Test Drive Checklist for Used Cars in Plattsmouth, NE

Buy Here, Pay Here!

When you're checking out a used car in Plattsmouth, a thorough test drive checklist is a great way to make sure you get the best car possible. At Copple Cars, we believe every customer deserves confidence when buying a pre-owned vehicle, which is why we suggest having a test drive checklist to guide you through the process. Our buy here, pay here program makes ownership possible for many Plattsmouth residents, but first, let's make sure you're getting a reliable vehicle.

Pre-Drive Inspection Checklist

A used car checklist is a must in Plattsmouth when you're buying a used vehicle. Your test drive should begin before you even start the engine with a careful exterior and interior inspection. Take time to walk around the vehicle checking for uneven panel gaps, paint mismatches, and rust spots, particularly around wheel wells and door edges.

Inside, test all electronic features, including power windows, seats, and climate controls. Check for musty odors that might indicate water damage, and ensure all dashboard warning lights function properly during startup. Don't forget to inspect tire tread depth and keep in mind it should exceed 1/4 inch. And while you're down there, look for even wear patterns that indicate good alignment history.

Essential Items to Test During Your Drive

The actual driving portion of your test should evaluate engine performance, transmission behavior, and overall vehicle handling. Pay attention to how the engine sounds both cold and warmed up, noting any unusual noises like knocking or rattling.

Test the transmission by accelerating from different speeds and checking for smooth shifts. Evaluate steering and suspension by driving over speed bumps and taking corners at moderate speeds. The braking system should stop the vehicle straight without pulling to either side, and the pedal should feel firm, not spongy. Try these tests on different road types around town for a complete assessment.

Post-Drive Verification Steps

After completing your drive, perform a few final checks to confirm the vehicle's condition. One way to do that is by opening the hood and reexamining for any new fluid leaks that might have appeared during the test drive.

Continuing, check that all safety systems functioned properly during your drive, including backup cameras and parking sensors if the car is equipped with them. Look in the front windshield to get the vehicle identification number and research its history report to verify mileage consistency and accident history. Or ask us for the VIN, and our team at Copple Cars will help with this step.

Copple Cars Buy Here, Pay Here: Making Your Purchase Simple

Our buy here, pay here program in Plattsmouth makes vehicle ownership accessible to all residents regardless of credit history. We handle financing in-house, which means you can complete your entire car-buying process-from test drive to financing approval-all in one convenient location.

Ready to put this test drive checklist to use? Visit Copple Cars in Plattsmouth today, where our friendly team will help you find a quality used vehicle that meets your needs and budget. We'll guide you through each step of the test drive process and explain our flexible buy here, pay here options that can get you behind the wheel faster than you might think!

Sell Your Vehicle to Copple Cars
Plattsmouth in Plattsmouth, NE