10 STEPS TO SELLING YOUR CAR

Step 6: Conduct a Safe and Well-Planned Test Drive

Now that the car is ready, it's time to prepare for the test drive. Plan out a route with two things in mind: Safety and convenience.

First, let us recommend a few things about your safety, which is the most important issue when showing your car. Always introduce yourself with your first and last names and ask the same of your prospective buyer. It's OK to have a friend with you while you make the introductions so the buyer is aware that you are not alone. Never just hand someone the keys to your car to drive, even if the buyer says something like, "I'll leave my car here with the keys." We have heard of cases in which the car that the alleged prospect was driving was stolen.

Test Drive Wisely
At all times, you need to supervise how your car is being driven and that it is not being abused. A reasonable person will realize that your car is important to you and that you are not accustomed to allowing others to drive it. Generally, we would prefer not to go on a test drive with too many other people. At the least, it's distracting, and you don't want to be outnumbered. Allow the buyer and spouse to drive and, if they have a friend that is their advisor or mechanic, that person can drive next.

Whenever possible, avoid late-night drives in unpopulated areas. If the prospect wants to get out and look around the car while you are on the drive, remove the key from the ignition and keep it with you. Chances are the person who is interested in your car is not from your neighborhood, so it's appropriate for you to politely recommend and determine the best places to demonstrate the vehicle.

Test Drive for Convenience
The route should be convenient. While you probably want to have a combination of driving conditions in mind, so you can best demonstrate how the car performs, you don't want a route that is scary or uncomfortable for the prospective buyer. If a person has to merge onto a busy high-speed highway or unfamiliar street, it could be uncomfortable, or even dangerous, and the buyer's impression of the car could be tainted. Quiet neighborhoods with no surprises, such as blind corners or sudden dips, are best.

First You, Then Them
You should drive the car first so that you can explain all of the controls and the car's operation. Then, when the prospect gets behind the wheel, he or she will be more comfortable with the car. And always maintain control of the keys.