Used car rental: saving money without sacrificing quality

Every one of us when driving a car wants maximum comfort and safety. Often renting used cars is seen as an activity that makes you give up these aspects. We will try to dispel this myth in this article.

In reality, used cars – subject to maintenance and a good check-up – are excellent investments that allow you to access mobility while saving a lot of money. However, even here it is possible to rely on several solutions: ranging from simple long-term rental to purchase.

What does the NLT of used cars consist of?

The evolution of the long-term rental sector seems to be pointing in a clear direction, especially after the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The automotive industry has seen a significant increase in long-term rentals, prompting car rental companies to introduce an even more attractive option: the long-term rental of used vehicles, promising an experience comparable, if not identical, to that of a new vehicle.

This option has significant differences and economic advantages compared to buying a used car from a private party. Long-term leasing of used vehicles offers an additional guarantee on the condition of the vehicle, with guaranteed assistance in case of need or problems.

Leasing a used car allows you to drive a vehicle in excellent condition at a significantly lower cost than buying or leasing a completely new vehicle. Despite the differences compared to a new vehicle, the conditions for long-term leasing of a used car remain constant, with a fixed monthly fee that includes all necessary services.

The ‘all-inclusive’ fee includes services such as third-party liability insurance, routine and extraordinary maintenance, roadside assistance, a predetermined mileage limit and the possibility of using a replacement vehicle in case of need.

However, it is advisable to carefully examine every aspect when considering the option of a used car, regardless of the choice between purchase and rental. Key factors to consider include the actual mileage of the vehicle, its history, regular servicing, the condition of the tyres and the general condition of the car.

Long-term rental contracts for used vehicles are valued for the peace of mind they offer motorists. Anyone who has signed a vehicle rental contract does not have to worry about anything except paying the road tax and refuelling.

5 Advantages of renting a used car

The advantages of leasing a used car that is in excellent condition are obvious. Apart from the economic aspect, which significantly reduces the initial outlay for mobility (as opposed to leasing or buying), there are other aspects to be considered:

1. Verified mileage: once you have logged in to the latest mileage area in the Motorist Portal, you can check the actual number of kilometres travelled. This check ensures that the kilometres reported on the car’s dashboard correspond to reality, guaranteeing transparency and reliability when assessing the vehicle.
2. Used vehicle history: Using the car’s number plates, it is possible to obtain information on the vehicle’s history, including any involvement in road accidents or irreparable breakdowns. Knowing the vehicle’s past history is essential for a correct and accurate valuation before making purchase or rental decisions.
3. Regular servicing: Although maintenance is included in long-term rental (NLT) contracts, it is always important to ensure that the vehicle has been serviced regularly. This helps reduce the risk of unpleasant surprises related to mechanical problems while using the vehicle.
4. Tyre condition: Checking the condition of the tyres provides further details on the stability of the vehicle. In case of uncertainty, consulting a trusted tyre specialist for professional advice is advisable, ensuring the safety and optimum performance of the vehicle.
5. General condition of the vehicle: The condition of a car does not only concern the mechanical aspect but also includes the bodywork. Scratches, damage, dents and other imperfections can be indicative of past events such as car accidents. A complete assessment of the vehicle’s overall condition is essential for making informed purchase or rental decisions, ensuring that the vehicle meets your needs and expectations.

Car rental companies guarantee these aspects upstream, focusing on the quality of what they lease. It goes without saying that our suggestion remains that you carry out a thorough check by taking a trusted mechanic with you (should you not have the appropriate skills for the check).

In any case, compared with buying a used car from a private individual, leasing from a dealership or a company specialising in rentals gives you an additional guarantee of around one or two years (depending on the duration and type of contract).

Another advantage of long-term leasing of a used car is that you can enjoy the same benefits offered by NLT contracts for a newer car, while also benefiting from the same services provided and included in the ‘all-inclusive’ lease.

Why invest in used car leasing?

Investing in long-term leasing is a smart option to access mobility without committing to a costly purchase. Buying a vehicle can entail unforeseen expenses that jeopardise your budget and financial liquidity.

This is why long-term rental contracts are preferred, as they already include several services that help reduce financial risks (all the more so if the car turns out to be used).

A further reason for optimism with regard to long-term rental contracts for used cars concerns inflation, especially in a historical period characterised by price rises and precarious jobs, where any unforeseen event could jeopardise any economic stability.

The services provided by long-term rental contracts offer a series of advantages for both private individuals and companies, simplifying the management of costs linked to vehicle use in a transparent manner. Here is a summary of the points to take into account in order to benefit from this choice:

1. Financial savings: Long-term leasing of a used car eliminates the need for a large initial investment in the purchase of the vehicle. You pay a fixed monthly fee that includes many of the costs associated with using the vehicle.
2. Included services: Rental contracts often include services such as maintenance, insurance and roadside assistance, reducing the uncertainty of unforeseen costs and simplifying management, as the car rental company itself takes care of all the paperwork.
3. Constant updating: Rental offers the possibility of regularly driving new and modern vehicles, avoiding obsolescence and benefiting from technological advances.
4. End of contract: At the end of the rental contract, it is possible to return the vehicle without having to worry about resale, further simplifying the customer’s life.
5. Tax benefits: Depending on the tax situation, long-term leasing can offer tax benefits, with up to 100% of the VAT paid (in the case of instrumental use) being deducted and deducted from the rental fee.

In summary, long-term leasing is a convenient and flexible solution to meet mobility needs while ensuring simplified cost management.