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Buyers Guide on How to Get the Most from Your Volvo Test Drive

So, you've decided that a Volvo is the best car for your needs and preferences. You've done your research and settled on your preferred model. The final step before you go ahead and buy is the test drive - a crucial means of knowing whether the car will live up to your expectations.

Whether you're buying privately or from a dealer, the test drive is very important, so take at least half an hour, even if you feel the seller getting irritated. Hold your ground and remember that you're about to outlay a large sum of money for a car you'll spend a great deal of time driving. In fact, you're advised to test drive two or three cars so you can get a clear feel for what does and doesn't work for you.

Some franchised dealers may even allow you to test drive a new car for an extended period so you can thoroughly get the feel of it - don't be shy to ask. If you've chosen a second-hand car, the test drive is even more vital as it's your main opportunity to ensure everything's as it should be, or what kind of extra repairs will be needed to help with price negotiation.

The following guide will outline the main considerations to keep in mind so that you get the full Monty from your test drive.

Car Insurance

It's important to have insurance that covers a test drive, as you never know what can happen when you're out on the roads. Dealers can arrange for cover specifically for this purpose, but if it's a private sale, chances are you won't be insured if anything goes wrong. Check your current car insurance to see whether your policy covers DOC (Driving Other Cars) – look for wording that says you can 'drive another car with the owner's permission'. Not all insurers include this, so give them a call if you're not sure.

For a small additional premium, some companies will allow you to take out comprehensive cover for a short period of time so that you're protected while test driving potential car buys. Alternatively, the car seller might be able to extend their insurance temporarily to include 'any driver', which will cover them while you test drive their car.

Seating

If a car that has removable seats is important to you, ask if you can take them out to see how easy it is. If it takes two people to do it, you might do better with another car or have scope to negotiate a better price. Also check that you can adjust the seat and/or steering wheel so that you have a comfortable driving position. This is particularly important if you suffer from back pain. Finally, if you use child seats, take them with you to the test drive to make sure they fit correctly, since this is not a given on all cars.

Engine and Suspension

Before you start the ignition, make sure the engine is cold by feeling the bonnet. The reason for this is if the car's warm, the seller could be trying to hide a starter problem. Also check for signs of excessive smoke when you start the car and when you're driving. The engine should be quiet and smooth, plus there should be no unusual rattles or thumps coming from the suspension.

Clutch and Gears

You should be able to shift the car smoothly into all gears without crunching. Also check that the clutch doesn't start biting until the pedal has nearly reached the top – this could indicate the clutch is worn and may need replacing.

Brakes and Steering

While driving the car, you should feel no vibration or 'free play' from the steering – it should be neatly responsive. When you test the brakes, they should bring the car to a quick halt and in a straight line.

Additional Test Drive Checklist

Apart from the main points to watch out for described above, here is a quick additional checklist to follow during your test drive:

• Allow at least half an hour and drive on all kinds of road.
• Ensure you can get in and out of the car with ease.
• Check that all the car instruments can be seen clearly and the controls are easily reachable.
• Make sure there's good all–round vision without blind spots. Also try reversing into a parking space to test whether you have good visibility to the rear.
• Take your children with you to see if they're comfortable in the back of the car.
• Check that you can fold the rear seats easily and that there's enough room for your needs.

Conclusion

If you follow the above advice when taking a test drive, you'll be able to clearly discern whether the Volvo that you're interested in is right for you on a practical level. It is particularly important to do a thorough check if you're buying a second hand model.

About the Author

Jeremy Allston is a car repair business owner and Volvo test drive enthusiast.

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I am looking to cover the gravel on my driveway and I have seen people use I think canvas tarps. or a HUGE mat I am looking to see what it is and where I can get it.

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