A Buyer Wants a Test Drive. What Should You Check First?

A buyer comes to see the car and asks to take it around the block. That’s a reasonable request, but you’ve only just met. Before a test drive when selling your car, check your insurance and agree on the plan. “I’ll be right back” isn’t much of a plan.

Call your insurer before the appointment

Explain that a buyer may drive your vehicle. Ask whether your current coverage applies, what happens if they damage your car and which deductible could be yours to pay. Describe any unusual circumstances rather than assuming a friend’s insurance experience applies to you.

Quebec’s Infoinsurance explains that permission and a valid licence matter, and that compensation for damage depends on the coverage in place. Read its guidance on lending a vehicle, then check your own coverage with your insurer.

Agree on the drive before giving the keys

Choose a public meeting place in daylight. Ask to see the driver’s licence and check that it belongs to the person in front of you. Don’t collect or circulate unnecessary identity documents. Agree on who will drive, who will accompany them, the route and the expected duration.

A useful message is: “We can do a short drive after you’ve looked over the car. I’ll check your licence first, and we’ll agree on the route together.” A buyer who objects to every reasonable condition is giving you information worth considering.

Don’t turn a safety concern into a sales pitch

If the car has a suspected brake, steering or other safety problem, get professional advice before anyone drives it. An inspection or transport arrangement may be more appropriate. Be honest about warning lights and known faults before the appointment.

Remove valuables and personal paperwork, and have someone you trust know where you’re. If you feel uncomfortable, end the meeting. You don’t owe a stranger a drive.

Prefer a direct-buyer assessment? Send Car Buyers Montreal your car’s details and ask how the inspection would work before booking your time.