The mileage limit on a loaner car is not governed by a universal law but is set by the dealership's policy, typically ranging from 100 to 200 miles per day. The most reliable way to know your specific limit is to carefully review the loaner agreement you sign, as this is a legally binding contract. Exceeding the agreed-upon mileage can result in significant per-mile charges, often between $0.25 and $0.50, which can add up quickly.
The primary reason for these limits is insurance. The dealership's insurance policy for loaner vehicles often specifies a daily or total mileage cap to manage risk. Furthermore, these cars are part of the dealer's service loaner fleet and are usually intended for sale as low-mileage, certified pre-owned vehicles. Excessive mileage can directly decrease their resale value.
If you anticipate needing to drive more than the standard allowance, your best course of action is to speak with the service advisor when you drop off your vehicle. In some cases, they can adjust the limit, especially for longer repairs, but this is not guaranteed. Always document the car's mileage with photos or on the check-out sheet when you pick it up and again when you return it to avoid any disputes.
| Dealership Brand | Typical Daily Mileage Limit | Typical Overage Fee (per mile) | Notes |
|---|
| Luxury Brands (e.g., Mercedes, BMW) | 100 - 150 miles | $0.50 - $1.00 | Often more restrictive to protect high-value assets. |
| Mainstream Brands (e.g., Ford, Toyota) | 150 - 200 miles | $0.25 - $0.50 | Policies can vary significantly between individual dealerships. |
| Some Subaru/Volkswagen Dealers | Unlimited (within region) | N/A | Less common, but some promote this as a customer perk. |
| National Rental Car Company | Standard 100-mile/day limit | ~$0.35 | Shows industry baseline, even for paid rentals. |
