Test Drive Checklist
Visibility: Can you see the end of the hood and the trunk? Does any part of the car block your vision? Can you easily see all the mirrors?
Safety Features: Check for seat belts, brakes and child safety locks.
Steering Wheel Placement: Are you comfortable behind the wheel? Is it easy to adjust the steering wheel, the seat, and mirrors?
Entry/Exit: Is it easy to get in and out of the car from each position?
Seating: Does each passenger have plenty of head and legroom? Check rear seats too.
Instrumental Panel and Controls: While driving, can you quickly and easily check the speedometer and fuel gauge? Try the windshield wipers, lights, turn signals, and other functions to see how easy they are to operate. Check the climate controls.
Trunk: Is there enough space in the trunk or cargo area? Is it easy to get to the spare tyre?
Engine: Does it accelerate smoothly? Does it have enough "passing power?" Slow down and speed up a few times to check out the responsiveness of the engine. Does the engine idle smoothly, or does it appear to race?
Transmission: Check the feel of the clutch, and the ease of shifting gears.
Ride: Is the ride smooth? Does it offer responsive handling that makes you feel comfortable in all road conditions?
Parking: Does your car maneuver easily into a parking space? Does the steering wheel turn easily? Parallel park the car. Does any part of the car obstruct your view?
Braking: Take the car out to a stretch of empty road, accelerate to about 40 kmph and make an emergency stop. Does the car stop in a straight line without pulling to one side? Do the brakes lock up?
Steering/Handling: When your grip is relaxed on the steering wheel, does the car drift? Is the car stable when you turn corners?
Noise Levels: With windows closed, listen to the noise level. Listen for engine noises when accelerating. At lower speeds, listen for road noises and tyre sounds.
Exterior: Is the car's finish glossy and even? Check for evenly aligned body panels and secure trim.