Yes, you can often buy a courtesy car, but it's not a straightforward retail purchase. These vehicles, often called "loaner cars" or "service loaners," are primarily used by dealerships to provide temporary transportation for customers whose cars are being serviced. After being used for this purpose for a certain period or mileage, they are typically sold as certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. This makes them an attractive option for used car buyers seeking a nearly-new car with a robust warranty.
The key advantage is that these cars are usually recent models with low mileage and have been maintained meticulously by the dealership's own service department. They also often come with the remainder of the factory warranty and an extended CPO warranty. However, because they've had multiple short-term drivers, they may have more wear and tear than a single-owner vehicle of the same age and mileage. It's crucial to get a full vehicle history report and have an independent mechanic inspect it before committing.
| Consideration | Typical Detail for a Courtesy Car | Why It Matters |
|---|
| Mileage | 3,000 - 15,000 miles | Indicates limited, mostly city-use driving. |
| Vehicle Age | 6 - 18 months old | A very recent model year, often the latest design. |
| Warranty Status | Original factory warranty plus CPO extension | Provides longer-term peace of mind than a standard used car. |
| Maintenance History | Full service records from the dealership | Confirms all scheduled maintenance was performed on time. |
| Number of Previous Owners | Officially 1 (the dealership) | Simpler title history, but the car was driven by many people. |
| Price vs. New MSRP | 15% - 25% discount | Significant savings while avoiding initial depreciation hit. |
When searching, look for specific listings labeled "Dealer Loaner" or "Executive Demo" on dealership websites. The sales process is identical to buying any other used car from that dealer. Negotiate the price based on comparable CPO vehicles in your area, not just the listed price.
