Friendships are built on trust—but would you trust your best friend with your car? We asked our Instagram followers this very question and the responses were eye-opening. While many were happy to hand over their keys in the spirit of yaari dosti, others weren’t quite as sure. Here’s what we found—and the crucial checklist of things to consider before saying yes.

A poll asked: "Would you lend your car to your best friend?" Here’s how the votes stacked up: 46% said yes, they would; 32% said no; and 22% were not sure. So while nearly half of respondents said they’re open to lending their car, it's clear that hesitation remains strong. And with good reason—lending your vehicle involves far more than just trust.

Before you lend your car to a friend, consider these eight things:

  • Insurance Policy: Your friend becomes a "permissive driver" under your insurance. While most policies cover this, age and licence status may affect the terms. If they use your car regularly, consider adding them to your policy.
  • Driver’s Licence Validity: Make sure their driving licence is valid. According to India’s Motor Vehicle Act, allowing someone with an invalid licence to drive your car could result in fines, legal issues, and rejected insurance claims.
  • Discuss Responsibility Clearly: Talk about accident liability, speeding tickets, and damages beforehand. This helps avoid awkward conversations or disputes later.
  • Define the Car’s Use & Return Time: Ask where they’re taking the car and set expectations—like avoiding high-speed highways, off-roading, or messy food.
  • Document the Current Condition: Take photos of your car from all angles. This protects you both in case of post-use damage disagreements.
  • Keep All Important Documents in the Car: Ensure your insurance papers, PUC, RC, and emergency numbers are in the glove box. These are essential if your friend gets pulled over or faces a breakdown.
  • Fuel & Cleanliness Rules: Decide upfront: Will they refill the tank? Clean the car before returning it? Address this early to avoid friction.
  • Understand the Legal Risk: Your car is registered in your name—so you are legally responsible for what happens while it’s in use. Choose wisely.
  • Not comfortable lending your car? You’re not alone. Here are a few polite ways to decline:
  • Blame the family: “My dad needs it today,” or a cheeky “Abba nahin manenge.” Say the car needs service: “It’s acting up lately—due for maintenance.” Cite a rule: “We have a no-sharing policy in the house after a past incident.”

The goal is to preserve the friendship without putting yourself or your car at risk.

Whether you’re in the 46% who are happy to lend your car or the 32% who hesitate, remember: handing over your vehicle is about more than friendship—it’s about responsibility. So, next time a friend asks, think it through. Would you hand over your keys… or hold on tight?