Test drive important

Q: I was reading your column and came across an answer you gave about test-driving cars. Any time I’ve gone on a test drive, the dealer basically lets me go up the block and back. These test drives aren’t even long enough to get the car warmed up or figure out where all the switches are. How can I get a car to test drive like you do? — Kathy H., Farmington, Ohio

A: Kathy, if a car dealer or salesman will not allow a test drive that won’t even get the car warmed up, go somewhere else with your business. A test drive, especially with a used car, is a very important step in the purchase procedure. My test drives are handled by the manufacturers and these cars are made available only to the working automotive media.