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What is the courtesy car upgrade add-on and how does it work?

For Marshmallow policyholders who want to understand the Courtesy Car Upgrade add-on.

Updated over a week ago

What is the Courtesy Car Upgrade?

The Courtesy Car Upgrade is an optional add-on that guarantees a rental car if your vehicle becomes undrivable due to certain types of insurance claims. It is especially useful if you're left without a car following an incident.

  • It is included automatically with the Plus plan.

  • For all other plans (e.g. Essential, Lightest), you can purchase it separately for £21.99.


When will I receive a courtesy car?

You’ll receive a courtesy car within 24 hours after your claim is validated by Sparta Group, our claims partner.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Submit your claim.

  2. Once validated, contact Sparta directly.

  3. Sparta arranges the courtesy car delivery.

Sparta Contact Info: 0330 113 0003


What type of courtesy car will I get?

  • You'll receive a Class A car, typically a micro car like a SMART car or a city commuter vehicle.

  • If you have an automatic-only licence, you’ll get an automatic vehicle.

When am I eligible for a courtesy car?

Courtesy car is provided if:

Courtesy car is not provided if:

Your car is undrivable due to theft, arson, or vandalism

The claim involves only windscreen or glass damage

Your car is stolen

The repair is done at a non-approved garage

Your car is a total loss after a road accident

The car is repairable after an accident but still drivable

Your car is beyond economic repair

Courtesy cars are only insured when arranged through Marshmallow’s approved repair network. Any vehicle sourced outside of this will not be insured.


How do I remove the add-on?

Your need to speak to our friendly customer support team to remove the add-on.

Fees for removing the add-on:

Time of removal

Fee Information

Within 14 days of purchase

No admin fee

After 14 days (no claim made)

£15 cancellation fee (deducted from refund)

If you have Essential or Lightest

£25 admin fee applies

If add-on has been used

No refund available

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