One of the most important parts of the process is the test drive. It can be the difference between purchasing your dream car or a jalopy.

Don’t worry though. Here are a few tactics, before and during a test drive, that’ll help you avoid buying a clunker.

1. Safety first

It might be tempting to just grab the keys and go for a cruise in your potential dream car, but there are a few checks you should make before you get behind the wheel.

Firstly, if you’re buying from a private seller, make sure the vehicle is registered. You can either ask to see the registration papers or check on the EzyReg website.

It’s also a good idea to bring a friend or family member along for the test drive, so you’re not alone with the seller. If that’s not an option, consider the risks of getting in a vehicle with someone you don’t know, especially if they insist on driving.

If you build some trust with the seller, you could ask to test drive the car by yourself, leaving your driver’s licence or your own car keys with the owner as proof you’ll be returning.

2. Before you jump in the driver’s seat

Next, do a quick walk-around of the vehicle. Check the tyres are roadworthy and there aren’t any significant dents.

Inside the car, check the condition of the indicators, electric windows, seat belts, and other interior features.

3. Start the vehicle

When you turn the key in the ignition, the engine should start easily. Make sure the battery isn’t sluggish and taking a while to turn over. Once the engine has roared to life, look in the rear-vision mirror to see if there’s any smoke coming from the exhaust.

It’s best to let the car idle for a few minutes before heading out on the road. Pop the bonnet and listen for any unusual noises and make sure the car idles smoothly. A knocking sound might indicate a serious issue; while, banging, popping or spluttering could mean there’s a problem with the fuel or ignition management system.

It’s also a good idea to check the air conditioner is blowing cold air, and make sure other accessories like demister controls and the radio are working correctly.

4. Listen for noises

Noises can tell you a lot about a car. If you’ve ever driven a lemon, you might’ve noticed the way it groans and croaks as you putter along the road.

When you’re on a test drive, listen for whirring or howling sounds that might indicate an issue with the transmission. The engine should run smoothly and not jerk or surge when you’re in motion or idling.

Don’t forget the brakes either – if they squeal or grind when pressed, there could be some underlying problems.

The suspension creaks could indicate issues so make sure you listen out when you’re driving over any bumps. If your suspension is clunking as you go over bumps, it could indicate control-arm issues, worn ball joints or worn-out struts.

5. Drive in various conditions

If possible, try driving the car at varying speeds on several road types. A car will handle differently on a city street compared to a fast-moving highway.

When you’re driving at high speeds, there are a range of problems to look out for. Firstly, the car should drive straight when the steering wheel is straight. If it isn’t, the vehicle may need a wheel alignment.

If the steering wheel is vibrating, it could indicate a whole range of issues, including a wheel imbalance or an issue with your brakes. These problems need to be fixed promptly otherwise they could damage the car and ultimately put you at risk on the road.

Brakes are vital for the car to operate safely, so make sure you check they’re working well. Press down hard on the brakes a few times, ensuring there isn’t any vibration.

6. Look for any warning signs

Your focus should be on the road when test driving a car, but it’s best to glance down at the dash from time-to-time.

Look for any illuminated warning lights and make sure the fuel and temperature gauges are working correctly (and not reading erratically, or too hot or cold). If you notice the engine light flickering on or the temperature gauge going into the red, then it could be a sign the car you’re test driving is a lemon.

7. Completing your test drive

The test drive doesn’t end when you pull into the seller’s driveway or return to the car yard.

When you park the car, leave the engine running and carry out another walk-around.

Inspect under the front of the car and look for any fluid leaks and listen to the engine for any alarming noises. If there are any unusual smells coming from under the bonnet, open the hood and investigate further.

Walk to the back of the car and look for any blue or black smoke. The car should’ve warmed up, so anything coming from the exhaust should be clear.

Still not sure about your dream ride?

If you’ve taken a car for a test drive, and you’re still unsure if you want to make the purchase, RAA offers pre-purchase vehicle inspections.

Before you make your final decision, an expert will inspect everything from your engine and cooling system to transmission and tyres.