Test Driving

Test driving

A test drive is carried out to check that the car is in perfect condition when it leaves the workshop

Test driving must be carried out at every service

Attention must always be paid to the traffic conditions and safety during all test driving

Make the following checks while test driving and correct if necessary:

Check before starting the engine that:
- the ignition and steering wheel lock and the remote control function.
- the indicator lamps and instruments function, including the indicator lamp and SRS and ABS warning lamps.

Automatic gearbox:
- the starter motor only operates in positions P and N and the reversing lamp only in position R.

Check when starting the engine that:
- the starter motor functions normally without abnormal noise.
- the engine starts normally.

Check when starting driving that:
- the clutch does not snatch or slip.
- the acceleration is normal and that no "pinking" or other abnormalities occur.
Accelerate from 2,500 rpm at full throttle to 4,500 rpm.
- the gearbox functions normally with no abnormal noise.
- there is no play or abnormal stiffness in the steering.
- the steering wheel position is correct and that it centers correctly after turning.
- there is no imbalance in the wheels.
- there is no vibration or abnormal noise from the gearbox.

Continue driving and check that:
- the car does not pull to one side and that it does not feel unstable.
- the engine reaches normal operating temperature within the correct time.
- there is no imbalance in the wheels at normal road speeds.
- no abnormal noise is heard from the bodywork, the front suspension or the rear suspension.
- no abnormal wind noise occurs.
- the climate control and controls function normally.

Check while braking that:
- the pedal force is normal and that there is no vibration.
Cars with ABS pulse if the wheel start to lock.
- parking brake function is optimum.
Additionally for automatic gearbox:
- the shift-lock in position P functions and that the lever remains in position.
- no slippage occurs at stalling speed
in positions D or R.
- the gearbox changes down and the car engine brakes when the lever is moved from a higher to a lower gear position.

Check after the test drive that:
- the engine does not run-on when it has been switched off.
- there is no leakage in the engine compartment.
- "the service components"are installed and that nothing abnormal can be seen.
- wipe off any spilled oil and fingerprints.
- no obvious faults can be seen in the bodywork or interior trim.
Wipe the steering wheel and gear selector lever. Check that the vehicle does not show any traces of the visit to the workshop.

Going through the service sheet

Go through the service sheet with the customer
Inform the customer of what has been carried out in the servicing and any observations from the test drive.
Book an appointment with the customer if further repair work is recommended to ensure trouble-free motoring.
Treat the customer in a manner that gives faith in the workshops care of his car.

Welcome the customer back for his next service!