Is it normal for a dealer not to allow a test drive without a deposit?
I contacted a dealer approximately 100 miles away to make an appointment to test drive a car. When I got there I was told that they don’t do test drives but if after agreeing to purchase the car, and paying a deposit, I would then be allowed to take it on a ‘confirmation drive’ and if I was not happy I could then change my mind and I would get the deposit back.
Is this now standard practice?
Is this now standard practice?
Asked on 2 February 2026 by David Jordan
Answered by
David Ross
This sounds very bizarre. But ultimately, dealers are not obligated to allow test drives and some dealers may impose their own conditions such as this to deter anyone who isn't actually interested in making a purchase. By the same token it is up to you if you decide to accept these conditions, but we would want the terms of the deposit and test drive to be supplied in writing to avoid any issues in the event that you decide not to go ahead. Unless you really want this particular car, we'd suggest finding another car at a more welcoming dealer...
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