Picking up brand new car at the weekend, what to check before handing over cheque?

Hi Mike, if it's a main dealer then i wouldn't be worried about the test drive, maybe leave enough time once you've picked the car up to drive around the area for a bit just so you're happy before you head off home. Dependent on the dealer there may be a checklist if not create one for yourself covering all the points that are important, full documents, service book, reciepts, warrenty information etc. Don't let them rush you if you're not familiar with the model ask them to take you through all the controls and make sure you know how to open the petrol cap and bonnet!! You can't beat the smell of a brand new car....Happy motoring

Whenever I make an appointment to collect a new car I always turn up early. If the salesman is busy then so much the better as I ask him for the keys so that I can check and put the seats and mirrors in the right position and familiarise myself with the controls. Then I check the car for damage. I normally take my brother as it's better to have 2 pairs of critical eyes.

If there is a local car hire company to you be cheeky and ask them for one of their vehicle check forms,take that with you,then note all defects(scratches etc) write down the mileage,then get the dealer to sign it,that way it lessens the chance of arguments,

A good dealer will if you ask take you out for a test/familirisation drive so you can get used to all the controls