Can you get cover for test-driving a private seller’s car?

Are You Automatically Insured to Test-Drive a Car?

Unlike test-driving at a dealership, a private seller is unlikely to have insurance that covers other drivers. Many people assume they can jump into someone else’s car for a test drive without worry, but that’s rarely the case.

There are a few ways you might be insured already, but it depends on your circumstances:

• Existing Policy with ‘Driving Other Cars’ Cover: Some fully comprehensive policies allow the policyholder to drive another person’s car, but this is typically only for third-party cover, meaning any damage to the seller’s car wouldn’t be covered. Even then, many policies exclude this feature altogether, so don’t assume you have it.
• Being Added as a Named Driver: The seller could contact their insurer to add you as a named driver for the test drive, but this is time-consuming and not always possible for short-term use.

So, what’s the best way to ensure you’re covered?

Short-Term Cover for Test-Driving a Car

One of the easiest and most reliable ways to get insurance for a test drive is by arranging short-term cover. Temporary car insurance policies can be set up quickly, sometimes within minutes, and allow you to legally drive the car whilst ensuring both you and the seller are protected.

Short-term policies typically offer:

• Comprehensive cover for the duration of the test drive.
• Protection against accidental damage.
• No impact on the seller’s existing insurance policy.

These policies are usually flexible, allowing cover from as little as an hour up to a few days. If you’re planning on buying the car and driving it home, this could be a convenient option as it might also cover your journey post-purchase.

What if you take the wheel without insurance?

Driving without insurance is illegal in the UK, even if you’re just taking the car for a short spin around the block. If caught, you could face:

• A fine of up to £300.
• Six points on your driving licence.
• Having the vehicle seized or impounded.

It’s not just you who could face trouble - the seller may also be penalised for allowing an uninsured driver to use their car.

Other Alternatives to Short-Term Cover

Whilst short-term cover is a convenient option, there are a couple of other ways to ensure you’re legally covered for a test drive:

1. Ask the Seller to Drive

If you’re unable to arrange cover yourself, one alternative is to have the seller drive the car whilst you sit in as a passenger. It’s not quite the same as getting a feel for the car yourself, but at least you can listen for any unusual noises, check the ride quality, and observe how the car handles different road conditions.

2. Use a Trusted Mechanic or Third-Party Inspection

Instead of driving the car yourself, you could hire a professional mechanic or vehicle inspector to check it over. Whilst this doesn’t replace a test drive, it can provide a safe feeling that the car is mechanically sound.

What to Check Before Test-Driving a Car

Once you’re insured and ready to drive, there are a few key things to check during the test drive:

• Brakes: Do they feel responsive? Does the car pull to one side when braking?
• Steering: Does it feel smooth and controlled, or does it feel loose?
• Acceleration and Gears: Does the car pick up speed smoothly? Any crunching noises from the gearbox?
• Suspension: Listen for any knocking noises over bumps.
• Warning Lights: Ensure there are no dashboard warning lights indicating underlying issues.

All Things Considered:

Before test-driving a private seller’s car, make sure you’re legally covered. Whilst some drivers may have ‘driving other cars’ cover, this is rare, and even when available, it’s usually limited to third-party only. The best way to stay protected is by arranging short-term cover, which provides comprehensive protection without affecting the seller’s policy.

If you’re in the process of buying a car and need temporary insurance for a test drive, click below to find out more and get a quote.