How to Get a Courtesy Car: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to get a courtesy car when you have an accident or when your car is undergoing repairs or maintenance? Getting a courtesy car ensures minimal disruption to your daily routine. It provides a convenient temporary solution, allowing you to continue your personal and professional commitments without inconvenience. However, many people are unfamiliar with how they can get a courtesy car, the eligibility requirements, what kind of courtesy car they can get, how much time they can get a courtesy car, what documents are required to get a courtesy car, how much they need to pay to get a courtesy car and other concerning questions.
In this guide, we answer all your questions in detail and provide a step-by-step overview of how to secure a courtesy car, what to expect during the process, and how to improve your chances of approval. Understanding your rights, reviewing your insurance coverage, and communicating effectively with service providers can significantly enhance your chance of receiving a courtesy vehicle. Additionally, knowing terms and conditions—such as usage limits, fuel policies, and insurance responsibilities—can help avoid unexpected costs and obligations.
Following the outlined steps, you can confidently navigate getting a courtesy car while your vehicle is serviced.
What is a Courtesy Car?
A courtesy car (or loaner) is a temporary vehicle provided by repair garages, dealerships, or insurers while your car undergoes repairs. These vehicles are typically economy models, though luxury dealerships may offer premium options. Unlike rental cars, courtesy cars are often free or low cost, but availability hinges on your insurance policy, repair shop partnerships, and regional regulations.
Did You Know?
In the UK, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 mandates that repairers must minimise disruption, often requiring them to offer a courtesy car for warranty work.
Step 1: Check Your Insurance Policy
The first step in securing a courtesy car is determining whether your insurance policy covers it. Not all policies include this benefit; some require purchasing it as an additional feature. Understanding your policy will help you avoid unexpected expenses.
How to Check Your Policy
- Review Your Insurance Documents: Review your policy to see if a courtesy car is included. This information is typically in the 'policy benefits' or 'additional cover' section.
- Log Into Your Insurer's Website: Many insurance providers offer online portals to check your policy details.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider: If unsure, call your insurer and ask directly whether a courtesy car is covered, under what conditions, and for how long.
Pro Tip: When searching your insurer's FAQ page or chatbot, use keyword phrases like "Does [Your Insurer] cover courtesy cars?"
Types of Insurance Cover for Courtesy Cars
- Standard Coverage: Some comprehensive insurance policies automatically include a courtesy car as part of their benefits.
- Optional Add-On: Some insurers require policyholders to purchase a separate add-on to access a courtesy car when their vehicle is being repaired.
3. Third-Party Insurance: If you only have third-party insurance, you are unlikely to be entitled to a courtesy car unless the other party's insurance covers it in an accident where they were at fault.
Common Exclusions:
- Wear-and-tear repairs (e.g., brake pad replacements).
- Claims involving DUIs or uninsured accidents.
Region-Specific Notes:
EU/UK: Courtesy cars are often required for warranty repairs under consumer law.
Step 2: Confirm Eligibility Requirements
Even if your policy includes courtesy car coverage, you must often meet specific conditions. Different insurers and garages have their eligibility criteria.
Common Eligibility Factors
- Type of Damage: Some policies only provide a courtesy car if your vehicle is being repaired due to an accident covered under your insurance policy.
- Approved Garages: Many insurers require you to use their network of authorised repair centres to qualify for a courtesy car.
- Driver's Age and History: Some insurers impose restrictions based on the driver's age and driving history.
- Availability of Courtesy Cars: Courtesy cars are subject to availability, and there may be a waiting list during peak times.
Red Flag: Avoid garages that charge "convenience fees" for courtesy cars—this is often a scam.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Provider or Repair Garage
Once you confirm your eligibility, the next step is to contact your insurer or the garage repairing your car.
Script for Negotiating:
"Hi, I'd like to confirm my courtesy car reservation. Can you clarify the vehicle size, pickup time, and any out-of-pocket costs?"
What to Ask
- When will the courtesy car be available? Some insurers provide a courtesy car immediately, while others may take a few days.
- What type of car will you receive? Most courtesy cars are small or mid-sized economy vehicles. If you need a larger car, check if an upgrade is possible.
- How long can you keep the car? Policies vary, but most provide a courtesy car for your repairs.
4. Are there any additional costs? Some policies fully cover the courtesy car, while others may require you to pay a small daily fee.
Ask These Questions also:
- Is the courtesy car covered under my existing insurance, or do I need a separate policy?
- What happens if repairs take longer than expected?
- Are there restrictions on crossing state/provincial borders?
Step 4: Understand the Terms and Conditions
Before accepting a courtesy car, review the terms and conditions carefully to avoid unexpected charges.
