What to Check on a Used Car Test Drive in 2025

Taking a car for a test drive isn’t just exciting—it’s essential. It's your opportunity to work out whether this car is "the one." A shiny exterior and promising advert can only take you so far. You’re about to invest a fair amount of money, so you want to make sure the car feels as good as it looks, handles well, and works for your lifestyle.

To help, we’ve put together a straightforward guide on what to check during a used car test drive. It’s not just about seeing how it drives; it’s also your chance to uncover any potential issues before saying yes. If you need help on what to look for when buying a used car, Cazoo has you covered.

Before You Start the Test Drive

Bring the Essentials

The first thing you’ll need is your driving licence. Dealerships will typically ask to see this before letting you take a test drive. If you’re test-driving a car from a private seller, check your current insurance policy to confirm you’re covered to drive another vehicle. Look for "Driving Other Cars" (DOC) cover or arrange temporary insurance if needed.

Inspect the Car Thoroughly

Before you even sit behind the wheel, take a few minutes to examine the car’s condition.

1. Tyres: Are they all the same brand and size? Look for at least 1.6mm of tread depth and no visible damage. Tyre condition guide
2. Brake Discs: Peek through the wheels to check the discs. Deep grooves or uneven wear could signal excessive use.
3. Bodywork: Run your eyes (and hands) over the panels. Ripples or inconsistent paint could indicate past repairs.
4. Fluid Leaks: Check beneath the car for any signs of leaking oil, brake fluid or coolant.
5. Doors and Boot: Open and close each one, ensuring everything operates smoothly. Try locking and unlocking with both the key and key fob.

Learn more about what to look for in our vehicle checks guide.

Inside the Car

Take a Seat Behind the Wheel

Once you’re in the driver’s seat, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the car.

• Controls and Features: Switch on the ignition and test every control—from the headlights and indicators to the air conditioning and infotainment system. Are all functions working as expected?
• Smell Test: Open the doors and air out any overpowering fragrances, like air freshener, which could be masking unwelcome odours.

Find Your Comfort Zone

• Adjust the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors to ensure you’re comfortable. If you struggle to get everything into the right position, this could be a warning that the car doesn’t suit your needs.

During the Test Drive

A good test drive shouldn’t rush you. Aim to cover a range of driving conditions—and don’t shy away from putting the car through its paces.

1. Low-Speed Handling

Start in a quiet area to test the car’s manoeuvrability and handling.

• Steering and Suspension: Does the steering feel precise, or is there unwanted vibration or a pull to one side? Drive over a bump to assess how the suspension reacts—do you feel cushioned, or is it overly jarring?

2. Braking Performance

Find a safe place to brake firmly (preferably at a low speed).

• Note how the brakes feel underfoot—spongy or unresponsive brakes are a red flag. And does the car stop in a straight line, or does it veer?

3. Acceleration and Gear Changes

Check how the car responds under acceleration.

• Gears: Are the transitions smooth and effortless, or do they stick, grind, or feel hesitant? This applies to both manual and automatic transmissions.
• Power: For petrol or diesel engines, pay attention to any hesitation or unusual noises when you push the accelerator.

4. Highway and High-Speed Driving

If possible, incorporate some faster driving on dual carriageways or motorways.

• Stability: Does the car feel stable and solid at speed?
• Noise Level: Listen for excessive wind or road noise—which might hint at issues like tyre wear or poor cabin insulation.

5. Parking and Low-Speed Manoeuvres

Test any reversing aids or sensors, and park the car. This will give you an idea of real-world usability, including visibility over your shoulders and the ease of controlling the car during tight turns or parallel parking.

Questions to Ask

After the test drive, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself a few key questions to confirm if this is the right car for you.

• Did I feel comfortable while driving?
• Was the car responsive in different conditions?
• Were there any unusual sounds, vibrations, or smells?
• Do the car’s features and controls meet my expectations?
• Is there anything I need to investigate further, like service records or a potential repair?

Remember, there’s no rush. You’re in control of this decision—and your test drive is one of the most critical parts of the process.

By using this checklist and exploring more tips with Cazoo, you’ll feel more confident about whether the car you’re considering is good value and a perfect fit for your needs.