What is a courtesy car?
A courtesy car is a temporary vehicle provided free of charge by one of Marshmallow's approved repairers while your car is being repaired after a valid claim.
You’ll usually receive a small manual hatchback (under 1200cc) such as a Fiat 500. This is intended to keep you mobile and is not a like-for-like replacement.
When am I eligible for a courtesy car?
You’ll be eligible for a courtesy car if:
You have the Courtesy Car add-on on your policy.
You've made a valid claim.
Your car is being repaired at one of Marshmallow’s approved garages.
A courtesy car is available at that garage.
When will I not get a courtesy car?
You won't be eligible for a courtesy car in these situations:
You don't have the Courtesy Car add-on on your policy.
You have not made a claim: e.g. you had a breakdown/your vehicle had a mechanical failure
You choose to use a garage not in our approved network
Your claim is for glass or windscreen damage only.
Your vehicle is stolen or considered beyond economic repair (a total loss).
Your vehicle failed its MOT and no claim has been made.
Marshmallow Plus customers: You will receive a courtesy car even for theft or total loss claim.
Courtesy cars for non-fault claims
If you’re in a non-fault accident, Marshmallow’s partner Winns may be able to offer a credit hire car if the third party doesn’t provide one. Winns will recover the costs from the other insurer.
📈 Summary of courtesy car eligibility
Situation | Courtesy Car Provided? |
Vehicle being repaired by our garage | ✅ Yes, if available |
Using your own garage | ❌ No |
Theft or total loss | ❌ No (✅ Yes if you have Marshmallow Plus, or Courtesy Car Upgrade add-on) |
Glass or windscreen claim only | ❌ No |
Failed MOT with no claim | ❌ No |