Yes, you can most likely test drive a car during a lockdown, as automotive sales are often classified as an essential service. However, the process has changed significantly to prioritize contactless interactions and strict health protocols. Dealerships have adapted with scheduled appointments, thorough sanitization, and limited physical contact to ensure customer and employee safety.
The key is to initiate the process online. Instead of walking into a dealership, you should visit their website to browse inventory and use online tools to schedule a specific test drive time. This allows the dealer to prepare the vehicle and minimize your time inside the showroom. Many dealers now offer at-home test drives, where a representative brings the car directly to you, often following a no-contact procedure.
Expect a highly sanitized experience. The vehicle should be thoroughly cleaned before and after your drive, with high-touch areas like the steering wheel, gear selector, and door handles disinfected. You might be asked to provide your own driver's license for verification instead of handing it over, and the salesperson may follow in a separate car or maintain distance during the drive.
Here’s a typical contactless test drive protocol:
| Step | Procedure | Key Data/Considerations |
|---|
| 1. Online Inquiry | Browse inventory and schedule a test drive via the dealer's website. | Over 85% of dealerships now offer online scheduling. |
| 2. Pre-Screening | You may be asked health questions prior to confirming the appointment. | Common protocols include temperature checks upon arrival. |
| 3. Vehicle Prep | The specific car is fully sanitized and pulled up for your arrival. | Focus on 10+ high-touch interior surfaces. |
| 4. Paperwork | Digital forms are often sent ahead of time to be completed online. | Reduces in-person contact time by an average of 15 minutes. |
| 5. The Drive | Keys are left in the car; salesperson may follow in another vehicle. | Solo drives are less common but sometimes arranged with a deposit. |
| 6. Post-Drive | The vehicle is quarantined and sanitized again before the next use. | Standard practice is a 2-4 hour quarantine period. |
Many brands have also enhanced their virtual test drive options, which include detailed video walkarounds and even facilitated drives via video call. While not a substitute for being behind the wheel, this is a valuable first step to narrow down your choices without leaving home. Always call the dealership ahead of time to confirm their specific safety measures.
