How to test drive a car
Test driving a car is a simple process that you can do at a dealership or with a private seller. At a dealership, you can schedule an appointment or ask for a test drive when browsing the lot or showroom. It's important to bring your driver's license — the dealer will make a copy of it before your test drive.
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What do you need for a test drive?
Generally, you only need a valid driver's license to test drive a car. However, what is required may vary among dealerships and states. You may want to check your state's DMV for more specifics.
Can you test drive a car without insurance?
Yes. Usually, you don't need to show proof of insurance on a test drive. If you're buying from a dealer, their insurance will usually cover damage and injuries if you have an accident during a test drive. Dealerships are legally required to insure the inventory on their lot.
This special coverage, known as garage liability insurance, is designed for commercial sellers, including new and used auto dealers. However, if there's an accident, and the dealer seeks to hold you responsible for damage to their vehicle, your insurance policy can help protect you if they attempt to recoup the repair costs from you or your insurer.
What about insurance and private sellers?
While a prospective buyer doesn't need to provide proof of insurance before a test drive when doing business with a private party, it's smart to confirm that the seller has auto insurance before you drive their car. Ask for a signed statement confirming:
- You have permission to drive the car
- The vehicle you want to purchase is insured
- You're not responsible for the car insurance deductible in the event of an accident.
How long can you test drive a car?
A standard test drive is usually 15-30 minutes, but some dealerships allow extended test drives up to 24 hours if you're serious about buying a car. If the dealership does not allow extended or overnight test drives, you can also rent a car with the same make and model to test it out for a longer time. You could also try online buying platforms that offer extended test drives before finalizing a purchase.
Plan to take a couple of short test drives first, especially if you're interested in more than one car. Once you've narrowed down your options to one or two vehicles, ask about an extended test drive.
When looking at a car from a private seller, the owner can decide if they're comfortable allowing an extended or overnight test drive. As a security measure, the seller may ask you to sign something that defines the test drive terms. Learn more about buying a car from a private seller.
Do you need insurance for an extended test drive?
For overnight test drives, the dealership may ask you to sign a waiver that you'll be financially responsible for any damage while the car is in your possession. In these cases, it's a good idea to have your own insurance. For private sellers, you may be covered under their insurance if you have their permission to drive the car. It's a good idea to get their permission in writing and double check their coverage before taking the car for a test drive.
What should you look for when test driving a new or used car?
Look for damage: Before you get behind the wheel, check the car for scratches, dents, and nicks. Even new vehicles can have some cosmetic imperfections from their time on the lot.
Test the acceleration and the brakes: Test the acceleration of the car by driving it on the highway, if possible. You can test the brakes by driving it in city traffic. These tests will also help you see how smoothly the car changes speeds and shifts gears.
Check the steering: Change lanes, and turn left and right at least once to get a feel for the steering.
Familiarize yourself with the technology: Technology in cars has changed significantly in the last decade. Ensure the vehicle has the features you want, such as Bluetooth, a navigation system, and a backup camera. Check the steering wheel controls, heating, air conditioning, radio, and other vehicle features as well.
Conduct a soundcheck: When you're on the road, pay attention to the engine, road noise, and wind sound inside the car.
Check your vision: Check the vehicle's sightlines, blind spots, and backup camera to ensure adequate visibility when you're on the road.
Assess your comfort and storage space: See how easy it is to get in and out of the car and check for legroom and headroom throughout the vehicle. Check to see if you can reach the pedals comfortably, and make sure there's enough cargo space.
Additional tips for test driving a car
Here are some more tips to get the most out of the test drive experience:
Ask to choose the route: Many dealerships have a route they ask customers to follow, but it may be too limited to make an educated buying decision. Ask if you can choose the route to get a feel for the car in different situations and try to include a variety of road surfaces like flat stretches, hills, side streets, and highway driving.
Test drive more than one vehicle: It isn't easy to evaluate a car if you don't have anything to compare it to. Test drive more than one vehicle to get a feel for multiple options.
Do your test drives on the same day: Do your test driving in one day so it's easier to compare different vehicles.
Don't rush your decision: You don't have to buy a car the same day you test drive it. Give yourself time to think about your decision to make sure it's the best choice for you.
After you've test driven and purchased your new car, insure it with Progressive. Get a car insurance quote online, or call 1-866-749-7436 to customize your coverages.
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