used car will help you confidently shop for your next vehicle in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Emmaus. When you're ready to put your knowledge-and an extensive lineup of used cars-to the test, contact Scott Lot Pre-Owned to schedule a test drive!

Related Post: Do Miles Matter in Buying a Used Car?

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