The Pros and Cons of Buying a Rental Car: A Comprehensive Guide by MotorVero

In today's car market, even used vehicles can feel financially out of reach for many buyers. For those looking for more affordable options, former rental cars might appear as an enticing choice. But should you buy a rental car, or avoid it at all costs? In this article, we will help you weigh the pros and cons of buying a rental car to ensure you make an informed decision that fits your needs, preferences, and budget.

Are Former Rental Cars Worth Buying?

If you're in the market for a used car, it's likely that some of the vehicles you've considered are former rentals. Many used car lots are stocked with rental cars, especially given the high turnover in the rental industry. Like all used vehicles, buying a former rental comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks in areas like price, maintenance, and potential resale value. With insights from MotorVero, let’s explore the pros and cons to help you make the best decision.

Pro: Typically Newer Models With Advanced Features

One of the main advantages of buying a former rental is that they are often recent models. Rental companies are always looking to attract customers with newer cars, which means they generally purchase the latest models with updated features. When these cars are replaced in the rental fleet—usually after a year or two—they go on sale as used vehicles. This gives used car buyers the opportunity to purchase a relatively modern vehicle with contemporary technology, including the latest safety systems, but at a discount.

Con: Higher Mileage on Relatively New Cars

One downside to buying a rental car is the mileage. Rental vehicles are often driven more frequently than cars owned by a single person. Typically, a one- to two-year-old rental car may have accumulated 25,000 to 40,000 miles, which is considerably more than the average privately-owned vehicle of the same age. While mileage alone isn’t necessarily a problem—especially if the car is well-maintained—it's still something to consider when making your purchase decision. High mileage on a newer model might raise concerns about wear and tear, which is something to keep in mind for long-term reliability.

Pro: Consistent Maintenance and Upkeep

Rental car companies are usually diligent about keeping their vehicles well-maintained. Fleet management is a core aspect of their business, meaning they prioritize regular maintenance to ensure that their cars are roadworthy and ready for customer use. This means that routine services such as oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations are done on time, making these cars mechanically sound in many cases. Major rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise often offer warranties on their used vehicles, which further reassures buyers about the car's maintenance record and reliability.

Con: Likely to Have Experienced More Wear and Tear

While rental cars do receive consistent maintenance, it’s important to remember that they are driven by a wide variety of people with different driving habits. Some drivers may drive cautiously, while others may accelerate aggressively or brake hard. This kind of varied usage can result in faster wear on essential components like brakes and tires. Beyond mechanical wear, cosmetic damage such as scratches, scuffs, and minor interior issues may also be more prevalent compared to privately-owned vehicles. Rental companies strive to keep their cars in good condition, but expect some evidence of heavy use when buying one.

Pro: Lower Purchase Price Compared to Similar Models

Rental car agencies buy vehicles in bulk, which allows them to secure significant discounts from manufacturers. When they decide to sell these vehicles, they often do so at competitive prices because their main focus is on renewing their fleet, rather than making profits from individual car sales. As a result, former rental cars are generally offered at a lower price than similar used cars from private sellers or dealerships. Many rental companies also feature no-haggle pricing, which can simplify the buying process—you know exactly what you’ll pay without the stress of negotiation. Plus, some companies like Avis and Hertz even offer three-day test drives to help ensure the car is right for you.

Con: Lower Resale Value Down the Road

A notable downside of buying a rental car is the lower resale value. Because these vehicles were rentals, the stigma of "hard use" can make them less appealing to potential buyers when it comes time for you to sell or trade in the vehicle. Additionally, when rental companies release multiple units of the same model into the used car market at the same time, the value for those models is driven down by the increase in supply. If you plan to sell your vehicle in a few years, be aware that you may not get a high return compared to other used cars.

Tips for Buying a Former Rental Car from MotorVero

At MotorVero, we believe that buying a rental car can be a great way to save money on a used vehicle, provided you follow some important steps:

• Get a Vehicle History Report: Make sure to check for any accidents or serious mechanical issues in the vehicle's past. You can use services like CarFax or AutoCheck to get a detailed report.
• Request Service Records: Having access to a detailed service history will provide insight into how well the car has been maintained.
• Test Drive the Vehicle: Always test drive the car to get a feel for any mechanical or cosmetic issues. Consider taking the car to a trusted mechanic for an independent inspection as well.
• Consider Extended Warranties: If available, extended warranties can give you peace of mind when purchasing a used rental vehicle.

The Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Rental Car?

Buying a rental car is all about weighing the pros and cons and making a decision that aligns with your personal preferences and needs. A former rental car can be a great way to get a newer model with modern features at an affordable price. However, you will need to be comfortable with the higher mileage and possible wear and tear that comes with a rental car. Lower resale value is another consideration if you plan to trade in or sell the car down the road.

At MotorVero, we encourage potential buyers to do their due diligence when buying a former rental. The decision ultimately comes down to your priorities—if affordability and newer features are at the top of your list, then a former rental may be a worthwhile investment.

About MotorVero

MotorVero is committed to helping you make well-informed car buying decisions. We work with trusted partners to provide you with detailed vehicle history, car maintenance tips, and a variety of car-buying insights. Whether you’re looking for your next car, trying to decide between different buying options, or needing more information on car maintenance, MotorVero is here to assist every step of the way.