The famous test drive is many motorists' favorite part of the car-buying process. After spending several hours or possibly even days trying to find and negotiate the perfect car, finally settling in behind the wheel of one that's caught your eye can be a great feeling. But test drives are about more than just taking a victory lap. There are a few things you'll want to keep in mind before signing on the dotted line to make sure you make the most of your test drive.

Don't forget the little things
It may not be as exciting as listening to the engine purr the first time you step on the accelerator, but taking time to do a quick visual inspection before you get into the car and again before you turn the ignition is just as important. Bankrate.com suggested a series of things to inspect on the car's exterior, such as seeing that the tires have sufficient tread and checking to see if there are any fluid leaks. It's important that your potential car is as comfortable as it is convenient, so make sure you check all the doors and windows, and pop the trunk a few times just to confirm everything works well.

Once you get inside, Edmunds suggested taking time to check the car fits you well. You'll be spending a lot of time behind the wheel, so time spent verifying you've got ample headroom and legroom, and making sure the seat and steering wheel adjust to your liking is time well spent.

Curb your expectations
Test driving is an important part of the car-buying process, but it's important to note that it does come with restrictions. According to Car and Driver, the rules of which cars can be tested and by whom vary from lot to lot. Some dealerships restrict the time or distance you can take a car, or require a salesperson to ride along or drive with you. Typically, the more obvious you make it that you're an honest, serious buyer, the more likely it will be that you'll find yourself in the driver's seat going for a test spin.

When the time comes for you to buy a car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars on the lot, and an in-house finance department ready to help you afford the used car, truck or van that's right for you.