How to Test Drive a Car

Buying a car is a significant investment, and a test drive is your opportunity to ensure you're making the right choice before you sign on the dotted line. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current vehicle, this comprehensive guide about how to test drive a car will help you make the most of your trial experience.

Here at 1 Stop Car Sales, we believe that an informed customer is a satisfied customer. That's why we've created this step-by-step guide to walk you through the test drive process. From preparation to post-drive considerations, we'll cover everything you need to know to evaluate a car effectively and confidently.

This guide will help you:

• Prepare effectively for your test drive
• Know what to look for during the drive
• Understand how to assess the car's performance and features
• Make an informed decision about your potential purchase

Whether you're interested in a compact city car, a family SUV, or a luxury saloon, the principles in this guide will apply before you buy… 

Before the Test Drive

Buying a car can be an exciting time so you’ll want to make sure the vehicle you choose suits your needs and drives how you expect it. As such, it’s best to be prepared before a test drive - here’s how:

Research  

Before visiting a dealership like ours, research the models you're interested in. This will help you focus on specific features during the test drive when you should also take the chance to try out some of the onboard technology available. 

Make an Appointment

It’s always best to pre-book a test drive rather than just turning up and requesting one. Booking a test drive in advance means that your vehicle of choice can be prepared ahead of your arrival. 

Bring Necessary Documents

In order to test drive a car, you’ll need to provide your driving licence This is to prove who you are and that you can actually drive. If you hope to buy the car on the same day then you’ll also need to take proof of address and show you have the relevant vehicle insurance to drive it away.  

During the Test Drive

Depending on the dealership you visit, it may be that you are accompanied on the test drive by a member of staff. If this is the case, use it as an opportunity to ask plenty of questions about the car. Here are our top tips during the test drive: 

Make Adjustments 

Before setting off, adjust the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors to your driving height and style. This ensures you can focus exclusively on the driving experience during the test drive and feel as comfortable as possible.

Drive on Different Roads

To get a realistic feel from behind the wheel, try to include different types of roads on your test drive. Where possible, include city streets, B-roads, and if possible, a stretch of dual-carriageway or motorway. 

Check for Comfort

Pay attention to how comfortable you feel in the car. Is there enough head and leg room available? Are the seats supportive? Is the steering wheel nice to hold? 

Test the Features

Try out all the car's features, from the air conditioning to the infotainment system. Make sure they meet your needs and expectations and are easy to use.

Listen for Noises

During the test drive, listen out for any unusual noises you wouldn’t expect to hear. For example, this may be from the engine, brakes, or suspension.

Try Parking

We always recommend practising parking the car during the test drive; try reversing into a car park space and parallel parking too. This will give you a feel for its size and manoeuvrability.

After the Test Drive

Just as you prepare to take a test drive, the period after the test drive is just as important. Always use your time at the dealership wisely - remember that the staff are there to help you: 

Ask Questions

Whether or not you were accompanied on a test drive by a member of staff, use your time after the test drive to ask all the questions you need - this may be about the car itself or the car buying process.  

Consider Another Test Drive

If you're torn between models, don't hesitate to ask for a second test drive. You’ll want to be completely satisfied with your choice and not have any regrets at all. If in doubt, book another test drive before making a final decision. 

Discuss Next Steps

If you're happy with the car following your test drive, then it’s always worth chatting about any additional features, accessories or upgrades you may want for the vehicle. Depending on how you plan to pay for the car, you may also want to enquire about what finance options are available. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Test Drives

We hope our guide to test driving a car proves handy in your search for a new vehicle. If you have any other questions, please refer to our FAQ section below, where we’ve answered your most frequently asked questions relating to test drives:  

Can I legally test drive a car?

Yes, you can legally test drive a car as long as you meet certain requirements. In the UK, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid full driving licence, and be insured to drive the vehicle (although this is usually covered by the dealership's insurance).

Can anyone book a test drive?

While all potential buyers are usually eligible for a test drive, there are some restrictions to consider. For example, you may be refused a test drive without providing your driving licence first, and some high-value or performance cars may have additional requirements.

What should I bring to a test drive?

The most important item to take to a test drive is your driving licence - this must be a valid (in-date) UK licence. If you’re planning on purchasing the car, it’s also worth taking along another proof of address (such as a utility bill), and you may also need to show you’re insured to drive the car away.   

What is the procedure for a test drive?

The typical procedure for a test drive is to contact the dealership to schedule an appointment and arrive with your driving licence. The staff will verify the licence and explain more about the test drive, including the route. You may or may not be accompanied by a member of the team during the drive, but either way, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to discuss your experience and ask any questions. 

How long do test drives last?

Test drives typically last between 15 to 30 minutes. This gives you enough time to experience the car on various road types.

Can I test drive more than one car?

Absolutely! You’ll be encouraged to test drive multiple vehicles to find the perfect match for your needs. You can usually schedule test drives for different cars on the same day or over multiple visits.

Can I bring a friend or family member on the test drive?

Bringing along a trusted friend or family member can prove helpful; they can offer a second opinion and may notice things you might miss.

What should I pay attention to during the test drive?

Focus on how the car handles and performs, the comfort of the seats and the driving position, visibility and blind spots, noise levels (from the engine, road, wind), ease of use of controls and infotainment system, and how well the car meets your specific needs. 

We’re committed to helping you find the perfect car

Here at 1 Stop Car Sales in Peterborough, we're committed to helping you find the perfect car. A thorough test drive is a key part of that process, and we're here to make it as informative and enjoyable as possible.

As independent used car specialists, we take pride in offering an exceptional car-buying experience that's simple, transparent, and tailored to your needs. Our extensive stock of used cars is meticulously maintained and prepared to the highest standards, ensuring you drive away in a vehicle that's second to none. 

Worried about financing? We've got you covered. We work closely with multiple finance specialists to offer affordable terms and can tailor a great-rate finance package that fits your budget perfectly. 

Book a test drive with us today and experience the 1 Stop Car Sales difference!