Here it is.
Pull up Marketplace cars you're considering and copy the following scripts into Messenger, today. Replace the words in brackets with the applicable phrases. Start with the opener, then use whichever follow-up fits the seller’s response.
You won’t send every message in every conversation. This is a flexible path from first contact to a confirmed test drive.
Start here: First contact
Hi [seller name], I’m interested in the [year/make/model]. I read the entire listing, and I’m a serious local buyer and ready to purchase if everything checks out.
Would [day/time A] or [day/time B] work for a quick test drive?
After the reply: Confirm important details
Great. Let’s pencil in [day/time] in [seller’s town].
Before I make the trip, could you confirm a few basics?
- Is the title clean and in your name?
- Is the mileage shown in the listing current?
- Are there any warning lights, leaks, overheating, or major mechanical problems?
- Has it been in any accidents or had major body repairs that you know of?
- What’s the next issue you’d expect to address if you kept it?
- Could you send me the VIN so I can check the basic history before making the trip?
You can respond here or, if you would rather not type everything out I can call between [time A] and [time B] today to chat.
End call by confirming meetup day/time and suggesting a safe public location such as a police station.
Confirmation A: Lock in the test drive
Thanks. Let’s meet at [safe public location] at [day/time].
I’ll message you at [confirmation time] before I leave.
Confirmation B: If you had a phone call
Use this version instead of “Confirmation A” if you discussed the car by phone.
Thanks for speaking with me. I’m looking forward to seeing the [year/make/model] at [safe public location] on [day/time].
I’ll message you at [confirmation time] before I leave so neither of us wastes a trip.
If the seller stops replying
Still interested in the [year/make/model]. I can meet [day/time] and am motivated to purchase if everything checks out.
If it has sold, no worries. Just let me know.
Morning of the test drive
Good morning. Are we still on for [time] at [location] today?
If so, I’ll message you again before I leave with my updated arrival time.
When you leave:
Leaving now. I should arrive around [time]. See you at [location].
Reliable daily—or complete money pit?
The listing can’t answer that question. The seller probably won’t answer it for you. And a quick lap around the block won’t tell you much unless you know what to look for, listen for, and feel for.
Before the test drive, get an expert in your corner. The 3-Week Buyer Sprint includes three private calls with an automotive expert and a printable vehicle-inspection checklist, so you can arrive with a plan instead of hopes and prayers. Prepare Me For the Inspection.