Test Drive Checklist: 10 Things You Should Definitely Test

The test drive is the most important step on the way to your new car. Here you can find out whether the vehicle really suits you and meets your requirements. To make sure you don't miss anything, here are the 10 things you should definitely check during a test drive.

What do you need for a test drive?

Before you can even set off, you should bring some important things with you. Your driver's license is mandatory – without it, you can't take a test drive. Some car dealerships or dealers also require a copy of your ID. It doesn't hurt to call in advance to see if any other documents are needed, especially if you want to test a used car from a private provider. Many car dealerships also require you to sign a liability declaration that applies in the event of damage.

How do you prepare for a test drive?

Good preparation is the be-all and end-all. Think in advance about what is important to you in your new car. Do you need a lot of storage space, quiet driving noises or a comfortable chassis? Write down a list of things you want to test while riding. Also, plan enough time so that you are not rushed. If you regularly travel with children, pets or a lot of luggage, take these factors into account when preparing and bring them with you to the test drive if necessary.

Your test drive checklist

1. Seating position and comfort

Get in the car and adjust the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors. Check that you are sitting comfortably and that you can reach everything well. An ergonomic riding position is crucial, especially if you often ride long distances.

2. Clarity

Pay attention to how well you see from the car. Do you have a clear view to the front, to the side and to the back? If the car has cameras or parking sensors, test whether they help you sufficiently to detect obstacles.

3. Background noise

Drive on different road surfaces and pay attention to how loud the interior is. Do you hear annoying wind, tire or engine noises? A quiet interior contributes a lot to comfort, especially on long journeys.

4. Steering and driving feel

Pay attention to how direct and precise the steering is. Does the car feel stable? Test the driving experience at low speeds in the city as well as on the country road or highway.

5. Braking behaviour

Try the brakes in different situations. Does the brake feel safe and even? Also check that the car remains stable during sudden braking.

6. Suspension and chassis

Drive over potholes, cobblestones, or other uneven roads to test the suspension. Is the chassis rather soft or hard? This shows how pleasant the car will be in everyday life.

7. Engine power and acceleration

Accelerate quickly on an open track and check if the motor is powerful enough for your needs. Observe whether the transmission (in the case of automatic) shifts smoothly or whether there are delays.

8. Technical equipment

Test all the important functions in the cockpit, from the infotainment system to the air conditioning. If the car has assistance systems such as lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control, try them out to see if they work reliably.

9. Manoeuvrability and parking

Maneuver the car in tight corners or in a parking lot. Check how easy it is to turn the car around or maneuver into a parking space. This is especially important if you're often out and about in the city.

10. Your gut feeling

At the end of the test drive, what counts is how you feel in the car. Is it right for you? Is driving fun? If something doesn't seem right, it could be an indication that this vehicle isn't right for you.

Consult an expert

If you are unsure whether you can assess all the technical aspects of the vehicle yourself, you should consider calling in a certified expert. This not only checks the condition of the vehicle, but also detects potential defects that are often difficult for laymen to detect. This gives you additional security, especially with used vehicles.

Conclusion: What is important during the test drive

The test drive is your chance to put the car through its paces. Pay attention to the seating position, the ride quality and all technical functions. Be critical and take your time to make sure the vehicle meets your requirements. In the end, it's all about finding a car that fits you and your everyday life perfectly.

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