Hidden Costs to Watch For:
Excess Fees: Up to £400 if the courtesy car is damaged.
Fuel Policies: 78% of providers require returning the car with a full tank.
Mileage Caps: Average limit: 100 miles/day (exceeding costs £0.30/mile).
2025 Trend: Some providers now use telematics to track mileage and driving behaviour in courtesy cars.
Step 5: Collecting the Courtesy Car
When picking up the courtesy car, follow these steps to ensure a smooth handover:
- Take Photos: Take timestamped photos of existing damage (interior + exterior).
- Confirm Policy: Confirm insurance coverage via your insurer's app on the spot.
- Test Drive: Test drive the car briefly to note mechanical issues.
- Bring Required Documents: You will typically need your driver's license, insurance details, and sometimes a credit card.
- Familiarise Yourself with the Controls: If you are unfamiliar with the car model, ask for a quick overview.
- Confirm the Return Date and Conditions: Ensure you understand when and where to return the car and any return conditions.
Pro Tip: Ask for a hybrid or electric model to save on fuel costs—35% of UK dealerships now offer EVs as courtesy cars.
Step 6: Using the Courtesy Car Responsibly
- Follow Traffic Laws: Drive safely, as you are responsible for fines or penalties.
- Keep the Car Clean: Many providers require the car returned in good condition.
- Avoid Unauthorised Drivers: Some policies only cover the named driver, so do not let others drive the courtesy car unless approved.
- Return the Car on Time: Delays could incur extra charges or affect your insurance coverage.
Avoid These Mistakes:
- Smoking/vaping (fees up to £200).
- Off-road driving (voids coverage).
- Pet hair/damage (cleaning fees apply).
Case Study: A 2024 UK survey found that 22% of drivers incurred fees for returning cars late or dirty.
Step 7: Returning the Courtesy Car
Once your car is repaired, it's time to return the courtesy car.
Before Returning the Car
- Refill the Fuel Tank: If required, top up the fuel to avoid penalty charges.
- Clean the Car: Ensure the car is in the same condition as when you received it.
- Check for New Damages: Inspect the vehicle for any new dents or scratches and report them if necessary.
- Confirm the Return Process: Follow the instructions given by the garage or insurer for a smooth return.
Post-Repair Checklist:
- Get written confirmation that your original car is ready.
- Compare the loaner's pre- and post-inspection reports.
- Request a receipt showing no outstanding charges.
Warning: 14-day dispute windows are standard for contesting damage claims.
Alternative Ways to Get a Courtesy Car
If you are not eligible for a courtesy car through your insurance or repair garage, consider these options:
- Car Rental Services: Many rental companies offer short-term car hire at affordable rates.
- Borrow from Friends or Family: If you have a trusted friend or family member with a spare car, this could be a cost-effective alternative.
3. Public Transport and Ride-Sharing: Sometimes, using taxis, buses, or ride-sharing services may be more convenient than arranging a temporary car.
FAQs
A: Yes, if you have collision coverage. At-fault claims may require paying your deductible first.
A: Yes—56% of luxury dealers provide premium courtesy cars to customers during warranty repairs.
A: Most insurers extend coverage by 2-3 days automatically. Beyond that, negotiate a rental car subsidy.
Before Returning the Car
- Always compare your insurer's courtesy car terms against your dealership's policy.
- Document everything—photos, emails, inspection reports.
- Consider rental car add-ons if your repairs are complex (e.g., Tesla battery replacements).
Final Stat: Drivers who formally request courtesy cars in writing receive them 63% faster than those who don't (2024 Auto Industry Report).
Marigold Services's Courtesy Car Service:
Marigold Services Ltd offers a reliable courtesy car service across London and the UK. We deliver quick and tension free replacement vehicles to keep you moving.
Call +44 20 8555 0555 or email info@marigold-services.com.
Why Marigold Services?
Customers choose Marigold Services Ltd. because they deliver reliable, hassle‐free courtesy car services across London and the UK. Established in 2013, they offer a diverse fleet—from economy and luxury to eco-friendly EVs—and a 24/7 support team dedicated to quickly getting you back on the road. Their commitment to exceptional service is reflected in a 4.7-star rating on TripAdvisor from 47 reviews, proving that prompt response, professional expertise, and customer satisfaction are at the heart of everything they do.
Final Thoughts
Getting a courtesy car can significantly reduce the inconvenience of being without a vehicle while yours is being repaired. You can easily secure a courtesy car by checking your insurance policy, understanding eligibility requirements, and following the proper procedures. Always read the terms carefully, use the vehicle responsibly, and return it in good condition to avoid extra charges. Proper planning lets you stay on the road and continue your daily routine without major disruptions.