How To Take a Test Drive of a Used Car in the UAE

New car dealers and showrooms usually encourage their customers to take a test drive to make the best decision; however, it is usually required more for used cars. For new vehicles, we usually check the comfortability, technology and fuel economy. However,  a test drive of a used car can help you ensure a lot more. It allows buyers to identify any blatant problem they were not made aware of. In this guide, we have listed down how you can take a test drive of a used car in the UAE. However, be a little sceptical if a seller won’t let you take a test drive. 

Also, it is important to note here that, exotic and expensive cars are not usually available for the test drive due to their value. 

Tips for Test Driving a Used Car

Here is how to properly test drive a used car in the UAE to avoid pitfalls and unpleasant surprises.

Check Before You Get Behind the Wheel

Before you take a driving seat and start the engine follow the below-mentioned instructions:

• Check VIN and chassis number of the vehicle from the official website of the Ministry of Interior (MOI), Emirate Vehicle Gate (EVG) and RTA website to check the accidental history of the car. 
• Walk around the vehicle and pay close attention to the door panels. Make sure all the parts are properly lined up; if not, then the vehicle is poorly repaired. However, small dents and dings are common, you can ignore that.
• Check the paint of the vehicles. Pay keen attention to the paint of a body panel. If the colour is different from the rest of the vehicle, then there is a chance that it has been changed previously. 
• Sit down and check beneath the car for oil leaks, rust and other damages.
• Also, check the date of tires since testing centres in the UAE don’t allow the usage of tires for more than three years. Also, look for a spare tire. 
• Once you are done with checking the tires, now open and close the car’s door slowly and observe if they are closing properly or lining up with the frame. If they don’t line up properly that means bad repair or chassis damage. 
• Open up the car’s bonnet and check the oil colour with a dipstick. If the oil colour is dark brown or black, then you might need to get the oil changed. Whereas, if its colour is muddy greyish, the car’s engine either has a blown gasket or a cracked head.
• Check if airbags are working with the help of the Safety Restraint System (SRS) logo or airbag indicator light on the dashboard. 

Check When You Start the Engine

After checking the exterior of the vehicle, it’s time to take a test drive of a used car in the UAE and check the other parts of the vehicle. 

• Moreover, check if the AC of the used car is working properly and doesn’t conk after running for a few minutes.  
• While driving, watch out for any clicking, squealing, hissing, or other abnormal metallic noises as well as suspicious smells of gasoline, burning, oil or exhaust.
• In case you hear a whining sound, there can be an issue with the gearbox, driveshaft, differential and tires.
• Check that the brakes respond correctly to pedal action. Test them by braking hard at 90 km/hour after making sure there is no one behind you and check if the car stays in line. 
• Take a test drive of a used car in the UAE by driving a vehicle in all gears. This goes for both automatic and manual vehicles. 
• If the vehicle is manual, the gears should shift easily, without cracking or jerking, which would indicate wear on the synchronisers.
• Also, check the shock absorber and make sure that the vehicle does not roll too strongly when cornering and that it does not dive excessively during braking.
• To test for proper operation, apply the handbrake when stationary, shift into third gear and slowly disengage until it almost stalls. If the clutch system slips, and if it produces jerks when starting, it probably means that its discs or the flywheel are worn.
• Rev the engine and check what is coming out of the exhaust system. The system is working fine if you see minimal grey or white smoke; whereas, there is something wrong if you see black smoke. 

It is important to note here that you must have your driving license to take a test drive of a used car in the UAE. 

Inspect the Tech

Also, if you are buying a used car in the UAE such as BMW, Mercedes Benz and Toyota, then don’t forget to check the following items:

• Check if a vehicle has navigation and is working properly. 
• Connect the car’s Bluetooth with your phone to check if it is pairing easily. 
• Also, always check the window control is smooth.
• Turn on the infotainment system if the car has one. 
• Check the high-tech safety features of the car.

The vehicle must start easily, in two strokes maximum, without requiring the use of a jump starter. This could alert to a mechanical problem or indicate that the vehicle has remained immobilised for too long. When you start a vehicle, wait a few moments for the engine speed to stabilise, and check its consistency and height when idle. If it makes a squealing or hissing sound, it may indicate faulty belt tension and the risk of the belt breaking. 

Now you know what to look for when test driving a used car in the UAE. Testing a vehicle before you buy it will not only allow you to see if it is right for you but also to check its condition when starting up and on the road. You can follow the checklist before buying a used car to avoid any issues.

Behind the wheel, you will have an opportunity to test everything: the brake, clutch, gearbox, steering, dashboard options and even the comfort of the seats. However, some of the parts in the vehicle can be replaced easily without spending much. If you are looking for auto accessories and parts online in the UAE, then don’t forget to check out dubizzle. From here you can also buy car parts for repairing and replacement purposes.  

Moreover, if you have little mechanical knowledge, ask an expert to accompany you. He can immediately identify anomalies.

Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog to get more updates on the country’s auto market.