5 Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Car from Hertz

Summary and Overview

Hertz Used Car Sales specializes in retailing pre-owned vehicles from its rental fleet, offering sedans, SUVs, trucks, luxury, electric, and hybrid models nationwide. Their Hertz Certified program includes a 115-point inspection and a 12-month/12,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, enhancing buyer confidence. With no-haggle pricing often below market value, a Buy Back Guarantee, and financing options like Rent2Buy®, Hertz provides a straightforward purchasing experience. Despite these benefits, buyers should be cautious of high mileage, variable wear, and potential hidden damages common in rental vehicles, and consider independent inspections for added assurance.

Vehicle Quality, Inspections, and Maintenance

Hertz ensures vehicle quality through its Certified Clean & Safe program and rigorous mechanical inspections, including a 115-point quality assurance check. Each vehicle undergoes continuous maintenance during rental periods and is accompanied by a certification card indicating readiness for sale. Buyers are advised to review vehicle history reports and obtain third-party inspections to detect issues like poor repairs or flood damage. Pre-paid maintenance plans are available to support long-term reliability.

Pricing, Purchase Process, and Buyer Protections

Hertz offers no-haggle, competitive pricing with many vehicles under $20,000. The purchase begins with a down payment, followed by financing options through Rent2Buy®. The Buy Back Guarantee allows returns within seven days or 250 miles, with a minimal fee deducted. Vehicles come with a limited powertrain warranty covering repairs, travel breakdown protection, roadside assistance, and optional extended coverage for advanced technologies. The entire purchasing process, including financing and delivery, can be completed online, though in-person inspections may be limited due to active rentals.

Test Drives and Inspections

Hertz’s Certified program includes a detailed multi-point inspection and vehicle history review, complemented by road tests to assess performance. The Rent2Buy® program allows a low-cost three-day rental trial, waived upon purchase, enabling thorough evaluation. Despite comprehensive inspections, buyers should conduct independent mechanical inspections and test drives to identify potential cosmetic or hidden issues such as frame damage or flood-related problems. Title washing remains a risk, underscoring the importance of due diligence.

Common Issues and Additional Considerations

Used rental vehicles often have high mileage and varied wear from multiple renters. Some cars may have been sold through auctions to other dealers, complicating history verification. Title washing and hidden flood damage are key risks, warranting careful inspection. While Hertz offers warranties and travel breakdown protections, availability for inspection before purchase can be limited. Comparing prices with new vehicles is advised, as the cost difference may sometimes be minimal. Ultimately, thorough research and inspections are essential for a satisfactory purchase from Hertz.

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