If you're about to buy a used car whose condition you're not absolutely sure about ( like your parents' ), you'll most definitely want to take it for a test drive before making your final decision.

These are a few points to consider regarding this:

- Plan ahead what your route is going to be. Design it so that it includes as many different situations as possible: a highway, a few streets in different conditions, etc. Check every gear goes in and out smoothly under different conditions ( this is very important ). Ask the seller for the test drive to take at least 20-30 minutes.

- Bring with you a recorder or simply a pen and a piece of paper to take notes of any doubts that may arise. Ask any questions necessary to the seller.

- You might want to take a mechanic with you ( or just let him do the driving ). Try to negotiate this with the seller.

- Do not, on the other hand, bring anyone else that might distract you from your driving ( like family, friends, etc ). You'll need to focus on what you're doing.

- Ask the seller all questions you might find pertinent regarding the car's maintainence, the basic tools and equipment that should be in the car, etc.

- Don't make any hasty decisions. If you're still not sure after your test drive, just inform the seller and ask an expert for advice.