Understanding the Loaner Car Process and How to Communicate with Your Dealer

It is quite understandable that if there is an urgent need for you to repair your car, you would not want to be left without another one. Quite a few of the dealers lend their customers, a loaner car until their vehicle is being serviced. However, if you know nothing about something, such as the loaner car process, it can be confusing for you. This involves a lot of moving parts such as When can I take a loaner car from the dealership and what if the loaner car gets damaged in my possession. There is no need to fret, we have put together this guide to shed some light on these questions, and hopefully, eliminate any stress and uncertainty.

What Are The Different Meaning Of Loaner Cars

In layman’s terms, loaner cars can be defined as vehicles that are owned by the dealer and used by the customers while their vehicles are being repaired. It can be of great help since it allows you to go about your daily activities without any major disruptions.

There are a number of dealerships which do not have a loaner car program, and even for the ones which do, the programs might exist in a limited capacity depending on the geographical area and the service type being provided. As a result, it is always important to reach out to your officials for proper information about the loaner program that they offer.

In most cases, the loaner cars given are still in the same brand and model as your car, this ensures that the customer does not have to adapt to many changes for their driving experience. However, one must be clear on the terms of the loan in the said case.

Do I have an option to get a loaner car from a dealership or is it a rare thing? 

Most dealerships including the ones associated with some manufacturers have loaner cars. This is mostly the case for customers who need to leave their cars for extensive repairs that also may be covered by a warranty. This practice makes it easy for you so that you do not have to be stationary while waiting for your car. 

Though, there are dealerships that do not provide their customers with loaner cars. Some smaller businesses may only have a few or even none to provide. As this can be important for the customer, it is advisable to first check its availability when making an appointment. 

If it’s the provisions of a dealership that loaner cars are given out, make sure to inquire whether they will be available during busy periods. This will help you understand their operation and plan your day accordingly so that you are not caught off guard by some last minute surprises. 

What are the requirements needed to receive a loaner car from a dealership. 

In order to get a loaner from your dealership, there are certain requirements that need to be adhered to. To begin with, make sure that your vehicle is done under warranty or is currently getting serviced for any issues that are related to the manufacturer’s vehicle parts. Most priority is given to the customers who need maintenance for their vehicles when they are taken to the dealership. 

There is another important step that is booking an appointment with the service center. Also you should call ahead of time to make sure that there are any loaners available at the same time that you will be there. Some dealers have a smaller supply because of high need.

You will have to show your ID and insurance documents. This step helps promote accountability in using their automobile. Having these documents ready can make it more efficient and convenient for you and the dealership employees.

Loaner cars potential charges

You should always be aware of the potential charges when using a dealership loaner car. Some auto dealers have free loaners during service visits, others such as in cases of new staff members might charge you.

Also there could be charges in the form of a daily rental for the vehicle in case the repairs on your car take longer than expected. Furthermore, there could be fees that are incurred as a result of exceeding a set mileage limit or from using up a particular amount of petrol. To avoid disputes, be sure to read all the terms and conditions of the contract before signing it. 

Also, it would be appropriate to ask about insurance and liability of an accident when using the loaner car. Knowing these details can help you in avoiding undue expenses while your car is undergoing repairs.

Obtaining an auto loaner from your dealer is quite simple and easy if you understand the processes involved. The first thing you should do is to check whether your car qualifies for the maintenance or warranty repairs loaner. A lot of dealers provided this service but it depends on the dealer and the situation.

Call ahead to book a replacement car as soon as you check and confirm your eligibility. Have information about your appointment as well as requirements that you may have. There are instances when garages may have limited numbers available so contacting them in advance helps you obtain what you require.Dealerships may have a more liberal policy regarding replacement vehicles or may have more of them in stock than your local one, so if you find the need for one during busy periods, try other dealerships near you.First, define what you need clearly.’

If you are looking to use a loaner vehicle through a dealership, begin by reaching out to them long before your service time. Keep in mind to ask them whether and what procedure is followed to loan out spare cars. Doing this helps you to look proactive which is a good thing.

Provide a reason for which you require the vehicle when making the loan request. Customers who have work or errands whilst their main transportation is being serviced are more likely to get help from dealerships as they would explain the need for the vehicle.Depending on who you are, this could be having a warranty in effect or simply being a good customer. Knowing this might be the difference between getting that loaner or not.

Steps to take in case the dealership does not provide a loaner car 

In case your local dealership states that it cannot offer you a loaner car, don’t stress out. First, determine whether you were misinformed regarding their rules on providing loaner cars. In some cases, such issues might be a result of miscommunication.

Then, you might want to try and explain your case to a manager. People in an organization who hold a managerial position might have powers to overlook or make exceptions from set rules.

In the end, check out other possibilities such as rental firms within the area. Most of the time when servicing their vehicles to customers, dealers cooperate with surrounding renting services and may provide a discount to customers who need temporary transportation so that they don’t have to be stranded without a car while the repairs are going on. 

Handling Damages 

Also, in case you cause damages to the loaner vehicle, make sure that you report it to the dealer immediately. Remember, honesty is the best policy in such cases. It is quite possible that they may have set policies in place for those who cause damage or accidents. 

Before making use of the vehicles provided to you by the dealer, expect to sign an agreement the purpose of which is to set your responsibilities in using their vehicles. Or that you may be responsible for any damages caused during the time the car is in your possession in use. Always make it a point to go through the document carefully before signing it and obtaining a loaner.

Here is everything you need to know regarding damage to a dealership car and your insurance. Always remember to read your rental car agreement. 

How much is your insurance deductible? 

A loaner car is a rented vehicle provided to an automobile’s owner by insurance policy or its manufacturer. These cars are usually given to customers when their own car is in the maintenance process. Loaner cars can carry a risk as many people can end up damaging them out of negligence. While loaner cars are often insured, it is still recommended that they be treated with care. What are your options in this regard? 

1) Your rental car agreement plays a huge role here. As soon as you get into one, you should try understanding the terms and conditions of usage before signing any rental car agreements. If your credit card company or personal insurance company can potentially cover the cost of loaners or rental cars, make sure to check that. It’s always better to minimize your losses.  

2) If you happen to scratch or dent the loaner car slightly, chances are that little damage can be overlooked; however, in the event that significant harm is done, it can complicate matters as a lot of paperwork is required in that case. 

In most instances insurance can cover the damage caused.  

For someone who requires a quick fix, filling out an incident report and getting in touch with the insurance company can usually do the job, post which insurance can start reviewing. When it comes to paying a deductible amount or for the repairs, it really depends on the dealership and the policy so it is always better to go through the leasing agreement.  

At times it’s the dealership who ends up insuring the loaned car so it is important to understand your obligations carrying in this regard, as it helps in countering unexpected repair expenses.

Your insurance agent must explain to you what happens in case of damage to a loaner car. Some car dealers prefer that you have full coverage insurance or that you sign a document in which you guarantee that you will make any required repair as a result of negligence.

If an accident occurs and you’ve been substantiated to be responsible for it, you will need to cover all the repair charges if you haven’t taken any coverage on your insurance. It is best to check your own auto insurance policy first, so there are no shocks afterwards.

These factors will help you to ensure a sense of security while driving a loaner car, hired for your use from the dealership. As a rule, involve your dealer in a conversation that will explain to you what your common expectations are at the very beginning.