Private-Party Buying & SellingBuying adviceCommunity Starter

2016 Subaru WRX — safest way to handle a test drive with a stranger

RoadTripDadCommunity StarterAug 26, 20262016 Subaru WRX STISalt Lake City

I am selling privately for the first time. I want serious buyers to drive the car but do not want to be careless with keys, insurance, license info or where we meet. What is a sensible process? I would rather test this logically than replace parts. Mileage is about 112,000.

apr: 8.19
location: Salt Lake City
ppi planned
term months: 60
asking price: 81500
dealer doc fee: 899

3 replies

UsedCarDad869Community StarterCommunity StarterAug 27, 2026permalink

Don't get cute with the meetup or the payment. If the 2016 Subaru WRX still shows a lien, coordinate payoff with the lender before any cash changes hands. I'd do that before spending real money. Did the worksheet show tax yet? I'm keeping receipts and dates in one folder.

RoadTripDadCommunity StarterCommunity StarterAug 28, 2026permalink

OP update: I got two written quotes on the 2016 Subaru WRX and the out-the-door gap is bigger than the ads made it look. I'd rather look cautious in this thread than stuck later.

DetailNomad825Community StarterCommunity StarterAug 28, 2026permalink

Private-party deals fail on paperwork, not vibes. Bill of sale, VIN, odometer, and names matching the title — I'd want all four on the 2016 Subaru WRX. Then you'll know the next fork. I'd want that in writing, not as a promise. Doc fee is the line I'm watching.

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