Understanding the ins and outs of getting a loaner can save you time, aggravation and money. If you’re having your vehicle serviced, dealing with an accident or just using a temporary ride, picking the right is important. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through ten tips to ensure you get the right vehicle for you. Another practical advice to help you get a smooth and hassle-free experience.
What Is a Loaner Car?
Loaner in the sense of borrower — is a temporary vehicle offered by a dealership, rental agency or auto repair shop when your own car is in for a service or an auto repair. While the excuse can serve a similar function, you need to keep in mind that a loaner car isn’t the same thing as a rental car. Loaner cars are usually free, when your car is still under warranty or covered by a service agreement, whereas rental cars come with a charge.
Read the Loaner Car Terms and Conditions
As always, review all terms and conditions carefully before accepting the loaner & car. Most dealerships or repair shops will have rules about mileage limits, insurance coverage, and how long a loaner, car is available.
Key points to check:
- Insurance coverage
- Mileage limits
- Rental fees (if any)
- Duration of the loan period
- Considering the agreement means you won’t face any surprise fees or limitations.
- Confirm Vehicle Insurance
Always verify that your own insurance covers the loaner vehicle. In general, your existing car insurance will cover a loaner, but it’s best to check. If not, inquire with the dealership or repair shop about adding temporary insurance to cover the loaner vehicle.
Insurance options:
- Your personal auto insurance
- Dealership-provided coverage
- Credit card rental coverage
- Think about the Size and Type of Vehicle
Consider your own needs when choosing a loaner vehicle. Do you want something small and efficient or a bigger SUV for family transit? The purpose for which you need a rental car should dictate the type of vehicle you are borrowing. Just be sure to make the right choice based on your driving style, rider count, and cargo volume.
Popular loaner car types:
- Sedans for daily commutes
- SUVs for families or trips
- Trucks for transporting heavy goods
- Ask About Vehicle Maintenance and How Old It Is
Make sure it’s properly maintained and in good working order. Older or high-mileage loaner cars may also lead to performance problems. A reputable dealership or auto repair facility should deliver a vehicle that is properly serviced and road-ready.
Questions: Top maintenance questions to ask
- Recent service history
- Vehicle age and mileage
- Any known issues or recalls
- Ensure Cleanliness and Comfort
Getting a clean and comfortable vehicle should be part of receiving a loaner car. This is a short-term solution, but you still deserve a car that is nice to drive. Make sure it’s clean on the inside and the outside, air conditioning works, the radio plays and you can sit comfortably.
Comfort features to check:
- Air conditioning/heating
- Seat adjustment options
- No bad smells, clean interior
- Know the Cost of the Loaner Vehicle
Some dealerships or repair shops provide free loaner cars to guests, but others may charge a fee. Ask about all the costs for the loaner car up front, so you won’t be surprised later.
Cost considerations:
- Free loaner vs. rental fee
- Any incidental fees (such as fuel charges)
- Charge for the lengthening of the loan
- Check the Fuel Level and Mileage
When picking up the loaner car, check the fuel level and note the current mileage. Loaner cars may have a full tank of gas or not. Know how much gas you need to bring the car back with, what the mileage restrictions are, if any.
Things to check:
- Current fuel level
- Mileage documentation
- Gas tank refill requirement
- Look for Convenience Features
Search for those convenience features that will make your driving experience more enjoyable when choosing a loaner car. The cliché of the cars we drive today. If these features matter to you, inquire if the loaner car will include them.
Convenience features to consider:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- GPS navigation
- Backup camera
- USB charging ports
- Test Drive the Loaner Car
Always give the loaner car a brief test drive before you drive away. Even if you’re in a hurry, a shorter test drive will let you get a sense of the car’s handling, comfort and general driving experience. Make sure everything feels right, and pay attention to any strange sounds or anything off about the car’s performance.
What to look for during the test drive:
- Smoothness of acceleration
- Braking responsiveness
- Heated seats and steering wheel.
- Return the Loaner Car on Time
Honor the agreed due date for the loaner car. If you need to extend the period, be sure to ask for the extra time in advance, as loaner cars are typically in demand. Returning the vehicle on time can help maintain a positive relationship with the dealership or repair shop.
Tips for timely return:
- Notify if you’ll be late
- Gas up (if needed)
Conclusion:
Take Care While Choosing a Loaner Car
Selecting the right loaner car can greatly improve the experience. Remembering these ten tips will help you prepare to choose the perfect vehicle for your needs. Be it a loaner car during a service appointment or a rental after a collision, abiding by these tips will ensure you leave the lot satisfied.
