What should I look for during a test drive? Make sure the engine has not been warmed up before you start. If it has, be suspicious about cold-start and cold-running problems.
		Assuming the engine is cold, make sure your test drive is long enough for the engine to warm up properly ­ at least 15 minutes. You need to drive it when the engine is both cold and warm. And try to mix urban and dual carriageway motoring.
	During the drive, check the steering for quickness of response and consistency of feel. Do a three-point turn to gauge the steering on full lock. This will also give you a chance to check reverse gear - does it engage noisily and does it jump out of gear? Do the same with all other gears. And while you're at it, select top gear at about 25mph and accelerate gently to see how smoothly the engine pulls. See whether the car has a tendency to pull to one side in normal driving. Then see if this tendency increases when you brake. Conduct two emergency-style brake tests in quick succession, but make sure you do it in safe conditions, with the owner's consent and after giving sufficient warning. (The trick is to probe for faults without putting the car through undue strain.) Also apply the handbrake when stationary on a hill and see what happens ­ but be ready with the footbrake just in case!
	Check for snatches or jerks from the throttle, brakes and clutch. Also ensure that the clutch engages cleanly and is not on its last legs. Feel how the car handles and how well it absorbs bumps ­ is it better or worse than you have experienced with other examples of the model? Listen for strange noises, keep an eye on all gauges and warning lights, see if there's a puff of exhaust smoke when you change gear or accelerate hard and smell for signs of overheating, electrical trouble and petrol leaks.