Buying a car is the second-most expensive purchase that many of us make in our lives. So it makes sense that money-conscious people want to save money on their vehicles, whether that’s through negotiation tactics at a dealership or buying a rental car.
Some tips, such as doing your homework to understand the going rate for the make and model you want before heading to a dealership, are useful. Finding other “bargains” with the intention of saving more and spending less can leave you full of regret.
Where does buying a vehicle from a rental car company fall within that spectrum?
That’s what a listener of the Clark Howard Podcast recently asked.
Does Clark Endorse Buying Cars From Rental Car Companies?
Is it a good idea to go bargain-hunting for a vehicle? And more specifically, should you buy a rental car?
A listener wanted Clark’s take on the topic on the March 6 podcast episode.
Asked Wiggins in Texas: “I read your [2020] article on the pros and cons of buying a rental vehicle. Since conditions have changed since then, I was wondering what advice you have now.”
Logically, most drivers take better care of cars that they own than of cars they rent for a few days. Perhaps rental cars illicit more of a lead foot on the gas pedal or more wear on the tires by carrying speed through turns.
Plus, a rental car company trying to maximize its profits may stretch out and minimize car maintenance more than the average vehicle owner.
Most people are wary of buying a vehicle that’s been in a car accident. Should we also be cautious about cars that have been part of a rental car fleet? Does Clark think that logic holds true?
“It’s an even worse idea to buy a vehicle from a rental car fleet than it ever was,” Clark says. “Vehicles are ending up in the rental fleets with far more miles [on the odometer] than they used to.”
“They’re not being maintained well by the rental car companies. Rental car companies aren’t used to taking care of vehicles that have as may as 50,000 miles on them. And so the vehicles are suffering from neglect.
“I would not look at buying a used vehicle from one of the rental fleets. I think it’s asking for trouble.”
How To Save Money Buying a New or Used Car
Supply chain and inventory issues related to COVID-19 caused a massive spike in vehicle prices. An extreme chip shortage contributed to those issues.
A lot of those issues are alleviating, Clark says, making the vehicle market more consumer-friendly. New and used vehicle prices are moderating on different timelines. But the later in 2023 (and perhaps into 2024) you wait to buy a vehicle, the better you’ll do on the price, Clark has predicted.
“The good news for you is the used vehicle market prices have come down a whole lot from where they were. And many brands are now showing a lot more inventory of new vehicles on their lots,” Clark says.
“Throughout 2023, every single month you’re going to see the cost of used vehicles especially getting better. They’re steadily coming down on used vehicles. New vehicles will trend down as well, and time is your friend.”
Here are some other ways you can look to make a smart, efficient vehicle purchase:
- Follow Clark’s maximum auto loan length rule. (Limit your auto loan to a maximum of 42 months.)
- Target a used car that’s two or three years old rather than a new car.
- Pre-qualify for a car loan through a credit union if you need to finance.
- Never discuss whether you have a trade-in or if you’re paying in cash until you have a price on the car you want to buy.
- Consider buying one of the 12 best vehicles for your money, one of the 11 new cars under $20,000 or one of the vehicles most likely to last 200,000 miles.
- Learn about the best time to buy a car.
Final Thoughts
Buying a rental car may seem like a money-saving opportunity. But it isn’t a great idea according to Clark.
He worries about whether cars sold from a rental fleet have been well maintained and thinks that you’re at major risk of inheriting a lemon with a lot of miles.
Instead, focus on making smart decisions on financing, the make and model of the car you buy and other strategic areas.
Have you ever purchased a rental car? Tell us about your experience in our Clark.com Community!
