Yes, you can often obtain a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop, but eligibility depends on your insurance coverage, credit card benefits, and the shop’s loaner programs. This article explains how to qualify, what limits may apply, and practical steps to take.
Paths to a rental car
The ability to drive a rental while your car is being repaired typically comes from one or more of the following sources. The options and details vary by policy, card, and shop, so it’s important to verify specifics with the provider before assuming coverage.
- Auto insurance rental reimbursement coverage: Many auto policies offer a daily rental allowance and a total cap when your car is in the shop due to a covered claim or certain mechanical issues. Typical limits range from roughly $25–$50 per day, with a maximum of 30 days or so, though exact figures vary by insurer and policy.
- Credit card rental car benefits: Some credit cards provide rental coverage when you pay for the rental with that card. Coverage can be primary or secondary, and limits, eligible vehicle types, and geographic scope vary by card program.
- Dealership loaner cars: Many new-car or certified-preowned dealerships offer free or reduced-cost loaner vehicles for repairs performed under warranty or for certain service appointments.
- Shop courtesy cars or shuttle service: Independent repair shops or service centers may provide courtesy cars or arrange shuttle rides to help you get around while your car is in the shop.
- Roadside assistance programs: Memberships or plans (including some auto clubs) may coordinate or contribute toward rental options during a vehicle repair window.
Before relying on a rental, confirm with your insurer, card issuer, and the repair shop which option applies, what limits exist, and any deposits or eligibility requirements.
What to check before you rely on a rental
Understanding coverage details can prevent surprised costs. Key items to verify include the trigger for coverage (what caused the car to be in the shop), the allowed rental class (economy, mid-size, etc.), duration limits, geographic restrictions, and who pays for fuel, mileage, or damage to the rental itself. It’s also important to note any deductibles on the auto policy or card program and whether the rental must be arranged through a specified network.
Steps to arrange a rental
To streamline the process, follow these steps:
- Contact your insurer and the shop to confirm whether a rental is covered and what limits apply.
- If approved, decide whether to rent through the insurer’s preferred network, your credit card’s rental network, or the dealership’s loaner program.
- Provide required information (policy number, driver’s license, reservation details) and obtain authorization for the rental.
- Inspect the rental for preexisting damage, document it, and keep all receipts and documentation for the claim.
- Return the rental promptly once your car is ready to avoid extra charges or penalties.
If coverage is not available or limits are insufficient, discuss alternatives with the shop or your insurer, such as reducing rental duration or exploring ridesharing options.
Limitations and caveats
Rental coverage is not universal. Some policies exclude certain vehicle types (luxury, specialty, or larger SUVs), exclude damage to the rental, or require coverage only when the repair is due to a covered loss. Credit card benefits can be secondary to your own auto insurance, and their terms may exclude international rentals or require a minimum rental period. Always read the fine print and confirm details before booking.
Summary
In many cases, a rental car is available while your vehicle is in the shop, but it depends on a combination of insurance coverage, card benefits, and dealership or shop programs. Check with your insurer, card issuer, and the service provider to understand limits, eligibility, and processes, and keep receipts and documentation in case you need to file a claim. If none of these options apply, you may need to cover the cost yourself or explore alternatives such as ridesharing or public transit until your car is ready.
Does insurance give you a rental if your car is in the shop?
Rental reimbursement coverage helps you pay for transportation expenses, such as a rental car or public transportation fare, while your own vehicle is being repaired after a covered insurance claim. It does not apply if your vehicle needs routine maintenance work or if you need to rent a car on vacation.
How can I get a rental car while my car is in the shop?
Often, the simplest way to get you into a rental car is to get a rental through your own insurance policy, if you have rental coverage. Alternatively, you may pay out-of-pocket for your rental then seek reimbursement from the other insurance company once it completes its investigation.
What is the $3000 rule for cars?
The $3000 rule is a budgeting strategy that suggests: If you cannot afford to pay at least $3,000 upfront for a vehicle, you may not be financially ready to cover the full cost of car ownership. In most cases, the rule applies in one of two ways: As a minimum budget for buying a reliable used car with cash.
Can I get a hire car if my car is in the garage?
Or, if your car's stuck in the garage for repairs, you can get a hire car for up to 3 days to help you stay mobile (age and licence restrictions apply). You can also upgrade to a like-for-like hire car for up to 7 days with Onward Travel Premium.