Meeting buyers

If you decide to sell your car privately, you will have to meet potential buyers to allow them to inspect and test-drive the car.

• You must look after your own security and your car. If you feel vulnerable, ensure you have a friend or relative around.
• You should aim to meet them at your home in daylight hours to give them plenty of opportunity to examine the car thoroughly.
• Ensure the buyer has at least third-party insurance cover. (If they have comprehensive cover on their own car, then they'll have third-party cover on your car.) Alternatively, you could change your policy to cover any driver during the selling process.
• Ask to see a driving licence, and make a note of the licence number.
• Make it clear to the person driving that any speeding fines incurred on the drive will be their responsibility.
• Never allow a potential buyer to drive your car without you. When it is time for the test drive, get into the passenger seat and then hand over the keys.
• Allow the buyer to drive on a variety of roads if possible and for a decent amount of time – at least half an hour. If you try to cut it short, they might think you have something to hide.