How To Get a Loaner Car from a Dealership

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Geoff Cudd

Geoff Cudd

I am a serial entrepreneur and a consumer advocate. When I’m not helping car buyers, I love working on ventures that have a positive impact.

I run a cause marketing agency and serve on the board of Vayu Global Health where we are disrupting the medical industry and preventing the needless deaths of mothers and babies during childbirth.

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Getting a loaner car from a dealership is an easy and cost-effective way to access a car when you are having work done on your vehicle.

Knowing the process and what you need to do to get a loaner car from a dealership is important for making your life easier.

Let’s look at everything you need to know about how to get a loaner car from a dealership.

What Is a Loaner Car from a Dealership?

A loaner car from a dealership is a vehicle that a dealership lends to customers for free or a nominal fee.

Typically, these cars are used for short-term needs, such as when a customer's car is being serviced or repaired, when a customer needs a car for a short-term business trip, or when a customer is in between cars or needs temporary transportation.

Loaner cars from dealerships are usually newer models and are in excellent condition. They are usually well-maintained and inspected regularly.

Most dealerships offer loaner cars for free for customers who are having their vehicles serviced or repaired at their facilities.

The loaner car is typically provided for the time it takes to complete the service or repair.

In some cases, dealerships may also offer loaner cars for customers who are in between cars or need temporary transportation.

In these cases, the dealership may require a fee or a deposit to be paid to obtain the loaner car.

The fees and deposits vary depending on the dealership and the length of time the loaner car is needed.

Requirements for Getting a Loaner Car from a Dealership

To get a loaner car from a dealership, certain requirements must be met.

The requirements may vary depending on the dealership, so it's important to check with the dealership for specific requirements. Generally, the following requirements must be met:

1. The customer must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license.
2. The customer must have a valid credit or debit card for a security deposit. The deposit amount varies depending on the dealership and when the loaner car is needed.
3. The customer must have proof of full coverage insurance.
4. The customer must have a valid email address to receive confirmation of the loaner car.
5. The customer must sign a loaner car agreement form.

Once the requirements are met and the customer has signed the loaner car agreement form, the dealership will provide the customer with a loaner car.

Benefits of Getting a Loaner Car from a Dealership

Getting a loaner car from a dealership offers a variety of benefits. Here are a few of the benefits you can enjoy when getting a loaner car from a dealership:

1. Convenience

Loaner cars from a dealership are convenient because they are available when you need them.

Most dealerships offer loaner cars for free when you are having your car serviced or repaired, and they are also available for rental when you need a car for a short-term business trip or when you are in between cars.

2. Cost Savings

Loaner cars from dealerships are usually free or have a nominal fee, which is much cheaper than renting or buying a car.

3. Safety

Loaner cars from dealerships are usually newer models and are well-maintained and inspected regularly, so you can be sure of getting a safe and reliable car.

4. Variety

Dealerships typically have a wide variety of cars available for loaner cars, so you can choose the most suitable for your needs.

How To Get a Loaner Car from Dealership

When getting a loaner car from a dealership, it's important to research and get the best deal possible. Here are several tips to ensure you get the best deal on a loaner car:

1. Shop Around

Don’t settle for the first loaner car you see. Shop around and compare prices and features to get the best deal.

2. Ask About Discounts

Ask the dealership if they offer any discounts for loaner cars. Some dealerships may offer discounts for customers who are having their cars serviced or repaired or for customers who are in between cars and need temporary transportation.

3. Know Your Rights

It's important to understand your rights as a customer and ensure the dealership provides you with a fair deal. Be sure to read the loaner car agreement form carefully and note all the details.

4. Negotiate

Be bold and negotiate with the dealership when getting a loaner car. You can always get a good deal if you are willing to negotiate.

5. Read Reviews

Before getting a loaner car from a dealership, read online reviews to ensure the dealership has a good reputation. This will help you make an informed decision and get the best deal.

Questions To Ask When Getting a Loaner Car

When getting a loaner car from a dealership, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure you get the best deal. Here are questions to consider asking when getting a loaner car:

1. What is the length of the loaner car agreement?

The length of the loaner car agreement varies depending on the dealership, so it’s important to ask about the specific terms before signing the agreement.

2. Are there any fees or deposits associated with the loaner car?

Most dealerships require a deposit or fee to obtain a loaner car. The fees and deposits vary depending on the dealership and the length of time the loaner car is needed.

