Car Dealerships: What You Need to Know Before You Walk In
Walking into a car dealership can feel like stepping into a maze. You see shiny cars, friendly salespeople, and a lot of paperwork. The good news? You don’t have to guess what’s coming next. This guide breaks down the most common dealership practices – especially test drives and credit checks – and gives you a cheat‑sheet of questions to keep the process smooth.
How Dealerships Handle Test Drives
Most dealers love to let you test drive a car, but they usually have a few rules. For high‑end models like Ferraris, you’ll often need to prove you’re a serious buyer and have the cash to back it up. The same goes for typical new‑car test drives – many places will ask for a valid driver’s licence and a quick credit check to make sure you’re not just here for a free ride.
When it comes to mileage, most showrooms stick to a 10‑15 mile drive over 20‑30 minutes. That’s enough time to feel the steering, check the brakes, and see how the car handles city traffic. Some dealers might let you go farther if you ask nicely, but always confirm the limit before you hit the road.
Questions to Ask Before You Sign
Before you hand over a signed contract, fire off these simple questions:
- Do you run a credit check for a test drive, and will it affect my score?
- What’s the exact mileage allowance for the test drive?
- Are there any dealer fees hidden in the price?
- Can I see the vehicle’s service history?
- What’s the return policy if the car doesn’t meet my expectations?
Getting clear answers now saves you headaches later. If a dealer seems evasive, it’s a red flag – walk away and try another location.
Remember, every dealership has its own policy. Some smaller used‑car lots might skip the credit check altogether, while big chains usually have stricter procedures. Knowing the range of practices helps you compare offers and pick the one that matches your comfort level.
Finally, don’t forget to bring a friend or family member on the test drive. An extra set of eyes can spot issues you might miss, and having a second opinion makes the buying decision less stressful.
Armed with this info, you’ll walk into any car dealership feeling confident, not confused. Happy hunting, and enjoy the ride!
Do car dealerships still offer test drives if it's storming?
Car dealerships usually offer test drives to potential customers, but during storms, it is not always possible. For safety reasons, most dealerships will not allow test drives in bad weather conditions. If a customer is interested in a test drive, it is best to call the dealership ahead of time to inquire about the current weather conditions and find out if it is possible to take a test drive. Ultimately, the decision to offer a test drive in stormy weather lies with the dealership, so it is important to check with them first.