Before you pay for a seat

Most arrive-and-drive teams are run by people who love the sport. A few are not. These steps protect you either way.

Check the team

• Read reviews here and search the series forums and Facebook groups for the team name.
• Confirm the team and car are actually entered in the event. Most series publish entry lists.
• Ask for references from drivers who rented this season, and call them.

Get it in writing

• Total price, and exactly what it includes: entry, fuel, tires, crew, test day, coaching, meals, lodging.
• Guaranteed seat time or number of stints, and how stints are split between drivers.
• What happens if the car breaks, fails tech, or the event is cancelled. Do you get a refund or credit?
• Crash-damage responsibility: who pays, the maximum, and whether insurance is available.
• The deposit, when the balance is due, and the cancellation deadline.

Pay safely

• Use a credit card or a payment method with buyer protection. Avoid cash, wire transfers or "friends & family" payments for large amounts.
• Get an invoice or receipt with the team's legal business name.
• Be wary of pressure to pay the full amount far in advance, or a price well below everyone else's.

If something goes wrong

• Keep every message, invoice and receipt.
• Ask the team in writing for the refund or remedy you're owed.
• Tell the series organizer. They can't settle private disputes, but repeat reports matter to them.
• If you paid by card, you may be able to dispute the charge.
• Leave a review so the next driver knows.