Take a final test drive. You may have already test driven the car, but this time be on the lookout for any malfunctions. The dealership still owns the vehicle, so expect the salesperson to accompany you. But ask him or her to can the chatter; you'll need to concentrate - and listen - as you put the truck through its paces. Be sure to take it on the highway, not just around the block.a. Listen carefully to engine idle. Does it sound okay?b. Look at the tailpipe. Any abnormal smoke or color? Moisture?c. Brakes: Do you like the feel of the brake pedal (even and smooth)? How does the parking brake work? Does your foot have to be on the brake to shift out of park?d. When you put the vehicle into gear, does it sound okay? Do the shift indicators line up with the proper gear that you are in (i.e. the indicator reads R when in reverse)?e. Noise Check. Turn the radio off and use your senses. Drive over various road conditions and speeds that you know you will be frequenting. Listen for the Buzz Squeaks and Rattles (BSR) -- no tweet, tweet, tweet from the tailgate allowed. Also note NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) -- no loud thuds, or strange shaking between 50-55 MPH allowed.f. Watch the gauges. Do they move and register properly? (Gauges include the odometer, speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, and coolant temperature.)g. Run the air conditioning and heating. Do they appear to work properly?h. Check the vehicles acceleration and braking for proper operation.i. Accelerate to highway speeds and note any squeaks and rattles, and if the brakes or steering pull to one side.j. Check the cruise control for proper operation.k. Check the vehicle's handling: Can it turn a tight U-turn? Does it make any strange noises? Make right and left turns. Does the steering respond properly?
