How To Get a Loaner Car From Dealership

Is your car being repaired? Then you do not have to keep waiting. Do you really need a car to go places in the meantime, in that case, you can think of getting a loaner car. This will be given by the dealership itself to you. But many people do not know how to get such a car. So we are giving you an easy guide for this very process.

Also Read: How To Trade In Your Financed Car

We will also tell you about some useful alternatives if you find that you are not able to get a loaner car.

Some things to know

• The easiest way for you to get a loaner car is to talk to the dealership people. Ask a service representative at the dealership whether you qualify for a loaner car.
• Check your car insurance policy. See if it is covering a loaner car or will reimburse you for the cost of a rental.

Do dealerships really give out loaner cars?

Dealerships often give out loaner cars for extended repairs or recalls. They may be given to you if you have to wait for a long time till your car is repaired. This will make up for your travels during the time of repair. Most of the recall repairs only take a few hours. But if they take longer, your dealership may offer loaner cars. Many big manufacturers offer loaner cars as a complementary service.

How to get a loaner car

There are a few steps and factors to consider when thinking of getting a loaner car.

• Check if your insurance policy covers a loaner car. Many insurance policies have a loaner car included in the coverage. Check your policy, or you can get on a call with a representative to discuss the issue. Sometimes, your insurance may need you to get a loaner from an approved dealership or garage. So it is helpful if you know which dealerships are qualifying before you take your car in for service at one.
• Ask a representative at the dealership for a loaner car. Courtesy car policies can vary from one place to another. So you should always talk to the staff there. As long as you can show a valid driver’s license, many dealerships will offer you complimentary services of loaner cars. You will also have to show them proof of your insurance. Your car’s warranty may also have a courtesy car covered in case repairs are needed.
• Be persistent with the dealership. Some places may refuse to offer a courtesy car in the beginning. In this case, you can keep asking or telling them about the particular complaints you may have. You should also carefully check the details of your warranty or insurance policy. If there is something beneficial in those documents you can use them in your dealings.
• If talking to a representative does not do the job, you can also talk to the manager or owner of the dealership. These staff members normally will have a greater interest in keeping your business. So they may be more willing to help you.
• Fulfill the needful procedures and sign the papers. To get a loaner car, you have to be of age. You should have an active car insurance. You will need a driver’s license or passport to prove your identity. Then your dealership may give you a loaner car. In such a case, you have to carefully read the paperwork given to you by the dealership. Then take note of everything mentioned. Ask all the questions that pop up in your mind – when you need to return it, if you need to refill the fuel in the car, who is authorized to drive the car, and so on.
• Return the car on time. Loaner cars are only given to you for a fixed time period. Dealerships will only let you drive the loaner car until your own car is fully repaired. Sometimes the time span may be even shorter. Before you start making your plans with the loaner car, make sure you ask the dealership how long you can keep it. Make sure you return the car at exactly the time agreed.

Things that make you qualify for a loaner car

• A lot of insurance plans include the cost of a courtesy car. This is for the time when your own car is getting repaired. Take a look at your insurance plan to check this. You can also speak with a representative to know if you have that benefit.
• Often, you must be 21 years old to have a loaner car. But this depends on the location you are in. Some dealerships may even need you to be 25 years old or more. Ask the dealership about particular age requirements.
• You will need a valid driver’s license, credit card, and insurance proof.

Do dealerships charge money for loaner cars?

Most dealerships will offer loaner cars free of charge. If the loaner car is available, a dealership will normally lend you a car for free. But if that is not the case, your insurance company may give you a free loaner car from a third party.

But some dealerships may take a charge for gas. Read the terms and paperwork related to the loaner car to know exactly how much the particular place may be charging.
If you cause damage to the loaner car like scratches, pet damage, or smoking inside it, they may charge a price. If you do not return the loaner car on time, this can incur extra charges.

Some alternatives if your dealership does not offer loaner cars

• Reserve a rental car
• Get a hire car
• Ride in a taxi or other on-demand car service
• Ask a friend or relative to drive you or lend you their car.

These solutions may be a little more costly or tedious, especially if your car needs to be repaired for a long. It is best to have all options prepared in case you are unable to get a loaner car.