Is it a good idea to buy a rental car?

looking inside of a vehicle

Buying a used rental car can be a practical way to get a more recent vehicle at a lower cost than buying brand new. For many, they offer the perfect balance of value, condition and predictability.

Rental vehicles are typically owned by a single company, maintained on scheduled service programs and sold after reaching a relatively short mileage count. But it’s important to understand how a rental car has been used, how it's been maintained and what protections are available after you buy.

The benefits of buying a used rental car

Used rental cars often appeal to buyers for a few reasons:

  • Single-owner history: Since rental vehicles are typically purchased directly from the manufacturers, they usually have one documented owner rather than multiple private owners.
  • Regular maintenance: Vehicles are serviced on consistent schedules to meet fleet standards.
  • Newer model years: Since rental cars are typically sold while still relatively new — often within 1-3 years — they tend to be equipped with newer technology and safety features.

These factors can make buying a rental car a reliable alternative to purchasing a privately owned used car.

How Enterprise Car Sales can help with your rental car purchase

When you shop with Enterprise Car Sales you’ll work with a dedicated sales consultant who will help you find the perfect vehicle for you.

Key Takeaways:

  • Enterprise Car Sales includes a 12-month/12,000-mile limited powertrain warranty3 and 12 months of roadside assistance4 with every vehicle sold, and some newer vehicles may still be covered under their original manufacturer’s warranty.
  • With locations nationwide, Enterprise Car Sales offers a wide variety of used cars, SUVs, trucks and vans, many of which are former Enterprise rental cars.
  • Enterprise Car Sales offers transparent pricing on all vehicles, giving you the confidence to know the price you'll pay without any surprises.

1. Maintenance, inspection and history

Most of our vehicles come directly from the Enterprise fleet, which means they’ve been maintained according to Enterprise service schedules. Plus, just like every car, truck, van and SUV we sell, each is inspected by an ASE-certified technician. These inspections cover major mechanical systems as well as interior and exterior conditions. Vehicles that don’t meet these standards are not made available for sale.

Plus, each vehicle also includes a complimentary, third-party vehicle history report.

2. Warranty and roadside coverage

For extra peace of mind each vehicle we sell includes:

  • 12-month/12,000-mile limited powertrain warranty3 covering most major engine components
  • 12-month roadside assistance4 including towing when needed
  • 7-day buyback2 so if you find the vehicle isn’t right for you, you can return it

Plus, some newer vehicles may still be covered by their original manufacturer’s warranty.

3. Nationwide vehicle selection

With more than 165 locations nationwide, you’ll find a wide variety of used cars, SUVs, trucks and vans to choose from. Plus, if there’s a car you like at another Enterprise Car Sales location, we can transfer it to your local dealership (for a fee) so you can take it for a test drive.

4. Transparent pricing

Every Enterprise Car Sales vehicle is clearly marked with our no-haggle price, giving you confidence that the fair, competitive price you see is the price you’ll pay - no surprises, just a straightforward buying experience.


27-Day Buyback Promise: For a period of 7 days after the date of purchase or 1,000 miles beyond the odometer reading at purchase, whichever comes first, the vehicle may be returned for the exact price originally paid minus a $200 restocking fee (as allowed by law). Restrictions apply. Contact a Sales Consultant for details.

312 Mo / 12,000 Mi Limited Powertrain Warranty: Begins on the vehicle purchase date & extends for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Coverage runs concurrently with manufacturer warranty. Restrictions apply. See a Sales Consultant for details.

4Roadside Assistance: Enterprise 12-Month Unlimited Mileage Roadside Assistance Package is provided by RESPONSE, a Florida Entity. Some limitations & restrictions apply.