Before you buy, learn what to check during a test drive to avoid costly surprises down the road.
A test drive is your best opportunity to evaluate a vehicle before committing to a purchase. Here's what our experts recommend checking:
Pre-Check
Before you even start driving, take a moment to:
- Adjust mirrors — Make sure you have good visibility in all directions.
- Check for blind spots — Evaluate how much of your surroundings you can see.
- Test AC and electronics — Turn on the climate control, radio, and other features to ensure they work properly.
The Drive
Once you're on the road, pay attention to:
- Braking feel — Listen for any grinding sounds when you apply the brakes.
- Steering response — The car should respond accurately without "wandering" or pulling to one side.
- Transmission smoothness — Shifts should be seamless, not jerky or delayed.
Highway Test
If possible, take the vehicle on the highway to check:
- Wind noise — Excessive noise could indicate poor sealing or body damage.
- Vibrations — Any shaking at speed could signal transmission, tire, or alignment issues.
- Passing power — Make sure the engine has adequate power for safe merging and overtaking.
At Sherwood Auto Repair, we offer pre-purchase inspections to give you peace of mind before you buy.
Ready to schedule your next service?
Our team is here to give you an honest assessment and expert repairs.
Schedule an Appointment