Budget car rental during repair with garage delivery. Get your 'Loss of Use' claim guide!

Car accidents are a headache! Especially for daily commuters who can't avoid the risks on the road. Whether it’s a minor scratch or a major repair, the biggest problem is "not having a car to use," making every trip a struggle. You might worry about the high cost of a daily self-drive rental, but if your car is in the shop for a month, a long-term rental is often a much more cost-effective solution.

Today, we’re here to ease your stress with our budget-friendly car rental service, delivered right to your garage. Most importantly, if you are not at fault, we’ll share expert tips on how to claim "Loss of Use" compensation. Let us turn your repair time into a hassle-free experience while ensuring you get the benefits you deserve.

Recommended Car Rental Services: Affordable and Reliable Support While Your Vehicle is Under Repair

First, let's understand: What exactly is a "Replacement Car Rental" service? This service (also known as Car During Repair Service) provides short-term rentals for vehicle owners who need to leave their personal cars at a service center or garage, whether for accident repairs or routine maintenance.

How does it differ from standard car rentals? The main advantage is the "Doorstep Delivery" service directly to the garage or service center, ensuring you can continue your day without delay. Furthermore, if you are the "not-at-fault" party in an accident, these rental companies often have a dedicated team to help prepare the necessary documents to claim the rental costs back from the other party’s insurance.

In Thailand, the pioneers of the "Replacement Car Rental" market are local companies known for their flexibility, such as ECOCAR rent-a-car (established around 2012) and Exclusive Car Rental. They have successfully filled the gap left by major brands by offering "No Credit Card Required" options and more affordable rates, making this service accessible to everyone.

Insurance Claims : " When You Are Not at Fault "

An insurance claim is the process of notifying the insurer about an accident or damage so they can investigate and cover expenses according to the policy—whether it’s repair costs, medical bills, or compensation. The core principle is to "restore you to your original position before the incident" without you bearing the full financial burden.

Step-by-Step Claim Process for the "Not-at-Fault" Party

1. Verify the Claim Form and Status: Ensure the officer marks you as "Not at Fault" and includes full details of the other party. Tip: Take photos of the scene before moving the vehicles.

2. Medical Care & Police Report: If there are injuries, use your Compulsory Motor Insurance (CTP/Por.Ror.Bor) first. A police report is essential as official evidence.

3. Vehicle Assessment & Repair: Take your car to a certified garage. Crucial: Always request a "Vehicle Intake Form" showing the exact date you dropped off the car. This marks the start date for your compensation claim.

4. Arrange a "Replacement Car": Contact a specialized rental service (like Exclusive Car Rental). Crucial: Keep the Rental Agreement and Receipts to prove actual expenses to the other party's insurer.

5. Follow-up & Pick-up: Inspect the repairs before signing. Crucial: Obtain a "Vehicle Release Form" stating the completion date to calculate the total days without a car.

6. Claiming for "Loss of Use": Submit your documents (Claim form, Intake/Release forms, Rental receipts) to the other party’s insurer. By law (OIC), the minimum rate for private cars is 500 THB/day. If your actual rental cost is higher, you can negotiate for a full refund based on your receipts.

Tips: Never lose your rental receipts! Having proof of a market-rate rental helps you negotiate a fair and higher settlement.

What is the difference between an Insurance Claim for a Rental Car vs. a Private Car?

Why Choose a Replacement Car Rental?

It’s not just about comfort ; it’s about " Time " and " Opportunity. "

• Daily Life : Your life doesn't stop just because your car is in the shop. Whether it’s commuting to work, doing the school run, or grocery shopping—without a car, these tasks become 2-3 times more difficult and time-consuming.

• Privacy and Safety : Having a "Private Space" for travel means you don’t have to deal with crowded public transport or wait in line for buses, avoiding health risks and unpredictable weather like scorching sun or heavy rain.

