BayGBM

Last year I test drove an ML 350 and established a good rapport with the salesman. Eventually, I asked him if the dealership offered a 24 hour test drive. That is to say, would they let me take the SUV home or 24 hours to really drive it where ever I wanted to (within reason), make sure it would fit in my garage, show it to my spouse, and otherwise really examine the car at my leisure (within 24 hours). I told him I was not willing to drop $45K-50K on a car based on a 30 minute test drive.

He said he had to ask his manager. Presumably after checking my zip code (and/or credit score) he said that would be fine (my score is above 800). As it turns out, I never did take the 24 hour test drive but I think this is something any dealership should offer for a car at this price point.

Have any of you ever taken an Audi for a 24 hour test drive? Do you know of an Audi dealer that would assent to this or specifically object to it? I understand there are a few Audi sales people in these forums... I'd really like to hear your feedback on this. Does your dealership allow 24 hour test drives? How would you react if a customer asked for this?

JerrySpaeder

Dont' know about Audi, but the VW dealer in Dallas let me take a Touareg home overnight when they first came out in 2003. I ended up buying one.

BayGBM

That is good to know.

I am frankly surprised that more people do not (know to) ask for a 24 hour test drive. I can understand why dealerships would not volunteer them but it is something any serious buyer should insist on. One can only get so much out of a 30-40 minute test drive and given the cost of some of these vehicles I think a 24 hour drive I a must. At least (as they say in the advertisements) for qualified buyers.

Anyone else?

afretes

Re: A 24 hour test drive?

Rakete

the saleman actually came to my husband's office to do the paperwork...we never gave the car back.

STaSISnRI

or is it sarcasm???

BayGBM

I was being sarcastic. They already had my zip code and address because they make a copy of your license before they let you test drive. I do not think my credit was a factor because they didn't have access to it at that point.

mdwredb7

We usually allow it, with some pre arrangement...No credit check required LOL