Accidents & repairs
Courtesy car and car hire cover
By Sipho Dlamini · 5 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
- What it is
- Temporary replacement car during a valid claim repair
- Usually
- An optional add on, not automatic
- Often needs
- Use of an approved repairer
- Limits
- Set vehicle group and maximum days
Courtesy car (or car hire) cover gives you a temporary replacement vehicle while your car is being repaired after a valid claim. In South Africa it is usually an optional add on, often only available when you use an approved repairer, with a set vehicle group and a maximum number of days. It does not normally apply if your car is simply off the road for non-claim reasons.
A replacement car keeps you mobile during a repair, which matters if you rely on your car for work, but the conditions and limits catch people out.
This guide explains when it applies, the limits, and how to use it.
What courtesy car cover is
Courtesy car or car hire cover provides a replacement vehicle while your insured car is being repaired after a covered claim. It is meant to keep you mobile, not to upgrade you, so the replacement is usually a basic vehicle in a set group, for a limited number of days tied to the repair time.
When you get a courtesy car
You typically get one when:
- You have the add on or it is included in your plan
- The claim is valid and approved
- You use an approved repairer (many insurers require this)
It usually starts when the car goes in for repair, not from the day of the accident, and ends when the repair is done or the day limit is reached.
Limits and conditions
Common limits include a maximum number of days (often tied to the repair), a specific vehicle category, and conditions like a valid licence and sometimes a deposit or fuel responsibility from you. Read the wording: for a total loss the car hire benefit may run only for a set period, not until you replace your car.
When it does not apply
How to use it
- Confirm the benefit is on your policy before you need it
- When you claim, ask the insurer to arrange the courtesy car
- Use an approved repairer if that is a condition
- Note the day limit and vehicle group
- Return the car on time to avoid extra charges
Knowing the limits upfront avoids being stranded when the days run out.
Frequently asked questions
What is a courtesy car?
A temporary replacement vehicle your insurer provides while your car is repaired after a valid claim. It keeps you mobile and is usually a basic car in a set group for a limited number of days.
Is a courtesy car automatic with car insurance?
Usually not. It is often an optional add on or part of certain plans, and frequently requires you to use an approved repairer. Check whether your policy includes it before you need it.
How long do I get a courtesy car for?
There is usually a maximum number of days, often tied to the repair time. For a total loss the benefit may run only for a set period rather than until you replace the car. Check your wording.
Do I need to use an approved repairer to get one?
Often yes. Many insurers only provide a courtesy car when you use an approved repairer. Using your own shop may forfeit the benefit, so confirm the condition first.
Does courtesy car cover apply if my car is written off?
It depends on the policy. Some provide car hire for a set period after a total loss, others only during a repair. Read the terms or ask your insurer how it treats write offs.
What are the conditions for a courtesy car?
A valid, approved claim, the benefit on your policy, often an approved repairer, a valid licence, and sometimes a deposit or fuel responsibility. There are limits on days and vehicle category.
Can I upgrade the courtesy car?
The replacement is usually a basic vehicle in a set group. Some insurers allow you to pay extra to upgrade, but the standard benefit is meant to keep you mobile, not to provide a like for like luxury car.
