THE LAURIE DEALER TEST DRIVE
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Insist on it, as it might save you a packet. Here is what you need to do on a proper test drive:
● Make sure you’re insured or have trade plates. The dealer might have some plates, but the dealer will need to come with you.
● If it’s a tractor, ask to use the dealer’s test trailer or, if your yard is close enough, pick up one of your own trailers with some weight in it. This will be the acid test.
● Try a mix of roads and speeds. Work your way up and down the box, always putting the clutch to the floor when changing gear; if it struggles there, then it’s on its way out. Check that the steering doesn’t pull.
● A smoking exhaust is a sign it’s burning oil. At standstill, it’s not so much of a problem, but accelerate hard through the gears: if it smokes, then the engine is probably on its way out.
● Make sure the cruise control and any electrical equipment such as mirrors, windows and air conditioning works.