Buying a Rental Car in South Africa: Tips, Benefits & Car Insurance Advice

Buying a rental car might not be the first thing you think of when shopping for a vehicle, but in South Africa, it’s a smart way to get a well-maintained, modern car at a reduced price. Many reputable car rental companies sell their older fleet models after a year or two, offering excellent value for money.

Whether you’re looking for a hatchback, sedan, SUV, or 4x4, you can often find popular models like the Toyota Corolla Quest, VW Polo Vivo, Kia Picanto, and Toyota Etios in great condition. In this guide, 1st for Women explains the advantages, how to buy a rental car, and how to get Car Insurance for it. 

Is buying a rental car a good idea?

Yes. Rental cars can be an excellent purchase. Around 15% of vehicle sales in South Africa are from rental fleets, largely because buyers get newer models at competitive prices. Rental companies sell their cars regularly to keep their fleets fresh, which means you can get a relatively new, well-maintained vehicle without the new-car price tag. Choosing a trusted brand also means better resale value and lower long-term ownership costs. It’s also possible to get affordable Car Insurance for a used rental. 

How to buy a used rental car

Most major car rental companies in South Africa list their vehicles for sale online. You can:

• Search by make, model, year, mileage, and colour.

• Use price filters to fit your budget.

• Book a test drive before committing.
  

Benefits of buying a rental car

• Lower prices. Rental cars are often priced below market value because companies aim to sell quickly. This means you could save thousands compared to a dealership. Just note: resale value may be slightly lower compared to a car with only one private owner.

• Well-maintained fleet. Rental companies have strict maintenance schedules to protect their investment, including regular servicing, cleaning, and safety checks.

• Affordable finance options. Like traditional dealerships, rental companies often partner with accredited finance providers to offer competitive vehicle finance packages.

• 30-Day exchange options. Some companies, such as Avis, offer a 30-day exchange if you’re not satisfied with the car’s mechanical condition.
  
  

1st for Women’s 7 tips for buying a rental car

1. Check the mileage. Most ex-rental cars are under two years old but may have higher mileage than privately owned cars. Lower mileage is better.

2. Confirm ownership. Ensure the car came directly from the manufacturer.

3. Review the service history – Look for a complete, consistent record without mileage discrepancies.

4. Check service intervals. Missing scheduled services can void warranties.
   Ask about an extended warranty. 1st for Women can help you explore extended cover options.

5. Confirm accident history. Get full details of any past damage or repairs.

6. Consider a trade-in. Many rental companies accept trade-ins to reduce your purchase cost.

7. Get Car Insurance from 1st for Women so that your investment is protected
   
   

Car Insurance for used cars

Whether your car is new or used, insurance is essential. At 1st for Women, we recommend Car Insurance for rental cars to protect against theft, accidents, and unexpected repairs.

Did you know? Rental Car Insurance is different as it covers vehicles you hire for short-term use. When you buy a rental car, you’ll need standard Car Insurance, tailored to your needs.

Major car rental companies that sell used cars in South Africa

• Avis

• Hertz

• First Car Rental

• Thrifty
  
  

Get a Car Insurance quote today

Buying a rental car can save you money, but make sure you’re covered from day one. 1st for Women offers tailored Car Insurance solutions with benefits designed for women, including roadside assistance and a Guardian Angel on Call in emergencies. Get an online Car Insurance quote today and drive with confidence.