Should Dealerships Ask for a Credit Application Before a Test Drive
The debate about whether dealerships should ask customers to complete a credit application before a test drive has gained attention recently. A video discussing this topic received strong reactions on both sides, and the reasons behind them reflect how dealerships think and how customers feel. This article explains the issue in a simple and balanced way.
Why Some Dealerships Ask for a Credit Check Before a Test Drive
Dealerships often argue that they need to protect their inventory and avoid unnecessary test drives. This is especially true for high value cars.
There are some situations where a dealership’s concerns are understandable.
Situations where a dealership may restrict test drives
Special edition vehicles like Lamborghini, Ferrari or other rare cars
Performance cars that can lose value quickly with extra miles
Limited builds where each unit is an exclusive purchase
High risk of joy rides that could damage reputation or inventory
For these vehicles, dealerships prefer to prevent random test drives because every mile counts. In such cases, many stores follow the policy that you can only drive it after you buy it. For extremely rare sports cars, this is a standard industry practice.
The Customer Side: Concerns About Credit Pulls
Many buyers do not want their credit report pulled before they even sit inside a car. A credit inquiry impacts credit score, and for some people it feels invasive.
The surprising part is that many online commenters mentioned this happening with regular cars too, such as Volkswagen or Jeep models. These are not exotic vehicles, and buyers felt uncomfortable or even judged.
Common customer issues
A credit check feels unnecessary for a simple test drive
It adds a hard inquiry on the credit score
It creates a sense of distrust early in the buying process
Customers feel judged based on their appearance or assumptions
In many cases, customers believe the dealership is not protecting the car but rather making assumptions about whether the person can afford it.
How Dealerships Can Vet Serious Buyers Without a Credit Application
There are easier ways for sales staff to understand whether the customer can afford a vehicle without forcing a credit check.
Practical alternatives to a credit pull
Checking the car the customer arrived in
Having a simple conversation about occupation or background
Allowing buyers to show proof of funds if needed
Understanding their purchase intent through discussion
For example, someone who pulls up in a similar or more expensive car clearly does not need a credit check just to test drive another vehicle. If a customer says they are a doctor or owns a business, the salesperson can often understand that the person is serious.
A Tricky Situation With No Clear Right or Wrong
It is a difficult balance for dealerships. They want to protect their inventory, avoid unnecessary miles, and make sure test drives are genuine. At the same time, customers do not want to feel disrespected or pressured.
Some stores will always restrict test drives on limited edition models. Others may have stricter policies based on past experiences.
There is no perfect answer, and both sides have valid points. The conversation around this continues to grow as more customers share their experiences online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some dealerships ask for a credit application before a test drive?
Some dealerships feel the need to protect their cars from unnecessary test drives. In their view, a credit application helps them understand if a person is serious about buying. This usually comes up when the store has already dealt with people taking cars out just for fun without any real interest in purchasing.
Is this more common with luxury or special edition cars?
Yes. Cars like Lamborghini or Ferrari are treated very differently compared to regular cars. These models are expensive, rare and sensitive to extra miles. Dealerships do not want to tack on miles for a joy ride. In many cases, you cannot even test drive a limited edition sports car until you buy it.
Why do some dealerships ask for a credit check even for regular cars?
Many people shared experiences of being asked for a credit check before driving normal cars like Volkswagen or Jeep. In these situations, it often feels less about protecting the vehicle and more about how the customer is being judged based on appearance or assumptions. This is why the topic gets mixed reactions.
Are there other ways to confirm whether a customer can afford the car?
Yes. A dealership can usually figure this out without pulling credit. For example, if someone arrives in a similar or nicer car, it is obvious they can handle the payment. Some customers are open to showing proof of funds. Even a simple conversation about what they do for a living often gives enough clarity.
Do all dealerships refuse test drives for high end cars?
Not all of them, but it is common practice for rare or limited edition sports cars. Some dealerships will never allow a test drive until the car is purchased. With these vehicles, the value is tied closely to mileage and condition, so the store is simply being careful.
Is it rude for a dealership to ask for a credit application?
Opinions are split. Some people feel it is unnecessary and uncomfortable. Others understand why a dealership might do it depending on the car. There is no clear right or wrong answer because it depends on the vehicle, the customer and the dealership’s past experiences.
