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5 Things To Check During a Used Vehicle Test Drive

A young driver repositions the review mirror while test driving a used vehicle.

Taking a test drive is the best way to assess the mechanical and safety features of any vehicle, including used vehicles. At Whiteoak Lincoln, every used vehicle we sell has gone through an extensive inspection process before it enters our inventory, and its CARFAX report is available the moment you request it, but there’s nothing like getting a better feel for a vehicle by giving it a test drive around Mississauga. Read on for 5 things you should check during your test drive of our used vehicles, including the transmission and acceleration, brake responsiveness, suspension and steering,  engine health, along with the electronics and technology, and visit our team when you’re ready to take your test drive!

Transmission and Acceleration

As you drive, see how smoothly the used vehicle accelerates. An automatic transmission should easily shift through gears without any clunking, slipping, or lunging motions. Similarly, a used vehicle with a manual transmission should have a clutch that engages smoothly with no spongy feeling or grinding gears.

Brake Responsiveness

Brakes are extremely important, so test them in a safe area at both low and high speeds. The used vehicle should come to a complete stop without pulling to one side, nor should you hear any squeaks or grinding noises. The brake pedal shouldn’t vibrate when braking and the steering wheel shouldn't either (vibrations during braking are signs the rotors are warped).

A man test drives a used vehicle.

Suspension and Steering

Check how well the used vehicle drives over uneven pavement, speed bumps, and around sharp corners. Listen for popping, squeaking, or clunking noises, as these can indicate issues with the suspension and steering systems. The steering wheel should be responsive and free of dead zones, and the vehicle shouldn’t pull left or right while the steering wheel is dead centre.

Engine Health

When you start the used vehicle, listen for any knocking, ticking, or grinding sounds. Keep an eye on the digital gauge during the test drive in case any warning lights come on, and when you get back to the dealership lot, look under the hood for any signs of burning oil or coolant. 

Electronics and Technology

Newer used vehicles contain advanced safety features, along with technology. Make sure everything works, including the heater, air conditioning, and window controls. Ask our helpful staff about the infotainment system features so they can run you through them while sitting in the vehicle, and check that the backup camera and smartphone connectivity features are functioning as they should be. Similarly, check the windshield wipers, headlights, turn signals, and door locks, as they’re another important part of a vehicle’s electronics system that should be checked.

Take a Used Vehicle for a Test Drive at Whiteoak Lincoln in Mississauga, ON

For a more thorough list of things to check when you test drive a vehicle you plan to purchase, take a look at our dedicated test drive page, where our team at Whiteoak Lincoln has put a handy list of checks to perform. Contact us to learn more about our inventory of used vehicles, and stop by and see us in Mississauga when you’re ready to take your test drive!

Black Rock Team

With a wealth of experience in the automotive industry, the highly skilled team at Black Rock Digital possesses a deep understanding of the field... Our track record includes successful collaborations with top brands and dealerships, allowing us to gain invaluable insights and expertise. Our comprehensive range of services includes brand positioning, market research, digital advertising, content creation, social media management, website copywriting, and the development of technical car review pages.

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