Thinking about buying a new car? The test drive is the moment you get to feel the car’s personality. But many buyers aren’t sure how long the drive should be or what they should actually pay attention to. Let’s clear that up so you can walk away with a decision you trust.
Experts agree that a proper test drive needs at least 30 minutes. That gives the engine time to warm up, lets you try city traffic, a few highway miles, and a quick stop‑and‑go. If you have the chance, push it to 45‑60 minutes. A longer drive reveals how the car handles different speeds, how the brakes feel after they heat up, and whether any rattles appear when you hit a bump.
Don’t just zip around the lot for a minute. A short spin might feel great, but you’ll miss issues like steering alignment, cabin noise at highway speeds, or how comfortable the seat is on a longer haul. Ask the dealer for a route that includes a few city blocks, a highway stretch, and a couple of turns.
While you’re behind the wheel, keep an eye on these key areas:
Take notes on each point. If something feels off, ask the dealer for a second look or a test drive in a different model.
Another practical tip: bring a friend who isn’t familiar with the car. Fresh eyes (or ears) often spot things you miss when you’re focused on driving.
When the test drive ends, the paperwork often shows extra fees. Common ones you can refuse include dealer documentation fees, advertising surcharges, and unnecessary under‑coating fees. Ask the dealer to explain each line item. If a fee feels vague, request it be removed.
Also, remember that a test‑driven new car is still considered new, even if the odometer shows a few miles. That means you shouldn’t be penalised with a lower price unless the dealer explicitly offers a discount for a high‑mileage demo.
Driving a car you don’t own can feel risky. Keep these safety habits in mind:
A crash during a test drive is rare but can happen if you’re distracted or the car has a hidden defect. Stay alert, follow traffic laws, and treat the drive as a thorough review, not a joy‑ride.
By giving yourself enough time, checking the right details, and watching out for extra fees, you’ll turn the test drive into a powerful decision‑making tool. Next time you head to the showroom, you’ll know exactly what to do – and what to avoid – for a confident purchase.
