Do 4S stores charge for test drives?
2 Answers
No charge, only a deposit is required. Below are the relevant details about test drives: Required documents: ID card, driver's license, deposit. Test drive process: Call the salesperson in advance to schedule a test drive. During off-peak seasons, the test drive can often be arranged on the same day. On the scheduled test drive day, customers need to bring the above documents to the 4S store, fill out a test drive registration form and agreement, and pay the test drive deposit. Customers should carefully read the test drive agreement, which covers issues related to traffic violations and accidents during the test drive. After completing the procedures, the test drive can begin. Test drives are usually limited to designated areas around the 4S store, typically the roads surrounding the store.
I just went to the 4S store for several test drives of new cars, and the experience was fantastic. Test drives are basically free, costing not a single penny, which is the standard practice at 4S stores. It's best to make an appointment before you go, either by phone or through a WeChat mini-program, telling them the model you want to test and the time. When you arrive at the store, present your valid driver's license and ID card, and the sales consultant will quickly verify them before taking you to the car. The test drive route is usually in a safe area around the store, lasting about 10-15 minutes, allowing you to experience acceleration, braking, and handling performance. After the drive, return to the store to discuss your impressions, and the salesperson might give you a small gift or a drink. The purpose of free test drives is to promote new cars and attract you to place an order, so don't worry about charges; however, in case of an accident, you might need to bear responsibility, so it's advisable to ask about the store's insurance policy in advance. Overall, this is a smart way to test the waters before buying a car. Personally, I tried an electric SUV, and it was exhilarating—just spending a little time to get a deep understanding of the car.
