When going to test drive a car, how do you go about test driving without a salesman?What is the contract term?

Question

I want to test drive a car but do not want a pesky salesman to ride with me during the test drive. I have done this once before but have since forgotten the term that you use when you want this type of test drive. I believe it was something to the effect of a "buyers lease agreement" or a "buyers car agreement." Can anyone help?

Answer 1

Most dealerships require the ride-along due to insurance requirements. If you cannot get away from that, politely ask that he/she sit in the back and remain quiet. They would certainly comply.

That being said, there are borrowing agreements dealers will let folks sign, then drive the car overnight or for an extended period of time. These occur often, and you can certainly ask for this kind of test drive. Politely tell them that you are very serious about the make/model, are ready to choose very soon, and would prefer a longer test to try out some "real-world" conditions (putting in car seats, groceries, passengers, etc.). Most dealers would not mind.

Several things:

1) If you're looking at a sports car, expect that the dealer would require a salesperson on the drive. Joyriding is indeed an issue.

2) Dealers are more likely to allow you on the extended tests if you mention that you are serious about buying soon. If you come in and give off the impression that you're just "out testing cars", expect the same nonchalant attitude from the dealer.

3) When you are allowed longer test drives, you'll need to let them make a copy of your drivers license and insurance. Make sure you have both handy.