After an accident or unexpected car repair, one of the first concerns most customers have is transportation. Your daily routine depends on your own car, and being without it can quickly turn into a major inconvenience. A common question we hear is, do rental cars or loaner vehicles come with the repair service? The honest answer is that it depends on the type of service, the repair location, and your insurance policy. Rental cars and loaner options are handled very differently across many dealerships, insurance companies, and every auto repair shop or garage. Understanding how these options work ahead of time helps you plan, reduce stress, and avoid surprises while your vehicle is in the shop.

The Short Answer: Sometimes, But Not Automatically

Rental transportation is not automatically included with car repair. In most situations, a rental car is coordinated through insurance, while a loaner vehicle is part of a loaner car program offered by certain dealers or repair facilities. Some shops offer loaner cars as a courtesy service, but availability is limited and often subject to eligibility rules. Knowing the difference between rental options and a loaner program is the easiest way to set clear expectations before you drop your car off for service or an oil change.

How Rental Cars Typically Work During Collision Repairs

Rental Cars Are Usually an Insurance Benefit

A rental car is most often paid for through car insurance, not included in the repair service itself. Whether your insurance policy covers a rental depends on the coverage you selected before the accident. Many customers assume a rental car comes standard with repairs, but insurance policy covers rental transportation only when specific conditions are met. The insurance company reviews the claim, the fault determination, and the approved repair timeline before authorizing a rental.

When the Other Driver Is at Fault

If another driver caused the accident, their insurance company may cover the cost of a rental car while repairs are completed. This coverage is usually limited to reasonable repair time and an approved daily cost. The insurance company determines what is covered, how long the rental lasts, and which vehicle class is eligible. Customers should expect standard models rather than a new car or luxury upgrade, though some dealers, like BMW or Subaru, may offer loaner vehicles as part of their customer service deal.

When You Are Using Your Own Insurance Policy

When repairs go through your own insurance policy, rental coverage depends on whether you added rental reimbursement to your plan. Not every insurance policy covers rental expenses. If it does, there is typically a daily limit and a total cost cap. Once that limit is reached, the customer must pay the remaining rental cost out of pocket. Reviewing your insurance policy ahead of time helps avoid confusion.

What Is a Loaner Vehicle?

Loaner vs Rental, What Is the Difference?

A loaner vehicle is provided directly by the dealer or garage as part of a loaner car program. A rental car comes from a rental agency and is usually billed to insurance or the customer. A loaner is sometimes called a courtesy car and is meant to keep customers mobile during repairs or warranty work. Loaner vehicles are not guaranteed and are offered as a convenience, not a requirement.

Do Collision Repair Shops Offer Loaner Cars?

Some shops offer loaner cars, while others do not. Many dealers have a dedicated loaner vehicle program, especially for warranty repair or warranty work. Many dealers offer loaner cars to improve customer satisfaction, but high demand often limits availability. Independent auto repair shops or garages may also offer loaner vehicles, but programs vary widely by business. It is important to note that access to a loaner vehicle may depend on whether you are the registered owner of the vehicle being repaired.

Loaner Vehicle Policies You Should Expect

To get a loaner, customers usually need a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and sometimes a credit card on file. Age requirement rules often apply, and mileage limits are common. Customers must sign an agreement, return the vehicle with gas replaced, and follow all usage rules. Loaner availability can change daily, so it is important to ask ahead when scheduling an appointment. Some dealers may also offer a shuttle service for customers who do not qualify for a loaner or when loaner cars are unavailable.

Common Myths About Rentals and Loaner Cars

The Body Shop Has to Provide a Rental

An auto repair shop or dealer is not required to provide a rental or loaner vehicle. Transportation is a separate part of the repair process.

Insurance Always Covers a Rental

Insurance only covers a rental when the insurance policy includes that benefit or when another driver is at fault.

I Will Get the Same Model I Drive

Most rental coverage applies to a basic vehicle class. Customers should not expect the same model, trim, or a new car replacement.

The Rental Is Covered for the Entire Repair Timeline

Rental coverage is limited to insurance approved repair days. Delays can affect coverage.

How Long Will Insurance Pay for a Rental Car?

Repair Time vs Insurance Approved Time

Insurance companies calculate rental coverage based on estimated repair hours converted into calendar days. Supplements or hidden damage may extend repairs, but rental extensions are not automatic.

Total Loss Situations

When a vehicle is declared a total loss, rental coverage usually ends shortly after a settlement offer. Customers should prepare for a transition back to their own car or alternate transportation.

What Happens If Repairs Take Longer Than Expected?

Delays can happen due to parts availability, manufacturer requirements, or additional damage discovered during repairs. When this happens, the shop or dealer communicates with the insurance company to request approval. If rental limits are reached, customers may need to pay or return the rental. Planning ahead helps reduce wait times and added cost.

How Re-Lux Collision Helps Customers Stay Mobile

Coordinating With Insurance Companies

Our team assists customers by coordinating directly with the insurance company to confirm rental approvals and timelines. We help ensure rental arrangements align with repair progress.

Helping You Understand Your Coverage Before Repairs Begin

We review insurance policy details with customers so they know what is covered, what is not, and what to expect throughout the service process. Clear communication protects customers from unexpected expenses.

Questions to Ask Before You Drop Off Your Vehicle

• Does your insurance policy cover rental transportation?
• What are the daily and total rental limits?
• Are loaner vehicles available, and am I eligible to get one?
• What are the driver’s license and age requirements?
• What proof of insurance is needed?
• How long are repairs expected to take?
• What happens if delays occur?
• Does the dealer or garage offer a shuttle service?
• Can I reserve a loaner car ahead of time to secure availability?
• Note any specific policies related to your vehicle’s manufacturer, such as BMW or Subaru, as these brands may have unique loaner vehicle programs.

FAQs About Rental Cars and Loaner Vehicles During Car Repair

Do all repair shops offer loaner cars?

No. Loaner availability depends on the shop or dealer and the specific loaner car program.

Can I choose my own rental company?

Sometimes, but insurance reimbursement may be capped.

Will insurance pay for gas?

Gas is typically the customer’s responsibility.

Can I keep the rental after repairs are complete?

Rental coverage usually ends once repairs are complete.

What if I do not have rental coverage?

You can still rent a vehicle, but you are responsible for the cost. In some cases, a loan may be a cheaper option than paying out of pocket for a rental.

Final Takeaway: Know Your Coverage and Plan Ahead

Rental cars and loaner vehicles do not automatically come with the repair service. Some dealers and shops offer loaner cars as a courtesy, while rentals are typically handled through insurance. Understanding your insurance policy, asking the right questions, and scheduling ahead makes the process smoother. At Re-Lux Collision, we assist customers every step of the way, from coordinating insurance to helping manage transportation, so your repair experience stays as stress free as possible.

Get Back on the Road With Confidence

If you have questions about rental options, loaner vehicle availability, or insurance coverage, our team is here to assist. Schedule your appointment by phone, call our shop, or reach out online and let us help you stay on track while we complete your repairs with precision and care.