Is it safe to drive the courtesy car provided by a 4S store?
4 Answers
The courtesy car provided by a 4S store can be driven, but in case of a traffic accident, the responsible party needs to bear the liability. Here is an introduction to 4S stores: 1. Introduction to 4S stores: A 4S store, fully known as an automobile sales service 4S store, is a car sales enterprise that integrates four functions: vehicle sales, spare parts, after-sales service, and information feedback. 2. Services of 4S stores: At a 4S store, you can receive all value-added services related to car information, market trends, after-sales service, maintenance instructions, and spare parts supply. Whether it's a complete vehicle or parts, they are guaranteed to be original, eliminating concerns about after-sales service, repairs, and maintenance.
I've used the courtesy cars from 4S shops several times when getting my car serviced, and honestly they're quite reliable. These vehicles are usually test-drive cars that just underwent maintenance or retired display models, with the shop conducting regular checks on critical components like brakes and tires. I remember driving their old Corolla once - though the interior was a bit dated, the engine ran super smoothly. However, you need to inspect the car carefully when picking it up, checking for scratches or warning lights on the dashboard. A friend once found the wipers weren't working and had the staff change the car on the spot. Overall they're much more worry-free than rental cars, since 4S shops are concerned about accidents damaging their reputation. As long as it's not particularly old inventory, these cars work perfectly fine for daily commuting.
As a car owner who frequently visits 4S shops, whether you dare to drive a loaner car depends on the situation. Vehicles from reputable dealerships come with full insurance coverage. Last time when I scratched the guardrail while driving a Passat loaner car, the insurance company directly handled the claim. Always prioritize models within three years of production and avoid vehicles older than ten years. Before taking the car, I always check three things: whether the tire pressure is normal, if the brake response is quick, and if there are any warning lights on the dashboard. Once when I noticed a strange odor from the AC, the shop immediately replaced it with a new one for me. Don't speed when driving, as loaner cars may not perform as steadily as your own vehicle. But overall, their safety is guaranteed, making them especially suitable for short-distance needs like picking up kids.
Last week, I left my car at the 4S shop for body repair and drove their loaner Jetta for three days. That car had only 20,000 kilometers on it and felt almost like new. The 4S shop actually manages loaner cars quite strictly, with maintenance records for each one. Pay special attention to the oil dipstick and brake pad thickness. For example, when I test-drove it and noticed steering wheel vibration, the technician immediately adjusted the wheel balance. I recommend avoiding using it during the rainy season—a friend of mine nearly had an accident due to worn-out wipers on a loaner car. Overall, it's safer than ride-hailing services, especially for daily commutes. But don’t expect luxury; just treat it as a practice car.