• Professional Needs : It is also essential for certain professions, such as Influencers, who need a private vehicle for outfits changes between jobs and to ensure the highest level of personal safety and security.

Benefits of Replacement Car Rental

1. Financial Value If you are not at fault, you can claim the rental cost back from the other party's insurance as "Loss of Use" compensation.

• Highlight: By renting a car at a rate similar to the compensation (e.g., renting an Eco Car for 800-900 THB while receiving 500-1,000 THB in claims), you essentially get a car for free or at a minimal cost. This is much better than paying for taxis or ride-hailing apps, which are harder to claim and often lack clear official receipts.

2. Delivery to the Garage Specialized rental companies offer a "Meet & Greet" service.

• Highlight: You can schedule the rental car delivery right at the garage when you drop off your own car. When the repair is finished, simply drive the rental car to the garage, return it, and drive your own car home. No more multiple trips back and forth!

3. Time Management Efficiency Public transport has many unpredictable variables like delays, crowds, or unavailability during rush hours.

• Highlight: Having a rental car parked at home allows you to manage your schedule as accurately as using your own car. You don't need to waste an extra 1-2 hours daily on commuting.

4. Well-Maintained and Safe Vehicles Most replacement cars are newer models (2024-2026) with regular maintenance records.

• Highlight: You get a clean, ready-to-use vehicle equipped with modern safety technology. No need to worry about breakdowns like you might with poorly maintained cars.

5. Stress Reduction and Professional Image Not having a car can cause exhaustion from travel or negatively impact your business image.

• Highlight: Driving to work or meeting clients maintains your professional appearance. It also reduces the frustration of public transport that you cannot control.

Simplest Booking Process

Car Repair Booking Process

1. First Contact The first step is deciding where to repair. Most people choose an "In-network Garage" (Contracted Garage) for easier price control and insurance approval.

• What to do: Call or message the garage to check their availability.

• Advice: Ask them: "Do you accept insurance from [Company Name]?" and "When is your earliest opening for repairs?" to help you decide.

2. Submit Documents Sending documents in advance allows the garage to assess the damage and order parts beforehand. You will need:

• Claim Form: The document (yellow paper or digital file) provided by your insurance officer.

• ID Card: To verify the vehicle owner’s identity.

• Driving License: To confirm your legal driving status at the time of the accident.

• Tip: Nowadays, most people send these via Line for speed and clear record-keeping.

3. Schedule the Drop-off Once the garage verifies your documents and parts, they will schedule a date for you to bring in the car.

• Preparation: Remove all valuables from the car and check the fuel level.

• At the Garage: You will sign a Vehicle Intake Form, which documents existing scratches around the car and provides an estimated completion date.

4. Pick up at the Garage When the repair is finished, the garage will notify you.

• Inspection: Don't rush! Check if the paint matches perfectly, doors close smoothly, and the overall repair work is neat.

• Completion: Sign the release form and drive home with peace of mind.

Public Transport vs. Replacement Car Rental

Choose " Public Transport " if

• The repair takes only a few days (3–5 days).

• Your workplace is easily accessible by BTS/MRT.

• You prefer to keep the "Loss of Use" compensation as a lump sum of cash to ease your mind.

Choose " Car Rental " if

• You have a "School Run" (need to drop off or pick up kids).

• You carry heavy gear, like multiple laptops or bags.

• You live deep in a "Soi" or a remote area where calling a taxi is difficult. The convenience is well worth the cost.

For those who rely on their cars for work or live in high-traffic areas like Bangkok and Samut Prakan, accidents can feel almost unavoidable. That’s why knowing how to handle the aftermath is crucial. Don’t let one car accident disrupt your entire life or leave you with skyrocketing travel expenses.

Choose a Replacement Car Rental service that truly understands drivers. We offer affordable rates, direct delivery to your garage, and professional assistance with "Loss of Use" compensation paperwork. Make sure that this time, you don't lose out on the benefits you deserve.