Are you about to buy a new car and can’t wait to finally get behind the wheel? Understandable! But before you sign the purchase contract, you should definitely take a test drive. But what does a test drive actually cost? Are there fees for it, and if so, how high are they? In this article, we clarify all important questions about the cost of a test drive.
Test Drive Cost: Mostly Free, But…
First, the good news: In most cases, a test drive is free of charge. Dealerships usually offer test drives for free to give potential buyers the opportunity to extensively test the vehicle of their choice. After all, a test drive is the best opportunity to find out if the car really suits you and your needs.
“A test drive is like the first kiss – after that, you know if there’s a spark or not,” says Dr. Markus Schmidt, an automotive economist at the University of Munich.
However, there are also exceptions where costs may apply for a test drive.
When Can Test Drive Costs Occur?
- Luxury Vehicles: For particularly expensive vehicles or sports cars, dealers may charge a fee for the test drive. This primarily serves to avoid “joyrides” and is intended to ensure that the interested party has a serious interest in buying.
- Longer Test Drives: Costs can also be incurred for longer test drives spanning several days. These are usually agreed upon individually with the dealer.
- Special Models: For rare models or classic cars that are not part of the dealer’s regular inventory, a fee may be charged for the test drive.
What to Do If the Dealership Charges a Fee?
Should the dealer charge a fee for your desired test drive, don’t hesitate to ask how much it is and what it covers. The fee is often credited back towards the purchase of the vehicle if you decide to buy.
