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Can I test drive a privately sold car on my own insurance cover?

An article in the newspaper says that drivers are unaware of insurance exclusions relating to driving a partner's car, a test drive or any situation when driving a car that isn't your own. If I went to a dealer and asked to test drive a car before buying it, which I've done many times in the past, am I covered under their policy or mine? Also, what is the difference if I'm test driving a car through a private sale?

Asked on 19 November 2018 by Neil Littman

Answered by Honest John
The simple answer is you need to ask the dealer. If your insurance company allows you the "extension of use to drive other vehicles", then you are covered to drive any other vehicle (third party only) as long as that vehicle has an insurance policy in place. If it does not, you are not covered. If you are buying privately, this is very important. A dealer should have cover for you on test drives, but smaller dealers/ traders may not.

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