Test Drive: 15 Points You Should Definitely Check

Why the test drive is so important

A car can look perfect in photos and in the listing, but only a test drive shows whether it really suits you. The test drive is the most important step before buying a car and should never be skipped. Statistics show that buyers who take a thorough test drive are significantly more satisfied with their purchase.

But what exactly should you check during the test drive? Many buyers simply drive once around the block and rely on their gut feeling. That is not enough. With our 15-point checklist, you take a systematic approach and spot potential problems before you sign the purchase contract.

Before the test drive: the right preparation

Plan the appointment and route

Arrange the test drive for a time when you are not under time pressure. Allow at least 30–45 minutes, preferably an hour. The ideal route includes:

• An urban stretch (city traffic, pulling away, braking)
• Country roads (different speeds, bends)
• Motorway (acceleration, wind noise, stability)
• A mountain road (engine power, gear changes)

What you should bring

• A valid driving licence
• The clothes and shoes you typically wear every day
• If you have one: your child seat to test the fit
• This checklist (digital or printed)

The 15-point checklist

1. Check the cold start

Ask the seller not to warm up the car in advance. A cold start reveals a lot about the condition of the engine. Pay attention to:

• Does the engine start immediately?
• Any unusual noises when starting (ticking, rattling)?
• Smoke from the exhaust (blue smoke = oil burning, white smoke = coolant)?
• Does the engine idle smoothly?

2. Seating position and ergonomics

Before you set off, take time to adjust everything:

• Can the seat be set to a comfortable position?
• Can you reach all the controls easily?
• Do you have a good view to the front, rear and sides?
• Does the headrest fit your height?
• What is the view like over your shoulder (blind spot)?

3. Steering and steering feel

When pulling away and in bends:

• Is the steering precise, or does it have play?
• Does the steering feel consistent at different speeds?
• Does the car pull to one side on a straight road? (This can point to suspension problems or uneven tyre wear.)
• Does the steering wheel vibrate at certain speeds?

4. Test the brakes

The brakes are critical for safety, so test them thoroughly:

• Does the car brake evenly without pulling to one side?
• Are there vibrations in the brake pedal? (A sign of warped brake discs.)
• How long is the braking distance: do you have to press unusually hard?
• Do the brakes squeal or grind?
• Test an emergency stop on a clear stretch of road (the ABS should engage cleanly)

5. Gearbox and gear changes

With a manual gearbox:

• Can the gears be engaged easily and precisely?
• No grinding or resistance when changing gear?
• Does the clutch bite evenly (and not only at the end of the pedal travel)?
• Does the clutch slip under hard acceleration in a high gear?

With an automatic:

• Are gear changes smooth and barely noticeable?
• No jolting or hesitation when changing gear?
• Does reverse engage cleanly?
• Does kickdown work at full throttle?

6. Engine power and acceleration

• Does the car have enough power for your needs?
• Does it accelerate evenly without misfiring?
• How does the engine behave when overtaking on country roads?
• Are there unusual vibrations at certain engine speeds?

7. Suspension and springs

• How does the car react to uneven road surfaces?
• Does the vehicle keep rocking, or does it settle cleanly?
• Any knocking or rattling over potholes?
• How does the car handle in bends (body roll)?

8. Noise levels

Switch off the radio and air conditioning and listen carefully:

• Engine noise at different engine speeds
• Wind noise at higher speeds (are the seals OK?)
• Road noise (tyre rolling noise, wheel bearings?)
• Rattling or creaking from the interior

9. Air conditioning and heating

• Does the air conditioning cool quickly and sufficiently?
• Is there an unpleasant smell from the ventilation? (This can point to mould in the system.)
• Does the heating work evenly on both sides?
• Can the temperature be adjusted smoothly?

10. Electronics and infotainment

• Do all the electric windows work?
• Can the mirrors be adjusted electrically?
• Do the navigation system and Bluetooth connection work?
• Does the reversing camera show a clear image?
• Do the parking sensors beep correctly?

11. Visibility and lighting

• Do all the headlights, indicators and rear lights work?
• Do the wipers work cleanly, without streaks?
• Does the screen washer spray evenly?
• No moisture or condensation in the headlights?

12. Parking and manoeuvring

Test the car in realistic situations:

• How good is the visibility when parking?
• Do the parking sensors and reversing camera work?
• How large is the turning circle?
• Can you judge the dimensions of the vehicle well?

13. Child seat compatibility

If you have children:

• Do your child seats fit on the rear seat?
• Are there enough Isofix points?
• Do the rear doors open wide enough?
• Is there enough space between the front seat and the child seat?

14. Practical boot test

• Does your typical load fit (pushchair, shopping, sports equipment)?
• Can the rear seat be folded down easily?
• Is the load floor flat?
• Is there a cover or a separating net?

15. Exhaust behaviour after the drive

After the test drive, take another look at the exhaust. Is water dripping out (normal with a cold engine) or oil (a problem)? What does it smell like? Burnt oil or coolant points to engine problems.

After the test drive: evaluating it correctly

Emotions vs. facts

After a test drive, you are often thrilled, or disappointed. Both can be deceptive. Go through your checklist calmly and evaluate it objectively. Sleep on it before you decide.

A second test drive

For a used car costing over CHF 15'000, a second test drive is absolutely justified. Drive a different route the second time, or bring along someone knowledgeable.

Ask questions

Don't be afraid to ask the seller questions:

• Why is the car being sold?
• Have there been any accidents or major repairs?
• How was the car used (long distances, city traffic)?
• Are there any known problems?

Arrange a test drive at Car Trade24

At Car Trade24, a thorough test drive goes without saying. We give you the time you need to test the vehicle you want thoroughly, without pressure and with transparent information about every vehicle. Arrange your appointment by phone or via our contact form. Try out the checklist on the Seat Ibiza, the Hyundai i30 or the VW Golf, for example, and work out the monthly rate in advance with the leasing calculator.

Conclusion

A thorough test drive protects you from costly bad buys. Use our 15-point checklist, take enough time and don't let yourself be pressured. Your future car should not only impress on paper, but also on the road.