The test drive

The Start Up

The first few moments when starting a vehicle are the most revealing. You have no prior knowledge of any problems to "drive around" and cold cars are willing to display their faults than warm ones. Therefore doubts should be raised with pre-warm vehicles.

• Oil pressure light should almost immediately disappear upon start-up. Suspect serious engine wear if it doesn’t, or appears again during the test drive.
• Smoke shouldn’t be apparent, especially in modern catalysed petrol cars. Diesel cars may smoke a little if revved. If you see blue smoke at any time just walk away.
• Clatters may be heard a few seconds after start up, but should disappear when the oil starts to flow. If they take a long time to disappear start to worry.
• Steering should be used on full lock – both ways to check for any play or knock in the system that suggests wear or damage.

Be convinced that everything is ok. Walk away if you aren’t satisfied as there are many more vehicles on the market. Your safety is more important than losing face, so make your excuses and leave.

Moving Away

There is plenty to concentrate on when first moving away in the vehicle.

• Heavy clutch and reluctant gear changes are signs of a, worn out and old vehicle.
• Slipping clutches are also easy to spot – give it plenty of gas in a high gear, and listen to the engine note. If the revs increase without there being any acceleration, the clutch has a problem.
• Smoke is often produced under acceleration by worn out engines, so watch carefully in the mirrors.

On the Move

As your drive progresses, make sure you stay alert.

• "Wandering," on straight roads – a car that won’t drive in a straight line often indicates serious, possibly dangerous suspension damage. Also beware if the car lunges towards the kerb under braking.
• Brakes should be firm, not make any undue noises, and not "judder" when applied heavily. Also make sure the handbrake works.
• Suspension should be quiet and not rattle or knock when on the move.
• Engine noises are often easy to spot. Listen for any odd clatters or rumbles, because if it doesn’t sound right, it probably isn’t.
• Sluggishness indicates worn engines, too. If it's slower than expected, there's probably a reason why. Has it been poorly maintained or clocked?

Back to Base

Before you reach a conclusion, there are still a few areas to cover.

• Temperature gauges should be in the normal zone! Worry if they aren’t.
• Look under the bonnet for any oil leaks, water or hydraulic fluid. Also watch out for wisps of smoke.
• Check the oil filter cap for any white residue. If present, the cylinder head gasket has gone – serious and expensive.