A good test drive takes 15–20 minutes and covers the roads you actually drive. Bring your license and use this list.
Before you start the engine
- Walk around in daylight: panel gaps, mismatched paint, tire tread and wear pattern
- Open and close every door, the hood and the trunk or liftgate
- Check the lights, wipers and horn
- Sit in every seat you'll use — especially for car seats and tall passengers
On the road
- Cold start — any rough idle or warning lights that stay on?
- Stop-and-go — smooth shifting, no clunks, brakes that don't pull or pulse
- A hill — listen for the transmission working hard
- Highway speed — steering should be straight with no vibration
- Bumps — clunks or rattles over rough pavement can point to suspension wear
- Parking lot — full-lock turns both ways, listening for clicks
Questions to ask
- Can I see the history report?
- What warranty, if any, comes with it? (The FTC Buyers Guide on the window tells you.)
- What's the out-the-door price?
Request a test drive and we'll have the vehicle ready when you arrive.
Updated October 2026 by the Liberty Approved team. General information, not legal or financial advice.
