Second Hand Van Sales & Used Car Sales in Chichester | West Sussex Van Centre

Purchasing a used vehicle can be an exciting yet daunting experience; this is especially true if you forgo visiting a reputable van dealer, like West Sussex Van Centre in Worthing, just a short trip from nearby Chichester. After all, it’s not uncommon to hear of used van sales and second hand car sales going wrong, and usually for the buyer. Whether you’re interested in used light commercial vehicles – perhaps used transit vans – or are more interested in used car sales, it pays to play it safe.

But we’re no means under any illusions: sometimes, Chichester residents will take a chance on a second hand van sales being made elsewhere, by individuals or perhaps less long-standing and well-reviewed competitors. So, how do you make sure that used van sales and second hand car sales go in your favour? One crucial step in the buying process is the test drive. Taking the vehicle for a spin allows you to assess its performance, comfort and overall condition. To ensure you make an informed decision, here are some essential aspects to consider when test driving a used car, van or used light commercial vehicles.

Test Drive Considerations With Used Cars & Used Van Sales

Exterior Inspection – Before hitting the road, inspect the vehicle's exterior for any signs of damage or poor maintenance. Look for dents, scratches and rust spots, as they can indicate neglect or potential future problems which should make you wary of completing used van sales or second hand car sales; this is doubly true if a Chichester seller or van dealer hasn’t been totally up front with you. Check the tires for wear and tear, ensuring they have sufficient tread depth. Additionally, examine the lights, mirrors and wipers to ensure they are in proper working order.

Interior Comfort and Functionality – Once inside the vehicle, pay attention to its comfort and ergonomics. Test the seating positions, including the driver's seat, to ensure they offer adequate support; getting a bargain on used car sales or even used light commercial vehicles, such as used transit vans, isn’t worth it if you’ll be in pain driving it! Adjust the steering wheel, mirrors and seat belts to ensure they are easily adjustable and functional. We also urge Chichester residents to use all buttons, switches and controls to ensure they work as intended, including the air conditioning, infotainment system, and power windows.

Performance & Handling – If possible to arrange, take the vehicle for a test drive on various road conditions around Chichester, including urban streets and highways, to assess its performance and handling. Pay attention to acceleration, braking and steering response. The vehicle should feel stable, without any unusual vibrations or strange sounds. Listen for any abnormal engine sounds, which could be indicative of mechanical issues, making second hand car sales and used van sales much less economical than they might seem at the time. Ensure the gears shift smoothly in manual transmission vehicles or that automatic transmissions shift seamlessly.

Braking System – As the Chichester area’s favoured used van dealer and top spot for used car sales, we can’t stress this enough: evaluate the vehicle's braking system during the test drive. The brakes should respond promptly and smoothly, without any excessive noise, pulsation or pulling to one side. Test the emergency brake as well, ensuring it engages and disengages without any issues. They’re your first line of defence on the road, and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Comprehensive Test Drive – Ideally, you’re going to want to spend at least 30 minutes test driving the vehicle to get a better understanding of its performance and any potential issues – and that goes for used light commercial vehicles like used transit vans, as well as second hand car sales and second hand van sales. Try various manoeuvres such as parking, turning and reversing to evaluate the vehicle's manoeuvrability.