You’ve spotted your next dream Veedub, raided the piggy bank to pay for it, and now you need to get round there pronto and seal the deal. But you need to drive it first to make sure it’s kosher – and all too often this is a wasted opportunity to spot crucial clues that all’s not quite as it seems mechanically. Without getting carried away with the whole occasion, here’s five golden rules to remember on your next VW testdrive…

Suck it and see
When new to a car, it’s virtually impossible to know exactly what it should feel like, so try a few examples of the same model and compare notes. Is this particular one down on power, does the steering feel more vague, does it rattle more or are the brakes not quite as good as the one you drove the other day? Create a benchmark to enable you to tell a good ‘un from a car that’s missed crucial servicing or needs an engine rebuild.

Don’t jump in
Get the seller to start the car up while you are outside so you can listen for any untoward noises from the engine or clouds of smoke from the exhaust – either of which could spell trouble. Get them to blip the throttle a few times, and if the smoke doesn’t disappear or is distinctly blue in colour, then you are viewing a dud. When sitting inside try all the controls – does everything work as it should? Also, listen to the tickover. Is it as regular as a Swiss watch, or does it sound like it’s hunting or about to stall? It’ll take some sorting if it’s the latter.

Sit it out
Chances are the seller will insist on driving the car first. Now this isn’t a bad thing because it gives you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the car and begin the test drive process without any distractions. Listen for any unusual noises like knocks from the suspension over bumps or transmission clunks. Watch the driver’s technique too. If they jump in a put their foot down before the engine’s fully warm, make your own judgment as to how well the car’s been cared for.

Take to the wheel
Inevitably it is now that the question over insurance will arise, and it is up to you to make sure you are covered. Private sellers may have a clause enabling other drivers to be insured Third Party only, but never assume this is the case. If the worst happens – you, the driver – will be responsible.

So with the red tape taken care of, here’s your chance to see if the car’s really for you. Start by checking the driving dynamics – can you get into a comfortable driving position by adjusting the seat and/or steering wheel? Are the pedals too far away, too close together or at a strange angle? Be honest with yourself. Is it really the dream VW you imagined or is it just too vintage for the daily commute you’d envisaged doing? As you move off, check the throttle response, make sure there’s no flat spots or misfires and check you can go through all the gears without any synchro problems. Also, make sure the steering feels as it should – not vague or notchy. The take up on the clutch shouldn’t be too near the top, if so it could soon need replacing. A test drive should ideally last for at least ten miles and include all manner of driving situations from stop-start to faster A-road driving, so don’t feel pressured or rushed.

Straight as an arrow?
When you eventually find a quiet piece of road without any other traffic, there are a couple of final checks you can do before heading for home. Does the car steer and brake in a straight line? If there’s a judder as you brake, the brake discs may be warped or the ABS (if fitted) could be cutting in prematurely.

Finally, cast your eyes at the dashboard and make sure there are no flashing lights warning you of impending doom. Did you spot a worrying glow from the red engine warning light or was that a glimmer from the green alternator light? On water cooled Dubs make sure the water temperature gauge needle is where it should be.

And that’s about it. Remember, things picked up on during a drive can be used to bargain down the price when you get back to base – so keep your wits about you and be sure to use the time available to your best advantage.

Ian

The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of VW Heritage