3. What type of car is being offered as a loaner car?

Most dealerships offer newer models as loaner cars. The type of car being offered will depend on the dealership and the availability of the cars.

4. What is the condition of the loaner car?

Loaner cars from dealerships are usually in excellent condition and are well-maintained and regularly inspected.

5. Does the loaner car come with any additional features or amenities?

The loaner car may come with additional features and amenities depending on the dealership and the car.

It’s important to ask about these features and amenities before signing the loaner car agreement.

6. What kind of insurance coverage is required for the loaner car?

Most dealerships require proof of full coverage insurance when getting a loaner car. It’s important to check with the dealership for specific insurance requirements.

7. Are there any restrictions on the use of the loaner car?

Some dealerships may have restrictions on the use of the loaner car, such as no smoking or no pets. It’s important to ask about any restrictions before signing the loaner car agreement.

8. Is there a limit to the number of miles you can drive in the loaner car?

Most dealerships have a limit to the number of miles you can drive in the loaner car. It's important to ask about the mileage limit before signing the loaner car agreement.

9. What is the policy for returning the loaner car?

It’s important to understand the policy for returning the loaner car before signing the agreement.

The policy may include a late fee or other penalties for returning the loaner car late.

10. Is roadside assistance included with the loaner car?

Some dealerships may include roadside assistance with the loaner car, so it’s important to ask about this before signing the agreement.

Common Misconceptions about Loaner Cars

Regarding loaner cars from dealerships, there are a few common misconceptions that can lead to confusion and frustration.

Here are a few misconceptions to be aware of when getting a loaner car from a dealership:

1. Loaner cars are unreliable.

This is not true. Loaner cars from dealerships are usually newer models and are in excellent condition.

They are well-maintained and inspected regularly, so you can rest assured you are getting a safe and reliable car.

2. Loaner cars are only available when a car is being serviced or repaired.

This is true. Loaner cars are usually provided when a car is being serviced or repaired.

They are also available for rental when you need a car for a short-term business trip or in between cars and need temporary transportation.

3. Loaner cars are expensive.

This is not true. Loaner cars from dealerships are usually free or have a nominal fee, which is much cheaper than renting or buying a car.

4. Loaner cars come with a lot of restrictions.

While some dealerships may have restrictions on the use of the loaner car, such as no smoking or no pets, most dealerships do not have many restrictions, and customers are free to use the loaner car as they please.

Being aware of these common misconceptions can avoid confusion and frustration when getting a loaner car from a dealership.

Alternatives to Loaner Cars from a Dealership

If you are looking for a temporary car solution and a loaner car from a dealership isn’t an option, there are other alternatives you can consider. Here are a few alternatives to loaner cars from a dealership:

1. Car Rental

Car rental is a great alternative to loaner cars from a dealership. There are a variety of car rental companies that offer short-term and long-term car rental options.

Car rental is usually more expensive than getting a loaner car from a dealership.

Still, it can be a good option if you need a car for a short-term business trip or are in between cars and need temporary transportation.

2. Car Sharing

Car-sharing services such as Turo and Zipcar allow you to rent cars for short-term use.

These services are usually cheaper than car rental companies, but the selection of cars is limited.

3. Ride Sharing

Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are a great alternative to loaner cars from a dealership.

These services are usually cheaper than car rental companies, and they are convenient as you can request a ride with just a few clicks.

Considering these alternatives, you can find the best solution for your temporary car needs.

Conclusion

Obtaining a loaner car from a dealership can significantly ease your transportation challenges when your vehicle is under maintenance or repair.

It's essential to understand the dealership's specific requirements, which typically include being of legal driving age, holding a valid driver's license, possessing a credit or debit card for a security deposit, and having full coverage insurance.

The advantages of opting for a dealership loaner include convenience, cost-effectiveness, safety, and a selection of well-maintained, newer-model vehicles.

To ensure you secure the best deal, it's advisable to shop around, inquire about any available discounts, understand your rights, and read reviews about the dealership.

Also, be prepared to ask pertinent questions regarding the loaner car agreement, insurance coverage, and any potential usage restrictions.

If a dealership loaner isn't suitable for your situation, alternatives like car rental, car sharing, or ride-sharing services could provide viable solutions.

By being informed and proactive, you can navigate the process of acquiring a loaner car from a dealership smoothly, ensuring you stay mobile while your car is being serviced.