Test driving a car - everything you need to know
Follow our helpful tips and advice when it comes to test driving a car in this useful guide.
Key points
Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, even if you're just test driving a vehicle
Insurance coverage for test drives varies; dealerships generally provide it, but private sellers require you to arrange your own, often through temporary policies
Driving without insurance, even during a test drive, is illegal and carries significant penalties, including a £300 fixed penalty and 6 points on your licence
Do I need car insurance to test drive a car?
Yes, you need insurance to test drive a car in the UK, even if it's just for a short test drive. It's illegal to drive on public roads without insurance. Here are the main test driving scenarios and insurance requirements:
Insurance for dealership test drives
Car insurance dealerships usually have car insurance policies that cover test drives. This means their insurance should protect you during the drive. However, always confirm this with the dealer before driving.
Insurance for private seller test drives
When test driving a car from a private seller differs, you must have insurance to drive on public roads. Depending on your existing cover, your insurance might protect you when driving other cars. If not, you'll need to arrange your own insurance.
Temporary car insurance
For short-term needs, explore temporary or day insurance policies for test driving purposes. These policies are flexible and quickly arranged, ensuring legal coverage without long-term commitments.
Do I need insurance if test driving a vehicle from a private seller?
Yes, when buying a car from a private seller, the responsibility lies with you as the buyer. Private sellers typically do not provide insurance for test drives.
To protect yourself, consider arranging temporary insurance. Remember, driving without insurance is illegal and risky. Always ensure you have the necessary coverage before driving.
What happens if I don't have car insurance when test driving a car?
Driving without insurance, even during a test drive, is illegal and carries significant penalties. You could face a £300 fixed penalty and 6 points on your licence.
If the case goes to court, the penalties can increase to an unlimited fine and potential driving disqualification.
What should I check when test driving a car?
When test driving a car, here are the key areas to focus on:
Performance & handling
Acceleration: How smoothly does the car accelerate? Does it feel powerful enough for your needs?
Braking: How responsive are the brakes? Do they feel firm and reliable?
Steering: Does the steering feel precise and responsive? Does the car pull to one side?
Suspension: Does the suspension handle bumps and uneven surfaces smoothly?
Transmission: In a manual, does the clutch engage and disengage smoothly? In an automatic, are gear changes smooth?
Engine noise: Listen for any unusual noises, rattles, or vibrations from the engine
Exhaust smoke: Check for any excessive smoke (black or blue) coming from the exhaust
Comfort and interior
Seat adjustability: Can you easily adjust the seat to a comfortable position?
Visibility: How is the visibility from the driver's seat, including blind spots?
Controls: Are the controls easy to reach and operate?
Noise levels: Is the car relatively quiet at different speeds, or is there excessive wind or road noise?
Space and comfort: Is there enough headroom and legroom in both the front and rear? Is the boot space adequate?
Interior features: Test all features like the infotainment system, air conditioning, and any other electronic features
Other important checks
Tires: Check the condition and tread depth of the tires
Lights: Test all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
Brakes: Test the handbrake, especially on an incline
Electronics: Test all electrical systems like windows, central locking, and sunroof (if applicable)
Listen for unusual noises: Pay close attention to any squeaks, rattles, or other unusual sounds
Manoeuvrability: Practice parking and turning to assess how easy the car is to handle
What roads should I drive on when testing a car?
Testing on various road types offers numerous benefits when test driving a car. It helps gauge the car's handling on highways, city streets, and rural roads. This variety reveals a lot about the vehicle's suspension, braking, and overall comfort.
Different road conditions also significantly affect the car's performance. For instance, driving on wet or uneven roads can demonstrate the car's grip and response to adverse conditions.
Safety is paramount, especially on unfamiliar roads. Always ensure the car has necessary safety features and remain vigilant to avoid potential hazards.
Tips for test driving a car
When you're ready to test drive a car here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your drive:
Scheduling your test drive: Aim to book your test drive early in the day when you're fresh and alert. Avoid busy times such as weekends or late afternoons to ensure you have ample time and less traffic to deal with.
What to bring and prepare for: Always carry your driving licence, a form of ID, and proof of insurance if required. It's wise to bring a notepad and pen to jot down your observations or any questions that might arise during the drive.
Evaluating the car during and after the drive: Pay attention to how the car handles in different driving conditions. Check the brakes, steering, and acceleration. After the drive, don't rush your decision. Reflect on how the car felt and whether it meets your needs and expectations.
Author
Collette Shackleton
Content Writer
Collette Shackleton is a highly skilled Content Writer who has over nine years’ experience creating helpful and engaging personal finance content for consumers. Collette shares her experience as a...
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Beth Leslie
Senior Insurance Content Editor
Beth is an experienced writer and editor who specialises in financial and economic content. She is currently the Senior Insurance Content Editor for MoneySuperMarket. Beth is passionate about making...
