Ride home from dealership

[tishpit]

I called my salesman today as I have a concern about how to get home from the dealership if my car is in for warranty work. (I live about an hour and a quarter drive from the nearest Smart dealer and know of no one able to drive that far (most people I know down here are in their 80's and don't drive on the interstate or that long of a distance). He informed me that neither the dealership nor Smart USA have any contingencies in place at this time regarding a "loaner" or shuttle ride home. BUT... the salesman (Jon) was very nice and said that the policy may change by the time my Smart comes in and if not, we would "work something out." I have another car (Jeep) to use, but need to get home. He made me feel a lot more confident that he would work with me to jump this hurdle. But before I buy, I will get that in writing from the sales manager. Also, I want to drive a car without the power steering to compare and he graciously offered to remove one from the showroom for me to drive... to just let him know ahead of time so he can move the cars around in the showroom to get it out. Very nice, indeed! This is Sarasota (Florida) Smart dealer. Love it that it's smack in the midst of a fleet of Jaguars and Lexus. Feel like I should be wearing an Armani outfit, Louboutin shoes, and a Gucci purse just to test drive LOL!

[buellwinkle]

Most dealers have rental car agreements with local rental companies or Enterprise. You can probably get a rental for $25.

[tjmodz]

All my dealer said was that they'd set up a rental car for me, no loaners. And they are Penske owned.

[ostfriese]

Smart dealer of Jacksonville offered me shuttle service, upon finding out that i live two and half hours away they gave me a loaner.

[jmascia5]

With all the quirks reported, I decided to take out a 5 year 100K warranty. This would provide 7 day rental at no cost as well as zero deductible repair on all covered items.

I live 125 from nearest dealer an thought this was a good idea.

I think you can take out an extended warranty any time within year after purchase.

[DFWehman]

If you don't mind my asking, who did you go with and what type of plan? Sounds pretty comprehensive to include a rental!

[Big Panda]

Originally Posted by jmascia5

With all the quirks reported, I decided to take out a 5 year 100K warranty. This would provide 7 day rental at no cost as well as zero deductible repair on all covered items.

I live 125 from nearest dealer an thought this was a good idea.

I think you can take out an extended warranty any time within year after purchase.

in many cases, an 'extended warranty' contract only provides a rental car IF your car is "down" overnight. meaning if you drop it off in the morning and it's ready later that day, YOU pay for the rental, not the warranty company.

make sure you get it in writing that you are NOT responsible for the rental charge if your car is ready to pick up the same day.