Test-driving a used vehicle

October 11, 9:05 PMAutomotive ExaminerKyle Busch

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A used Honda Civic - not a bad way to go!

Why consider
buying used
and saving
money on
a vehicle?
You simply
drive right
past the
credit freeze
and gain
some peace of mind in the process.

After you have completed the exterior inspection of a used vehicle
and it receives passing grades, what about the test-drive?

The following are some things to consider during your test-drive:

· Locate a flat vacant parking lot. In the parking lot,
  drive slowly and move the steering wheel slightly
  to the left and right to determine any sloppiness in
  the steering. Drive the vehicle in a straight line and
  apply the brakes. The vehicle should not drift or pull
  to the left or the right. Come to a stop and push the
  brake pedal hard for 15 seconds. The pedal should
  feel solid without any sponginess. Next, if the
  transmission is an automatic, keep your foot on the
  brake so that the car does not move. With the engine
  running, shift the transmission slowly from drive to
  reverse and then back to drive. Do this drive to reverse
  and back to drive several times. Be perceptive to any
  sloppiness or jerking. This test is good because it targets
  any worn parts from the engine through the drivetrain to
  the wheels. Too many expensive parts would need to be
  replaced to correct the sloppiness of a vehicle that has
  been driven hard. Also, check any accessories (stereo,
  power windows, windshield wipers, heater, air conditioner,
  etc., etc.) in the parking lot rather than when you drive the
  vehicle on the road.

· Drive the vehicle on roads a minimum of 20 minutes (tell
  the owner that you would like to drive the vehicle on a
  variety of roads). Try to drive the vehicle up a steep hill
  from a standing start. The transmission should shift
  smoothly and the engine should have good power.
  Listen for any annoying squeaks or rattles during the
  test-drive. Consider if the suspension offers a smooth
  ride over some rough pavement. Also, consider if the
  vehicle’s ergonomics (placement of the steering wheel, 
  position of the seat, placement of the pedals and the
  various controls) fit you. Last, but not least, at the end
  of the test-drive, look at the temperature gauge to determine
  over heating. The needle should read above ¼ to ½ on the
  gauge. Also, no engine or warning lights should come on
  at any time during your test-drive.

· When you return the vehicle to the owner, ask him or her
  if the timing belt has been replaced. If so, inquire at what
  mileage it was replaced and at what garage. Since this is
  an important maintenance item, the owner should be able
  to show you a receipt that the work was done.

Before buying any used vehicle, be certain to take it to a mechanic
who should put it on a lift, inspect the major components, and give
it another test-drive.

Do not let the credit freeze stop you from enjoying your driving.
A used vehicle is one way of doing it!

Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price…” He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.DriveTheBestBook.com.