What does manageability really mean?

Handling refers to the ability of a car to steer a car. Technicians and service technicians alike determine vehicle drivability by adhering to a condition checklist.

When looking for a new car, truck or SUV, you may have heard the term "handling". But what does this frequently used term really mean? It is derived from two separate words - "to drive" and "capable" - but reversed to mean "ability to drive". This term usually describes a vehicle that someone is considering buying.

There are about 9 common questions auto mechanics and service technicians ask to determine the condition of a vehicle during a pre-purchase inspection. If the function does not work, the vehicle is marked with a special condition, which may be due to weather conditions, starting, or other action. If any of the above problems occur, it will be linked to an OBD-II diagnostic code to determine the probable cause. Each of the items listed below will be tested to determine the handling of any car, truck or SUV.

1. Will the car roll over when the key is turned?

Known as: State without start

When the key is turned to start the car but the car does not respond, this is called a no start situation. On the way to a full start, the vehicle's auxiliary functions such as air conditioning, heating and radio will turn on as the engine cranks. If it doesn't, it could indicate a number of things, such as a dead battery, a bad starter, or a seized engine, that are interfering with driving.

2. Does the car start when the key is turned?

Known as: Crank-No Start Status

Perhaps the most important aspect of any vehicle is its ability to start. In order to have controllability, any car, truck, or SUV must start correctly - this means that when the key is turned, the car must start without hesitation. Several individual components and systems must work together seamlessly to start a vehicle. A professional mechanic will check these parts to make sure they are in good condition before declaring it a good buy.

3. Does the engine vibrate, stall or stall after starting?

Known as: Start and stop status

Starting the engine is one thing, and its subsequent smooth operation can be a problem for many used cars. To determine if a car is a good buy and therefore "driveable", a professional mechanic will inspect the engine after it has been run. They will check that the engine does not stall, shake, vibrate, have erratic idle speeds or vacuum leaks. Although some of these problems can be solved through scheduled maintenance, if there are serious problems, the vehicle will not be considered roadworthy.

4. Does the car stop without dying?

Known as: Dying from a problem with acceleration

Your vehicle's brakes are vital to safe operation. If the brakes squeak, squeal, or screech when applied, this indicates a mechanical problem or a serious braking problem. Brakes can be repaired fairly easily and inexpensively, but they should be replaced or repaired before the vehicle is driven.

It can also be due to dirty or worn components such as the throttle body, throttle position sensor, idle air control module, or EGR valve.

5. Does the car stall, shake, vibrate or stall when accelerating?

Known as: Hesitation/dying on acceleration

If the car, truck, or SUV you are considering vibrating at speeds above 45 mph, the vehicle's handling will be affected. Some of the most common sources of this problem include unbalanced tires and wheels, damaged suspension or steering components, damaged or worn wheel bearings, or warped brake discs. Be smart when buying a car; have the car tested by a professional mechanic.

6. Does the car start and run better when it is warm or when it is cold?

Known as: Cold start problem or hot start problem

Starting related vehicle temperature problems are usually the result of problems with the fuel and/or ignition system. Fuel injection failures can cause problems when the engine is hot or cold, but it is more related to a faulty sensor in a "hot start" condition. Also, an overheated relay in the ignition computer can also contribute to the "hot start" problem.

7. Does the car periodically stall and refuse to start?

Known as: Intermittent Dying Problem

Intermittent ignition may be caused by a malfunction in the ignition system, such as the ignition switch or coil. It can also be caused by sensor malfunctions, loose connections, or problems with the connection relays - mostly wiring-related functions. Attempting to drive a car that seems to accidentally stall is not safe; it can switch off in inconvenient places and lead to an accident.

8. Does the car lose power on long climbs?

Known as: Lack of power during acceleration

This problem is usually due to clogged or dirty emission system components such as a fuel filter, catalytic converter, or an air mass sensor damaged by a dirty air filter. The lack of power is mostly due to the component being too blocked or clogged with buildup of debris and as a result the vehicle will not perform properly on slopes.

9. Does the car misfire when accelerating?

Known as: Misfiring problem under load

When a car misfires while trying to accelerate, it is also usually carrying a heavier load than usual. This is often due to bad ignition components or a faulty mass air flow sensor. These parts become blocked or corroded, eventually causing the engine to misfire or flash back when it has to work harder. Not changing the oil can also contribute to this condition by allowing carbon deposits to get inside the hydraulic lifters.

Whether you're buying a used car from a dealer or from an individual, it's important to determine the handling of any car, truck, or SUV. By understanding what handling really means, you will be better prepared to buy a used car. For peace of mind, it would be better to have a professional mechanic come to your place to inspect the car before buying to assess the level of handling.