What To Look for When Test Driving a Used Car

Buying a used vehicle is one of the smartest financial moves you can make—especially when you’re shopping from a trusted dealership like Brown Daub Chevrolet in Nazareth, PA. But even when a pre-owned Chevy looks perfect on paper, the test drive is your best opportunity to confirm that it truly feels right for you.

A test drive reveals how the vehicle performs in real-world conditions, how comfortable you feel behind the wheel, and whether it’s been properly maintained. To help you make the most of your time at the dealership, here’s a complete guide to what to look for when test driving a used car or truck.

Come Prepared

Before you turn the key, take a few minutes to gather some background information about the vehicle you’re test driving.

Ask the dealership for:

• A Carfax® Vehicle History Report or similar documentation

• A summary of recent service records or inspections

• Details about warranties, especially if it’s a Certified Pre-Owned Chevy

• Information on the trim level and features

At Brown Daub Chevrolet, every used and Certified Pre-Owned vehicle comes with complete transparency—so you can start your test drive knowing the vehicle’s history and what’s covered under warranty.

Inspect the Vehicle Before You Drive

The test drive actually begins before you start the engine. A quick walk-around helps you spot details that might not appear in photos or listings.

Exterior checks:

• Look for scratches, dents, or mismatched paint.

• Examine the tires—are they evenly worn? Uneven wear could indicate an alignment issue.

• Check the headlights, taillights, and turn signals.

• Make sure the doors, trunk, and hood open and close smoothly.

Interior checks:

• Test all seat adjustments and make sure they feel comfortable.

• Look for signs of excessive wear, stains, or odors.

• Verify that the infotainment system, air conditioning, and power accessories work properly.

Even though every used Chevy at Brown Daub Chevrolet is fully inspected, it’s always wise to take your own look—it helps you feel confident in your purchase.

Check for Comfort and Visibility

Once you’re in the driver’s seat, take a few minutes to get comfortable. Adjust your mirrors, seat height, and steering wheel position.

Ask yourself:

• Can I see clearly out of all windows and mirrors?

• Is the driver’s seat supportive and comfortable?

• Are the controls easy to reach and intuitive to use?

• Can I easily connect my phone or navigate the infotainment system?

Remember, comfort and visibility are key to long-term satisfaction—especially if you’ll be using your vehicle for daily commutes or family trips.

Pay Attention to How It Starts

When you turn the key (or push the start button), pay attention to how the vehicle starts and idles.

You should notice:

• A smooth start with no clicking or hesitation

• No dashboard warning lights

• A quiet, steady idle without shaking or unusual noises

Modern Chevrolets like the Equinox, Malibu, and Silverado have engines that start cleanly and idle quietly—any rattling or roughness could indicate the need for additional service or tuning.

Evaluate Acceleration and Braking

During the drive, find a safe stretch of road to test acceleration. The vehicle should respond smoothly when you press the gas pedal, without jerking or hesitation.

Acceleration checklist:

• Does the vehicle shift smoothly between gears?

• Does it accelerate evenly without hesitation or vibration?

• Does the transmission feel responsive when merging or passing?

Braking checklist:

• The brakes should feel firm and responsive, not spongy.

• The vehicle should stop in a straight line without pulling to one side.

• Listen for squeaking or grinding sounds.

If you’re testing a Chevy SUV or truck, like a Traverse or Silverado, be sure to note how the braking feels under heavier weight—smooth, predictable braking is a sign of proper maintenance.

Test the Steering and Suspension

Take the vehicle on a variety of roads—smooth, uneven, and curved—to evaluate how it handles.

You should notice:

• Responsive steering with no excessive play or stiffness.

• A stable ride that absorbs bumps and imperfections comfortably.

• No rattling or clunking noises from the suspension.

If you’re test driving an Equinox, Trailblazer, or Tahoe, you should feel confident and balanced through corners—Chevy’s suspension systems are known for delivering both comfort and control.

Listen Closely

Turn off the radio for part of your test drive. Listen carefully for sounds that might indicate mechanical issues:

• Humming or whining from the transmission

• Knocking from the engine

• Rattling or squeaking from the cabin or suspension

It’s perfectly normal for used vehicles to have a bit more road noise than brand-new ones, but consistent or sharp sounds could mean the vehicle needs service. Fortunately, at Brown Daub Chevrolet, every used vehicle is inspected and reconditioned by factory-trained technicians, so most test drives are pleasantly quiet.

Test All the Technology

Modern Chevrolets are loaded with technology—even in used models from the last few years. During your test drive, try out:

• Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™

• Navigation system and touchscreen responsiveness

• Backup camera and parking sensors

• Driver-assist features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring

Don’t rush through this step. These features make daily driving safer and more enjoyable, and you’ll want to ensure they work seamlessly for your needs.

Take Your Time

A good test drive shouldn’t feel rushed. Plan for at least 15–20 minutes behind the wheel, giving yourself time to experience:

• City driving with stop-and-go traffic

• Open highway speeds

• Tight turns, parking maneuvers, and braking situations

At Brown Daub Chevrolet, our team encourages customers to take their time—we want you to feel completely comfortable before making a decision.

10. Ask Questions and Review the Details

After the drive, sit down with your sales consultant to review your impressions. Ask questions such as:

• Has this vehicle had any major repairs?

• What kind of warranty or service plan is available?

• What’s the vehicle’s maintenance history?

• Can I see a full inspection checklist?

For Certified Pre-Owned Chevrolets, your consultant will show you the 172-point inspection report, warranty coverage, and available service plans like Chevrolet Prepaid Maintenance or GM Protection Plans.

Make Your Decision Confidently

A thorough test drive should leave you with a clear answer—does this vehicle feel right? Does it suit your driving habits, comfort needs, and expectations?

If everything checks out, you can move forward confidently knowing you’ve made an informed decision backed by a trusted dealership.

At Brown Daub Chevrolet, our goal is never to rush a sale—it’s to make sure every driver drives home with the perfect used Chevy for their lifestyle, whether it’s a family-ready Traverse, a dependable Malibu, or a capable Silverado 1500.

The Bottom Line

A test drive is the most important part of buying a used car—it’s your opportunity to experience the vehicle firsthand and ensure it meets your expectations for comfort, performance, and reliability.

By taking your time and knowing what to look for, you’ll drive away with confidence, knowing your used Chevy has been inspected, serviced, and backed by professionals who care.

Visit Brown Daub Chevrolet in Nazareth, PA, today to schedule your test drive. Whether you’re shopping for a sedan, SUV, or truck, we’ll help you find a used Chevrolet that feels just right the moment you get behind the wheel.