Yes, you can absolutely buy your rental car from Enterprise. The company operates one of the largest and most well-established used vehicle sales networks in the U.S., known as Enterprise Car Sales. This is a standard part of their business model to cycle out their rental fleet. However, the decision involves weighing the benefits of a well-maintained, recent-model car against the potential downsides of its prior rental life.
The Process of Buying from Enterprise
The process is straightforward and similar to buying from any major used car dealer. You can browse their inventory online or visit an Enterprise Car Sales location. The cars are typically late-model vehicles with low to average mileage that are being retired from the rental fleet. Each vehicle comes with a complete vehicle history report and a multi-point inspection.
Pros and Cons to Consider
The main advantage is value. You can often find a newer car for a lower price than a comparable model from a private seller or franchise dealership. These cars also usually have a consistent maintenance history, as rental fleets adhere to strict service schedules. A significant pro is the availability of optional warranty coverage, like their 12-month/12,000-mile Limited Power Train Warranty.
The primary concern is the vehicle's history. While maintained, a rental car has likely been driven by many people who may not have been gentle. This can lead to more wear on the interior, brakes, and tires than a single-owner vehicle. It's crucial to get an independent pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential issues.
Key Steps Before You Buy
- Review the History Report: Check for accidents, title issues, and the number of previous owners.
- Get an Independent Inspection: Have your own trusted mechanic look the car over.
- Compare Prices: Research the fair market value for the same model, year, and mileage on sites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB).
- Understand the Warranty: Carefully review what is and isn't covered by any optional warranty.
| Consideration | Details | Supporting Data / Example |
|---|
| Average Mileage | Vehicles are typically retired with low to moderate mileage. | 30,000 - 60,000 miles |
| Vehicle Age | Fleet consists of recent models. | 1-3 years old |
| Price Advantage | Often priced competitively against other used car sources. | Typically 10-20% below original MSRP |
| Warranty Option | Optional limited powertrain coverage provides peace of mind. | 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty |
| Maintenance History | Fleet vehicles follow a strict maintenance schedule. | Service records are typically available |
| Inspection Process | Each car undergoes a multi-point inspection before sale. | 100+ point inspection checklist |
