Doing a test drive is one of the most important steps for vehicle purchase (and also a lease transfer). It is the final "handover" experience, where you literally preview yourself before making the final decision.
In our Lease Takeover Marketplace, we have observed how it unfolds: the buyer setups an appointment with the seller, then they both meet, and an informal test drive occurs. It is what leads to most of the completed transfers and a crucial step in the sale of the vehicle.
Test Driving a Lease Transfer with the COVID situation
The year 2020 has obviously changed lots of things regarding how we deal with what we knew as "normal," bringing us to what is known as the new normality: facemasks, social distancing, hand-sanitizer and soap... we all know, so I do not need to specify too much.
It has resulted in many of our customers to be worried about the test-drive process. And it is right to be worried. I would be worried too, although there are some safe workarounds you could follow:
- You could decide to "not allowing a test drive" on your car. Although the only safe scenario with the COVID19 situation is no socialization at all, you can decide not to allow potential buyers to test drive your car. It will result in lower chances of getting your vehicle sold, but it is your right to do it your way and not feel forced to expose yourself if you don't want to, even under the recommended government guidelines.
- You could get a transparent car divider. These are the protective films that Uber drivers have been using since the beginning of the pandemic. These can be found at Amazon, both for separating the front seats from the back ones and also for separating the driver from the passenger seat (although not my favourite).
- Limit test drives only for buyers who have already been approved by the dealership. Once the buyer does the credit check, it is a serious commitment.
- Allow the test drive to be as short as possible. You could only allow the test drive to be around your block and only for someone who shows seriousness enough to have interest in the car.
- If the vehicle is from the current year, ask the buyer to go and test drive a similar model at the nearest dealership after explaining your concern.
Some alternatives may create more traction than others, but it all depends on what would make you feel safer in the process. Additionally, always make sure how your vehicle insurance applies for these test drives: ensure the process follows all local regulations for vehicles on the road.
And good luck with the sale!
