Purchasing a Rental

Okay, hear me out for a minute here, as I’m sitting at the tire store with 3 vehicles on the same
maintenance schedule (we all have our vices) I know some of you might be in the market for a
new car — well, new to you, that is.

Perhaps you are searching for a vehicle that feels modern and sleek, with all the bells and whistles to make your drive as smooth as possible, yet with some of today’s seemingly run away prices you just can’t justify a brand-new model fresh off the lot, nor do you want to get a beat-up junker. 

Other than a lease, the answer might come in the form of a used car, one that isn’t always at the top of customers’ minds: former rental cars. Buying a used vehicle from rental car companies like Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis can be an excellent way to save money when you are in the market for a new vehicle. 

Many times, used rental cars are only about a year or two old. They tend to still be in great shape due to low usage and thousands knocked off the original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). 

Here are a few reasons rental vehicles are the smart, sensible and affordable buys when you are looking for a car. 

Excellent Maintenance 

Most national reputable rental car companies heavily depend on vehicle reliability for their customer bases. Vehicles under their care are well-maintained and frequently checked to make sure they are up to date with all their issues. 

Speaking from hands-on experience I can attest rental cars are typically well-maintained, as companies follow rigorous maintenance schedules to ensure the cars are in peak condition to avoid breakdowns during rentals. 

Regular oil changes, tire rotations and thorough inspections are standard practice, and this meticulous upkeep can translate to increased reliability and longevity for you as the next owner. 

Vehicle History Transparency 

Rental cars often come with detailed maintenance and repair records. This should allow you to be more confident when it comes to buying a used vehicle from a rental car company than a personal online seller or “used car lot”. 

These companies document every service incident meticulously, allowing you to have a clear picture of the vehicle’s history. This transparency can give you peace of mind, ensuring you are

fully informed about the car’s condition and any past issues, aiding in making a more informed decision. 

Low Mileage and Depreciation 

One possible red flag when car shopping can be low mileage that’s too good to be true. When it comes to rental cars,however, companies usually buy new cars that get only a small portion of miles added onto them because of how infrequently they are used. This means a lower depreciation overall. 

Since the most significant depreciation hit occurs in the first few years of a car’s life, buying a used car means the previous owner (the rental company) has absorbed most of this initial cost. As the second owner, your depreciation rate is typically slower, ensuring better value retention, and better investment. 

Budget Friendly 

Rental companies buy vehicles in bulk at a discounted price and usually sell them after a few years of service, allowing you to buy relatively new cars at a fraction of the cost of a brand-new one. This depreciation in value can result in significant savings for you, allowing access to a vehicle that might have been out of your budget if bought new. 

Variety of Vehicles 

When exploring rental car sales, you are likely to encounter a large variety of makes and models. On the national level, companies typically offer a diverse fleet to cater to different customer preferences and needs. This variety can allow you to explore multiple options and find a vehicle that suits your taste, needs perfectly, offering a more tailored buying experience. 

Buying a former rental car, you can benefit from these cost savings as the rental company passes on some of these discounts to buyers. All this to say you can access a well-maintained, relatively new vehicle at a competitive price. 

Modern Features 

Part of the fun of buying a new car or driving a rental one (at least for me) is getting to have upgrades and perks that you are not normally used to. So again, purchasing a used rental car takes care of all those desires for something new. 

As rental companies strive to provide the best experience for their customers, their cars are often equipped with the latest features and tech. Buying a former rental can mean getting a used car that’s closer to the forefront of automotive technology without the brand-new price tag. Your accountant will thank you. 

Happy Driving!