When shopping for a used car, one of the most crucial steps is checking its history. Many buyers overlook the fact that a vehicle may have previously been a rental car. Enterprise Rent-A-Car, one of the largest rental companies, sells vehicles after a few years of use. While ex-rental cars can be affordable, it’s important to know their history before making a purchase.
Why Should You Check If a Car Was a Rental?
Buying a former rental car isn’t necessarily a bad choice, but it comes with unique considerations:
- High Mileage: Rental cars typically accumulate more kilometres in a short period.
- Frequent Drivers: They are driven by different people, which may affect overall wear and tear.
- Regular Maintenance: Most rental companies follow strict servicing schedules, which is a positive aspect.
- Potential Heavy Use: Some renters may not treat the car as carefully as a private owner would.
To make an informed decision, checking a vehicle’s history through its VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is essential.
How to Check the History of an Enterprise Rental Car
A VIN lookup provides a detailed history of a vehicle, including whether it was previously owned by Enterprise Rent-A-Car or any other rental company. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Locate the VIN
Every vehicle has a unique 17-character VIN, usually found on:
- The dashboard (visible through the windshield)
- The driver’s side door frame
- Vehicle registration documents
2. Use a Reliable VIN Lookup Service
A VIN check through Vinautochecker gives you access to:
- Previous ownership records
- Accident history
- Service and maintenance records
- Reported odometer readings
- Title status (e.g., if the car was ever declared a total loss)
Simply enter the VIN on the Vinautochecker website to get a complete vehicle report.
3. Look for Rental History Indicators
When reviewing the report, check for:
- Previous Owner: If the car was owned by a rental company like Enterprise.
- Fleet Registration: This indicates that the car was used in a rental fleet.
- Frequent Transfers: A vehicle with multiple short-term owners may have been a rental.
4. Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly
Even if the VIN check confirms a rental history, a physical inspection is necessary:
- Look for excessive wear on the interior and exterior.
- Check for signs of repainting, which could indicate past damage.
- Test the brakes, suspension, and engine performance during a test drive.
Should You Buy an Ex-Rental Car from Enterprise?
Pros:
✔ Lower purchase price compared to privately owned used cars.
✔ Well-maintained with regular servicing records.
✔ Typically newer models with modern safety features.
Cons:
✘ Higher mileage than privately owned vehicles.
✘ Potential for cosmetic wear from multiple drivers.
✘ Warranty coverage may be limited depending on the age of the car.
Final Thoughts
Before buying a used vehicle, especially one that may have been a rental, conducting a thorough VIN check with Vinautochecker is a smart move. A detailed report will provide essential insights into the car’s history, helping you avoid costly surprises. Whether you choose to buy a former Enterprise rental or another used vehicle, always verify its history, inspect it carefully, and make an informed decision.
