What if I can’t start an unfamiliar car?

Check that the brake (AT) or clutch (MT) is pressed, the selector is in P/N, and the key fob is inside. Ask the owner about the exact start sequence: Start/Stop button, key slot, rotary selector, etc.

How do I get used to the pedals and steering quickly?

Spend 10–15 minutes on an empty lot: smooth starts/stops, tight turns, a simulated emergency stop. You’ll learn pedal feel, ABS behaviour and steering effort.

Should I go straight to the highway?

No. First adapt at low speed, check lights, brakes and transmission response. Hit the highway only when the car feels natural.

How can Sicher-Check help at the selection stage?

We arrange a test drive, perform a full inspection (body/paint, OBD, documents), send a photo report with recommendations, and help with price negotiations.

I’m taking the wheel of a new-to-me car: quick checklist & tips

Sitting down in an unfamiliar car can feel like jumping from a jet into a UFO. No panic needed: every car has its quirks. Treat the process like an adventure — after a couple of short drills the car will feel almost “yours”.

Prep for the first drive

✔️Seating & visibility. Adjust seat height/reach/backrest and mirrors to see car edges and blind spots.
✔️Seat belt. Always start with it — it’s the first safety step.
✔️Primary controls. Wheel, pedals, parking brake (mechanical/electric) — everything should be within reach.
✔️Engine start. Key, key slot or Start/Stop button (press the brake for automatics).
✔️Cluster & warnings. Fuel level, warning lamps, no active error messages.
✔️Lights & horn. Low/high beam, fogs, indicators, hazards, horn.
✔️Assist systems. Cruise control, parking sensors, camera — quickly learn how to activate them.

Questions to ask the owner before driving/buying

❓Exact start sequence? Do I need to press brake/clutch?
❓When was the last service and current mileage?
❓Required fuel/energy (octane/diesel/gas/EV) and any refuelling/charging quirks?
❓Tire pressure and age — recommended values?
❓Transmission type, manual mode/paddles and how to use them.
❓Feature specifics: keyless entry, heaters, driver assists.
❓Documents: registration, service book, TÜV/Dekra records.

Control differences: features, not flaws

An AT selector with P-R-N-D, a joystick shifter, many steering-wheel buttons and assistants — all normal. Practice on an empty lot: short forward/reverse moves, tight turns, smooth braking. You’ll adapt quickly and enjoy the comfort.

Pre-departure checklist

📜Fuel and oil levels are fine; no active warnings on the dash.
📜Tires undamaged; pressure at the recommended setting.
📜Lights — low/high/stop/indicators working.
📜Brakes — predictable pedal travel, no odd noises.
📜Doors/hood — close properly; loose items secured.

Adaptation: first steps on the road

⚠️Start unrushed. Learn throttle and brake response; try a safe ABS stop.
⚠️Smooth manoeuvres. A quiet car park is the best 10–20 minute trainer.
⚠️Transmission. Cycle AT modes or MT gears; watch engine revs and shifts.
⚠️Noise & vibration. Listen to engine/suspension; if in doubt, ask a specialist.
⚠️Comfort. Set climate, media and seating — reduces fatigue and mistakes.

Choosing a car before you buy

Compare several options and powertrain variants.
Prioritise: running costs, maintenance, size, safety.
Insist on independent checks: technical, OBD, paint and documents.
Don’t confuse “cool features” with reliability — judge engineering and condition.

Our services — selection and inspection help

🔥Choice consultation. Tailored to your tasks and budget.
🔥Test drive & escort. We ride with you (or instead of you) and give feedback immediately.
🔥Technical inspection & sourcing. Body/paint, OBD scan, suspension, brakes, legal checks.
🔥Paperwork. Help with the deal and insurance.

Request help All services Online request

FAQ — frequently asked questions

The Check Engine came on during my first drive — is it critical?

Not always. Stop safely, read the message, check the fuel cap and for obvious symptoms. An OBD scan will tell more: many codes aren’t critical, but none should be ignored.

How do I know the brake pedal feels “right”?

Travel should be predictable, without a “dead” zone. In an emergency stop you’ll feel ABS pulsing and the car remains steerable. If it pulls or squeals — have it inspected.

Do I need a long test drive?

Ideally 15–20 minutes in mixed conditions: city, parking drills, and a stretch at 80–100 km/h. That’s when hidden behaviours show up.

I’m taking the wheel of a new-to-me car