When buying a second-hand car you may soon find out that a test drive is not available and not offered by the dealer. In fact, franchise and independent dealers almost always offer a test drive, however, this is not always the case with private dealers, car supermarkets and auctions.
Not every used car dealership is that great as it may seem. In fact, when buying, or part-exchanging for a second-hand car, you better keep your eyes open to skip dealing with problems later. There are many ways you can find and purchase a used car, however, some of them have little or not at all legal back-up and asking for a test drive is one of the better ways to ensure the car is in the condition described and guaranteed. Otherwise, sometimes you are not able to take your money back after the agreement and when you are not happy with your purchase.
Once you make sure test drive is available, you should know that the details and requirements may vary from place to place. This is the reason we from Mobeo cannot simply recommend and suggest the best, time-proven and only working approach to arranging a test drive, however, we can share with you what you can eventually expect. Although at some places the car dealer may tell you that you do not need an arrangement in advance, we always recommend making sure to call the dealer beforehand, at last, you would know if the car you are interested in is still available.
You do not have to worry about insurance because usually this will be covered by the car dealer you visit. You can expect to be asked for your driver license and this is nothing to worry about. After all, a driver license is how you prove that you are who you say you are and that you are able to drive. This is a typical requirement and is a next step for the dealer to ensure safety and security, so don’t refuse to show your driver license, otherwise, you look suspicious that way and the dealer may refuse the test drive.
It is a little bit different when it comes to private sellers. First of all, make sure to call the used car seller and ask for a convenient time to visit and if a test drive is available. Once you arrange this, make sure you bring a proof that your insurance covers in case of some problem. In addition, driving license is once again a thing you will be asked for. Again, this is proof that you are who you say you are and that you can drive. Some sellers may have specific requirements. Do not ask for test driving alone, because that way you look suspicious. In the most common situation, the seller would prefer to be with you, sometimes they may want to have someone with them for extra safety.