Weirdest things car buyers bring to test drives

A 12-foot snake, a mattress and a pair of parrots are among the strangest things potential car buyers have brought to a test drive, according to new research by online used car platform, CarGurus.

Thousands of used car dealers in the CarGurus’ UK network were surveyed to find out the most unusual items that customers have turned up to a test drive with over the last 12 months.

Dealers revealed that many people bring their pets – including fish, cats, a Great Dane in a child’s car seat, snakes and even a horse – several even reported customers bringing the ashes of dead relatives with them for the ride.

But extended family members are not the only unusual items brought along to a test drive. Musicians often bring their instruments – such as a double bass, cello, drum kit and even an accordion – to check they will fit in the vehicle. One customer even brought slippers with them because they said they could only drive in them.

Top 10 most bizarre things buyers brought to test drive

1. A ‘lucky’ egg
2. A horse
3. A rifle
4. A 12-foot pet snake
5. An accordion
6. Two parrots
7. A mattress
8. The ashes of a deceased relative
9. Slippers
10. A truncheon

“These examples might be at the extremes of what car buyers have brought along on test drives, but they do highlight the importance of making sure a potential purchase is fit for purpose,” said Chris Knapman, Editor of CarGurus.

“After all, it’d be a shame to get your new car home only to discover your beloved 12-foot pet snake didn’t fit in the boot!

“Even for those with more conventional requirements we’d still encourage taking along items to ensure a car fits your needs, whether it’s child seats, a baby buggy, golf clubs or anything else you plan to carry on a regular basis.”