Test drive

Before starting up:

Put the key in the ignition and give it a partial turn, but don't start the engine yet. A few warning lights are likely to flash. This is OK as long as they go out within a few seconds. If any lights stay on - especially those for brakes or coolant level - ask some questions.

Starting the engine:

Start the car up, with the engine cold if possible (this makes problems more noticeable). The starter motor should turn over quickly and the motor should catch quickly. Listen for odd noises like backfires or a rattling exhaust. Make sure the oil pressure light goes off after the car has been running for a few seconds.

Refer to Under the hood about smoke emerging from the exhaust.

During the drive:

Listen carefully to the engine and other parts of the car - you don't want to hear any odd noises that could indicate problems.
Clanging or clunking noises when starting and stopping could mean problems with engine mountings, exhaust, suspension, transmission or the drive shaft. Any tapping or knocking noises from the engine could indicate a serious and expensive problem.

Grinding or whining can mean worn gears or bearings - expensive repairs.
Squealing noises or roughness felt through the pedal or steering wheel when braking may mean new brake pads or linings are needed.

Listen carefully when driving at low speed on full steering lock in each direction (use a carpark for this test). Rhythmic clunks from the front of the vehicle may indicate the drive shaft joints are badly worn and will need replacing.

Smelly car:

The smell of burning oil can mean a worn-out engine. If you can smell exhaust fumes while you are driving, you may have an exhaust leak. This can be very dangerous, as carbon monoxide leaks can poison you and your passengers and you could pass out behind the wheel.

Check the power:

The engine should pull smoothly when you accelerate, without any stalls or power losses. When you take your foot off the accelerator, the engine should also power down smoothly.

Find a hill to drive on. How does the car drive going up the hill? This is a good time to watch for blue smoke from burning oil coming out of the exhaust. Go down the hill with your foot off the accelerator. At the bottom of the hill, push down on the accelerator again. If the engine is old and worn, it may take a while to accelerate and you may see another big puff of smoke out the back.

Check the brakes:

The brakes should respond quickly to a touch of the pedal - you don't want 'soft' brakes.

Check that they stop the vehicle smoothly and in a straight line, without pulling to either side.

Find a quiet stretch of road and try an emergency stop, from about 30 km/h. Put on the brakes firmly, but don't slam them. The car should slow down quickly and in a straight line (if the car starts to veer to one side, this is a good indication there is a fault.

Check the transmission:

You should be able to change gears easily and smoothly. Change down a few times quickly - if you hear crunching noises, the gearbox may need work.

An automatic transmission should change gears smoothly as well. Unexpected gear changes or bumping noises are not good signs. Transmission oil should be a clear red, with no acrid burnt smell.

Lift the hood:

After the test drive, stop the car but leave the engine running and have another look under the hood. This is the best time to look at the motor for smoke, oil or coolant leaks, or problems with the cooling or electrical systems.