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Tips to test driving a car: a Handy Finance guide

Buying a car is an exciting experience, whether it’s your first or an upgrade. A crucial part of the process, however, is the test drive. A test drive is more than just a quick spin; it’s your chance to assess how well the car suits your needs, handles various road conditions, and aligns with your comfort preferences. This guide from Handy Finance will help you maximise your test drive experience with tips to ensure you make an informed decision.

Preparing for your test drive

Research the car

Before stepping foot in the dealership, do some research on the car model you’re interested in. Check out the car’s features, specifications, and common owner reviews. This research can help you understand the car’s strengths and potential weaknesses, giving you a better sense of what to look for during the drive. Additionally, knowing the car’s average price can give you a leg up in negotiations.

Make a list of priorities

Every driver has specific needs and preferences, so create a checklist of the features that are most important to you. Whether it’s smooth handling, good visibility, or advanced tech features, having a list helps keep you focused on the aspects that matter most. Your list might include items like:

  • Handling and steering responsiveness
  • Visibility from the driver’s seat
  • Technology and infotainment options
  • Cabin space and comfort
  • Noise level and insulation

Schedule a convenient test drive

Avoid test driving a car when you’re pressed for time. Scheduling your test drive at a convenient time allows you to thoroughly evaluate the vehicle without feeling rushed. Dealerships are usually flexible with test drive timings, so choose a slot that lets you focus solely on the driving experience.

Maximising your test drive experience

Adjust seat and mirrors for comfort

Before setting off, adjust the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors to ensure you’re in a comfortable driving position. Pay attention to seat support, visibility, and access to controls, as these are essential for long-term comfort. A car that feels good to sit in and provides good visibility will likely enhance your driving experience.

Choose a diverse test drive route

For a comprehensive assessment, request a route that includes various road types. A balanced route might include:

  • City streets: Test how well the car manoeuvres in stop-and-go traffic and how easy it is to park.
  • Highways: Assess acceleration, lane changing, and stability at higher speeds.
  • Curvy or bumpy roads: Test the car’s handling, suspension, and how it absorbs road imperfections.

This variety lets you experience the car’s performance in different situations, giving you a better understanding of its capabilities and comfort.

Focus on key features

Pay close attention to the features you noted in your checklist. Test how the car accelerates, brakes, and handles different speeds. Evaluate the in-car technology, such as the infotainment system, to see if it’s intuitive and easy to use. Take note of any unusual noises or vibrations, which could indicate underlying issues.

Engage with the salesperson

Ask questions about the car’s features, maintenance needs, and any past history if it’s a used vehicle. Inquire about the warranty, service packages, and the overall reliability of the model. The salesperson can provide valuable insights and help answer questions that online research may not cover.

Beyond the basics: additional pips

Try out parking manoeuvres

When test driving, practice parking manoeuvres like parallel parking or backing into a spot. These actions will help you gauge the car’s visibility, turning radius, and ease of handling in tight spaces. Parking ease is especially important if you’ll frequently be in urban environments or parking lots.

Bring a passenger for perspective

Having a friend or family member with you can provide a different perspective on the car’s comfort and space, especially in the back seats. A second opinion on the ride quality and interior layout can be valuable, particularly if you plan to transport passengers often.

Trust your instincts

Ultimately, your overall impression of the car matters. If something doesn’t feel right, take it seriously. A well-suited car should feel comfortable, easy to handle, and intuitive to drive. Trust your gut feeling, as it can help steer you toward a decision that you’ll be happy with long term.

Ready to find your new car?

When you’re ready to turn that perfect test drive into ownership, Handy Finance is here to support you every step of the way. Our car loan options are designed to be flexible, affordable, and tailored to your needs—whether you’re looking to buy new or used. With competitive interest rates, a straightforward application process, and a team dedicated to helping you find the best financing option, we make it easy for you to drive away in the car you’ve chosen with confidence

Approvals are subject to Handy Finance’s credit criteria and responsible lending requirements. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Finance provided to approved applicants by OurMoneyMarket Lending Pty Ltd ABN 64 605 231 669, trading as ‘Handy Finance’ holds Australian Credit Licence number 488228 and is a member of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, we recommend that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. We recommend you obtain independent advice before acting on any information in this article.