One in six drivers skips the test drive when buying a car. While that might not seem like much, it’s roughly 17 in every 100 car buyers that simply don’t know how it feels to interact with the second most expensive thing the American adult will ever purchase. Don’t skip the test drive. More importantly, look, listen, and feel for the right things while you test out your next ride. 

So you found a car or a few options you like– now it’s time for the all-important test drive

Let’s say you find the new or used car you want. Right title status, tolerable mileage, the works. That’s great. But you should insist on a test drive. Better yet, you should keep these things in mind before you buy.

1. Test drive the exact model, trim, and engine choice that you want

It might sound obvious, but you should test drive the exact vehicle you want, down to the trim, engine, and transmission you want. Don’t settle for the smaller engine option or non-hybrid if that’s not what you want. Only then will you know how it feels to drive your intended purchase. 

2. Drive your top choices in a short period

Don’t limit yourself. If you’re not sold on one specific make and model, test drive as much of your intended segment as possible. Moreover, drive them all in rapid succession. Make comparisons. You might discover that you prefer a close rival to the vehicle you considered a frontrunner. 

3. Try to take your test drive sans salesman

While some salespeople might insist on coming along, request to take your test drive alone. Doing so will allow you to experience the vehicle without the added pressure of a stranger attempting to defeat your concerns. 

4. Walk around the vehicle, noting fit and finish

Before you get to driving, take a moment to walk around the vehicle. Note the fit and finish of the vehicle. Pay attention to panel gaps, rattles, and repainted sections. While the likelihood of past damage is low with a new car, used cars could be concealing past damage.  

5. Note how it drives beyond the obvious

Granted, you want to test drive the car to make sure it’s mechanically sound. However, you should also experience it in the way that you’ll be using it. Does it have enough power to merge with fast-moving traffic? Are the brakes responsive? Most importantly, do you enjoy driving it? Keep these things in mind. 

6. Pay close attention to the comfort and usability of interior features

Now that you’re in the car, start messing with things. Can you reach every control? Do you find the gauges readable? Is there enough storage? You don’t have many options for adding cubbies to an existing interior. 

7. Listen and look for things you can’t live with

Whether the vehicle is new or used, listen, look, and feel for rattles, squeaks, quirks, and features that you don’t like. After all, the average American spends around one hour commuting in a car every day. That’s enough to drive someone batty in the wrong car. 

8. Play with the infotainment system

See that center screen? Do your research and play with it. It costs money to update or change a vehicle’s infotainment system. You should find your touchscreen companion responsive and easy to use. 

9. Expect the upsell, stick to your guns

Always expect the hard sell. You might find that the base model is good enough, but the salesperson is almost always going to try to upsell you to a higher trim or pricier ride. Try not to be too enthusiastic, even if you thoroughly enjoyed the test drive. Instead, stick to your guns and consider your options before pulling the trigger. 

10. Consider bringing a friend

Everyone has that instigating friend. However, taking a buddy along for your test drive can help. They can notice things you may overlook. Moreover, your friend can help you stay as objective as possible when choosing a car.