When you are ready to purchase a used car there are certain steps that you will need to take to ensure that you get a good solid car that will last you a long time. One of the most important aspects when shopping for used cars for sale in Murfreesboro TN is going for a test drive. The test drive will help you get a better understanding about how the vehicle runs. Here are a few tips to help you have a better test drive when you are buying a used car.
Things to do Before You Get into the Car
When you go for a test drive you don’t want to just walk over and immediately get into the car. There are several things that you should do first
- Look in the Trunk – see how big it is and if it will carry the things that you need it to carry.
- Look at the Owner’s Manual – if there isn’t one ask the dealer if there have a copy
- Inspect the Windshield – make sure there are no chips, cracks or other issues. Also take a look at the windshield wipers to see what kind of condition they are in.
When You Get Into the Car
As you are getting into a used car for sale take note of how easy or difficult it is. Adjust the seat so that you have the right amount of space to reach the pedals. Do you have enough space above your head? Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Are there any odd odors that you can detect? These are important things to take note of before you begin to drive. Now look around the car and take note of the condition of the seats and the floor. Adjust your mirrors so that you can see and familiarize yourself with the turn signals and headlights. Check the radio to see if it works and how it sounds. Turn on the heat and the air conditioning to make sure they both work.
Going for the Test Drive
When you are out test driving the car you want to test the way it handles in a wide variety of Murfreesboro TN traffic. Drive on smooth roads as well as bumpy roads if possible. See how the car does in stop and go traffic as well as on the interstate at higher speeds. You want to try to replicate the type of driving you will be doing in the car to see how it will perform. Notice how the car feels as you drive. Does it pull to one side or another? Are there any funny sounds? Do the brakes engage properly? These are all important things to be aware of during your drive.
