A test drive is useful to a genuine buyer, but it should never begin with an unknown person simply being handed the keys. Both buyer and seller can make the meeting safer by agreeing expectations in advance and refusing pressure to skip sensible checks.
Agree the plan before meeting
Choose daylight and a familiar meeting place. Share the time, location and the other person’s contact details with somebody you trust. Sellers should plan a route that includes ordinary roads and a safe place to change drivers; buyers should explain what they reasonably need to check.
Do not pack important documents, cash or unrelated valuables in the vehicle. Keep your phone charged and avoid moving the meeting to an isolated location at short notice.
Checks for the seller
- Ask to see the buyer’s driving licence and check that the photograph and name match the person present.
- Confirm that the buyer is insured to drive the vehicle. Do not assume that another policy automatically provides suitable cover.
- Keep the keys while inspecting documents and changing seats. Do not leave the engine running with the vehicle unattended.
- Accompany the test drive and, where practical, have another adult present at the viewing.
Checks for the buyer
- Confirm that the vehicle, seller and address are consistent with the advert and available paperwork.
- Before moving off, adjust the seat and mirrors and ask how unfamiliar controls work.
- Drive legally and respectfully. A test drive is not permission to test the limits of the vehicle.
- If the vehicle feels unsafe, shows a warning light or the seller’s behaviour concerns you, stop in a safe public place and end the viewing.
During and after the drive
Use a route long enough to assess starting, steering, braking, gears, visibility and normal road-speed behaviour without taking unnecessary risks. Keep conversation limited while the buyer is concentrating. Any change of driver should happen only when parked safely with the handbrake applied.
Afterwards, switch off the engine and return the keys before discussing price or payment. A successful test drive does not remove the need to check the vehicle’s identity, history and documents. Never rely on urgency, a screenshot or an unexpected payment arrangement.
For more practical precautions, visit the MotorHarbour Safety Centre.