Engine Performance: The vehicle should be peppy whether cold or warm, with
adequate power and good pickup. It should respond smoothly through the gears.
Brakes: They should provide quick, firm stops with no noise, pulling or
brake fade.
Steering: Sure control with no binding, harshness, or looseness and no shimmy
in the wheel should be expected. Noise or vibration from the steering wheel
when turning the vehicle means trouble.
Clutch (Manual Transaxle): Clutch action should give quick, smooth response
with easy shifting. The clutch pedal should have about 1–1 1⁄2 in.
(26mm), of free–play before it disengages the clutch. Start the engine,
set the parking brake, put the transaxle in first gear and slowly release
the clutch pedal. The engine should begin to stall when the pedal is 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 of
the way up.
Automatic Transaxle: The transaxle should shift rapidly and smoothly, with
no noise, hesitation, or slipping
Differential: No noise or thumps should be present. Differentials have no
normal leaks.
Driveshaft, Universal Joints: Vibration and noise could mean driveshaft
problems. Clicking at low speed or coast conditions means worn U–joints.
Suspension: Try hitting bumps at different speeds. A vehicle that bounces
has weak shock absorbers. Clunks mean worn bushings or ball joints.
Frame: Wet the tires and drive in a straight line. Tracks should show two
straight lines, not four. Four tire tracks indicate a frame bent by collision
damage. If the tires can't be wet for this purpose, have a friend drive along
behind you and see if the vehicle appears to be traveling in a straight line.
