 TITLE: Should You Buy a Rental Car? CONTENT: Benefits of Buying a Rental Car\n-------------------------------\nBuying a rental car can have several benefits for car-buyers seeking a bargain.\n*   **Most models are fairly new.** Since many rental car companies remove cars from rotation after just one year, you can get a nearly new vehicle for much less than you'd pay for this year's model from a dealership.\n*   **You may get a deal.** Rental companies buy their cars in bulk, so they get a discount, and are motivated to sell to clear space on their lots. As a result, rental cars may sell at discounts of 10% or more compared with a privately owned car of the same model. (Check the Kelley Blue Book price of the car to be sure.)\n*   **Vehicles are generally well-maintained.** Major car rental agencies take good care to keep their rentals operating smoothly. Vehicles are typically serviced according to manufacturers' recommended schedules using certified technicians.\nThere are also a few downsides to buying a rental car.\n*   **Wear and tear**: Rental cars often have more mileage than the same models would if privately owned. Rentals may be more likely to have scratches, dents, stained upholstery and other cosmetic damage. They may also have been driven harder than a typical used car. However, according to Experian Automotive data, a vehicle having history as a rental has virtually no impact on its longevity.\n*   **Warranty issues**: Depending on its mileage, a rental car may already be out of factory warranty. Some rental car companies compensate for this by including limited warranties, roadside assistance, rental car coverage and other perks with their cars. You can also look for a model from a manufacturer that offers a longer warranty than the standard 36,000 miles, such as Hyundai, Kia and Mitsubishi.\n*   **Just the basics**: Looking for extras like flashy rims, heated seats or a moonroof? You may not find it on a rental car; they tend to be base models without a lot of bells and whistles. END