Why Choosing A Repair Shop That Offers Courtesy Cars Makes All The Difference

Whether you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault or simply had a minor bump, having your car repaired can really disrupt your daily life. Many of us rely on our cars for everything from getting to and from work and doing the weekly shop to dropping kids at school, visiting family or caring for elderly relatives. If you think about all the times you use your car, you soon begin to realise how seriously inconvenient it can be without it, even if only for a few days.

That’s why choosing garages with courtesy cars when you need a repair is a no-brainer. Of course, it’s not essential for a great repair, but it can certainly make the whole process a little bit easier and a lot less stressful.

Can I Get a Courtesy Car?

While a courtesy car is nice to have, it’s not a given and will ultimately depend on what’s in your insurance policy. If it was a non-fault accident (i.e. you didn’t cause it), then you should have one for the duration of the repairs. If you were at fault, check the wording of your policy.

It’s also worth remembering that courtesy cars don’t come as standard. While some policies, particularly comprehensive ones, include them, subject to availability, some classify it as an optional extra you have to pay for. If you only have third-party insurance, it’s unlikely to be included.

There may also be other restrictions based on your age, driver history and risk profile and using an insurer-approved repairer. Plus, there’s the question of availability – if the garage where your car is being repaired is busy, there may simply not be enough available.

Benefits of Having a Courtesy Car

If you do have access to a courtesy car, the whole repair process can run a lot smoother:

1. Minimises disruption to daily life – Selecting a repair shop that offers courtesy cars reduces the impact on your daily routine, enabling you to still get around and stick to your schedule, rather than the hassle of making alternative plans
2. Enhanced customer service – Garages with courtesy cars demonstrate an enhanced level of customer service. They want to do the best they can for their customers, and if they offer courtesy cars as standard, then there’s every chance they put that level of commitment into high-quality repairs too
3. Streamlined repair process – Repair shops that have courtesy cars are well-organised and have efficient repair processes in place. They’re adept at facilitating quicker assessments and repairs, which can lead to a faster return of your own vehicle
4. Cost-effective solution – Not only is having a courtesy car more convenient, it can be more cost-effective too, rather than having to pay for alternative options like Uber, taxis and public transport

Is A Courtesy Car Covered Under My Insurance?

If there’s provision in your insurance policy for a courtesy car, then you’ll be insured to drive that car under the same terms as your own. This extends to named drivers on your policy. It’s worth double-checking the level of cover, however – your usual policy may be fully comprehensive, but some insurers stipulate third party only on courtesy cars.

Will The Courtesy Car Be The Same as Mine?

It’s unlikely. Courtesy cars are usually small and economical to run. Think hatchbacks or four-seat runarounds. It’s worth looking closely at your policy, though. Some specify a like-for-like car or a clause for a hire car instead, in which case it may be closer to your own car. Some insurers may also give you the option to pay for an upgrade.

What Happens If I Have an Accident In a Courtesy Car?

We hope this never happens, but if it does, you’re covered under your insurance the same as your own car. You’ll have to pay the excess if you’re at fault, and it will be treated as a separate claim to the one your own car is being repaired for. You’ll need to declare this at the time of renewal, along with any other accidents.

Get in contact with the team at EvolveArc today!

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