CarMax's 24-Hour Test Drive: Everything You Need To Know
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Despite many vehicle retailers pushing the idea of an all-online buying process, there’s no substitute for getting behind the wheel of a car that’s being considered. Test drives allow prospective buyers to better understand how a vehicle handles while evaluating features and functionality. The CarMax 24-hour Test Drive expands on this traditional dealer experience.
While some individual retailers have offered extended test drives on a case-by-case basis, CarMax’s program formalized the approach at all 240 nationwide locations. The Virginia-based megadealer launched its 24-hour offering in early 2021 to stay competitive in an inventory-challenged marketplace.
Advantages of the CarMax 24-Hour Test Drive
CarMax turns the idea of the traditional dealership test drive on its head. Rather than take a 15-minute trip around the block or on local roads, a car shopper can see what a vehicle is like in real-world conditions. That means they’re free to run errands or drive to work, all things that are part of daily living.
This extended test drive allows customers to determine if a car:
- Accommodates children and pets
- Holds groceries and gear
- Parks easily in the garage and other everyday spots
- Gets the approval of friends and family
- Passes an independent mechanical inspection
It all adds up to a more realistic assessment of the car and the ability of a CarMax customer to make a fully informed decision.
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CarMax 24-Hour Test Drive Restrictions and Requirements
Unsurprisingly, CarMax has limitations with its 24-hour test drives. These steps ensure a good experience for its customers while minimizing the potential for abuse. Here are some essential things to consider if you want to check out a CarMax vehicle for an extended period.
- Driver’s License: Anyone taking out a CarMax vehicle for a test drive (of any length) must be licensed to operate a vehicle on public roads.
- Insurance: CarMax asks 24-hour test drive participants to present proof of insurance to confirm the necessary comprehensive and collision coverage in case of an accident. At the CarMax location, you may be asked to contact your insurance company by phone to verify coverage.
- Inventory Restrictions: According to CarMax, not every vehicle is eligible for an overnight test drive. However, the company doesn’t detail what cars are excluded from the program.
- Time and Mileage Limitations: There’s a 150-mile limit for each 24-hour test drive, and customers “may only take two 24-hour test drives within a 30-day period.“
- Condition: CarMax expects a vehicle returning from a 24-hour test drive to be in the same condition it originally left the dealership.
- Other Restrictions: The CarMax 24-Hour Test Drive program is unavailable for online purchases, including those for express pickup or delivery.
The CarMax Return Policy
For those worried that a 24-hour test drive isn’t long enough, CarMax offers a 30-day return policy, which enables customers to get their money back if the car is unsatisfactory (provided there’s no change in condition and fewer than 1,500 miles added to the vehicle). Previously, CarMax offered a seven-day return period but expanded it to 30 days at the same time the 24-hour test drive became official.
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More About Extended Test Drives
While the CarMax 24-hour Test Drive program formalizes extended behind-the-wheel time for prospective car buyers, most other car dealers are willing to do the same. The theory here is that the more time one spends with a car, the greater the likelihood of making a purchase. It’s easier to envision owning a particular vehicle if it’s already sitting in your car garage or loaded with kids and groceries.
If you’re shopping somewhere besides CarMax, ask the dealer if the car under consideration is available for overnight use. You may even be able to check out the vehicle for additional time; it all depends on how eager the dealer is to do business and how in demand that particular car is.
Like CarMax, the dealer will ask for a driver’s license and insurance information. There may be additional requirements like a security deposit or completion of a credit application. Before driving away, get any conditions in writing, such as mileage limits and a return deadline.
How to Maximize a 24-Hour Test Drive
Whether you’re taking advantage of an extended test drive at CarMax or another dealer, there are steps to follow to ensure the experience is worthwhile. An entire day may seem like a long duration to check out a car, but the time goes quickly.
- Interior and Exterior: Explore the inside and outside of the car before hitting the road. You’ll want to ensure there’s no damage and that the colors and materials are exactly what you want. This action is critical with a used car that may not be in perfect condition.
- Features and Options: Review all the standard and optional equipment that expect to come with the vehicle, paying particular attention to make-or-break features. Importantly, don’t assume a specific component is included with that particular car; ask for confirmation, either through the factory window sticker or being shown. If needed, ask for a demonstration of how the equipment works; this can be especially helpful with the latest infotainment and safety technology.
- Driving Locales: Your test drive should include a robust mix of highways and local roads. Pick a route you frequent, but also select less-common locales to better understand how the car responds across different settings. Remember to practice parking at home, in public garages, and other tight spaces.
- Handling and Maneuverability: While driving around, take a mental note about how the car responds. Does acceleration meet your needs? Do you feel confident while cornering? Outward visibility should also be good, with minimal blind spots.
- Real-World Usability: Put the car to the test by seeing how it handles everyday uses. Load up the usual crew of adults, children, and pets. Fill up the trunk or cargo area with the regular stuff you carry. Is everyone comfortable with all needs being met?
- Inspection: If the purchase involves a used car, consider using a portion of the extended test drive to have the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic. Most garages offer this service, which takes about an hour, or you can hire a mobile mechanic to come to your home or work.
Keep a notepad or smartphone note app handy to record observations after each stop. This way, you’ll have a better recollection of the test drive.
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