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Steps in Test Driving the Used Car You Plan to Buy

By Jolandi Kerstetter

| February 27th 2012 | Views:

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Reputable dealerships in the country sell used cars that have passed rigorous inspection and a host of technical and mechanical tests. To protect you from buying damaged used cars, however, it is best to test drive a vehicle before actually purchasing it. While a used car may look as shiny and spiffy as a brand new vehicle in a dealership's showroom, this does not guarantee that it would function well for long. To ensure that you get a dependable used car, here are some steps you need to take when buying one.

Conduct a Preliminary Inspection

Before getting into the used car's driver's seat, conduct a pre-trip inspection on the vehicle you have chosen. Check the tires for any cracks, splits, and signs of excessive wear. Make sure that mirrors, and switches are functional, and that upholstery and carpets are in acceptable shape and condition. Are all the seats evenly padded, adjustable, and comfortable? Aside from these factors, check all the safety features of the used vehicle. Inspect the headlights, emergency brake, seatbelts, and windshield wipers to ensure that they work properly.

Test Drive Proper

During the test drive, adjust the driver's seat according to your comfort and convenience. Check if the car is easy to start and if the gears shift effortlessly . Ensure that the clutch is easy to engage, and that no unusual noise occurs while changing gears. Check the vehicle's maneuverability, cruise control, and acceleration. Take the car out for at least 30 minutes and drive it in different road conditions. Inspect, too, the air conditioning and heating systems, radio reception, and sound system.

Review Further

After you have driven the car around your town or city, take a few minutes to walk around and open the hood of the car. After 30 minutes of driving, there should not be any dripping fluid or billowing smoke from the exhaust system. Inspect the engine for any dirt and grime buildup to ensure that it is running smoothly. You can ask the experts at Indianapolis used car dealers to assist you in this step.

Get a Vehicle History Report

To verify the used car's good condition, get its vehicle identification number (VIN), which is necessary for a vehicle history report (VHR). The VHR includes details about the car’s past maintenance records, and any accident and repair history. Reputable Indianapolis used car dealerships should help you get this important report.

Have a Mechanic Inspect It

While established used car dealers in Indianapolis provide adequate information regarding their vehicles, it is still recommended to have the used car inspected by an independent mechanic. Spending on a comprehensive vehicle diagnostic report now will save you considerable money in the future.

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