TEST DRIVE

Dylan69

I'm currently heading down to a garage tnite where i'm in interested in a ford focus.
Is there anything i should keep an eye out when doing the test ,apart from the obviouse..steering,smooth transaction, gears etc ??

EPM

What year?

From my 04 Mk1 experience - make sure it's getting into reverse cleanly, locking works on all doors, no whine from the steering on full lock. Also make sure that the sunroof works as it should if fitted.

Sold mine in the end because of the locking and a dodgy sunroof. My friend has had problems getting reverse on his and noise from the steering pump, but generally these cars are tough

Dylan69

05 Ford Focus LX

I had actually told the garage that i would like to see a price reduction if anything fails to my satisfaction or even walk away.

Stevie Dakota

If you are not mechanically minded best get someone who is to go with you. You can do the bodywork yourself, check paint is even, no colour variations, stand well back an look at it. Check for even panel gaps, smooth flanks (get down low and look down the side of the car for imperfections). Look in boot under mat for evidence of crash damage, same at the front. Check all the buttons and switches work, leaks, wet spots in the engine bay. I am sure there is lots more.

Good luck.

mumblin deaf ro

Check that the brake warning light comes on (the ! sign) when you lift the handbrake, as this can be a flaw, although not serious enough to affect a sale. Also make sure the car doesn't roll on a hill and that the handbrake fully engages, as this was a problem on mine, albeit my experience has otherwise been hassle-free.

-Chris-

Google "How to buy a used car" and you'll find a load of guides.

Have a look at a few, they all pretty much say the same thing though.

Drive it and see if you like it. If you're getting close to buying it, get someone who knows what they're doing to look it over for you.

vincenzolorenzo

I'd check that the central locking is working to begin with. This can be a bit temperamental on focuses. Listen out for any wheel bearing noise, I've had to replace 2 on mine. Not the biggest job in the world, but still. Had to change the clutch on mine at 90k miles, so check out clutch wear as well. Thats about all I can think of apart from the usual checks for damage, etc

BlackWizard

You can check all the small functional bits youreself. Heating, aircon, seats all adjust, seat belts all work, windows all work, lights all work and adjust, wipers work and spit out water, radio/speakers work, boot opens/closes normally same with fuel cap, the boot is in decent condition with no puddles of water and other stuff that I can't think of.

The look of the car is a good one too. Someone already mentioned that. Paint and colour along with dents or patchy paint work. See if any of the bumpers are loose. If they are it can be normal but it might let you see behind the bumper to any damage.

Then bring someone who knows their stuff about cars. Even then it can be pot luck sometimes

Kartale

Dylan69 wrote: »

05 Ford Focus LX

I had actually told the garage that i would like to see a price reduction if anything fails to my satisfaction or even walk away.

You are being very negative here IMO. This should be a positive experience, you are going to spend quite a sum of your own money , but you are indicating that you expect to be something wrong before you even see the car. If you have this feeling look at another.
i am sure that if you have any queries or reservations about the car after test drive & inspection , the garage would only be too happy to rectify them if they want to sell.
dont go with "im being ripped off attitude". you may find it a pleasant experience and you may even be looked after

Stevie Dakota

Kartale wrote: »

You are being very negative here IMO. This should be a positive experience, you are going to spend quite a sum of your own money , but you are indicating that you expect to be something wrong before you even see the car. If you have this feeling look at another.
i am sure that if you have any queries or reservations about the car after test drive & inspection , the garage would only be too happy to rectify them if they want to sell.
dont go with "im being ripped off attitude". you may find it a pleasant experience and you may even be looked after

This a good point, despite what you hear around here this does not have to be a battle between you and the dealer, be clear and assertive with them but not confrontational, know your bottom line and do you price research. With a good rapport you are far more likely to get a good deal and good follow up.

Dylan69

Kartale wrote: »

You are being very negative here IMO. This should be a positive experience, you are going to spend quite a sum of your own money , but you are indicating that you expect to be something wrong before you even see the car. If you have this feeling look at another.
i am sure that if you have any queries or reservations about the car after test drive & inspection , the garage would only be too happy to rectify them if they want to sell.
dont go with "im being ripped off attitude". you may find it a pleasant experience and you may even be looked after

I hope so, i had done my research, many late nights and discussion with the wife!!! I'm just not "mechanical minded" confident wholly that the car is 100% perfect...that all...most car aint but its about getting the right feel!!!

Thanks apprecaite. Do you think the dealer would be offended if i brought the list i printed off the "How to buy a used car" checklist during the test drive???:)

-Chris-

I know I wouldn't, I'd actually appreciate it.

a) it gives me the chance to allay any fears you have about the car
b) the fact that you've done your homework shows me you're serious about buying the car rather than just "thinking about it"

EPM

Dylan69 wrote: »

Do you think the dealer would be offended if i brought the list i printed off the "How to buy a used car" checklist during the test drive???:)

Just familiarise yourself with the basics. Is it a main dealer? I really wouldn't worry too much. Check the service history and verify it if you feel the need to clarify anything