Final answer:
Before driving a rented or borrowed car, it's crucial to test its brake and steering systems for safety and familiarity with vehicle controls like the steering wheel and center console.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before driving a vehicle that you have rented or borrowed, it is important to test the vehicle's brake and steering systems. You should familiarize yourself with the steering wheel and its responsiveness, ensure that the brake pedal has the proper resistance and brings the car to a stop effectively, and check other controls such as the window control, the cruise control button, the radio volume knob, the gear shifter, and elements on the center console to ensure all are functioning properly. This will help you to drive safely and with confidence, understanding the vehicle's responses and how to adjust them for driving conditions.