The replacement vehicle, also known as a courtesy car, is an increasingly common tool in dealerships as part of after-sales service. However, its use has tax and accounting implications that must be managed correctly to avoid problems with the tax authority and to take advantage of the available tax benefits.

What is considered a replacement or courtesy vehicle?

This is a car that the dealership makes available to the customer temporarily while their vehicle is being repaired, inspected or maintained. It can be offered:

• Free of charge, as part of the service or a marketing initiative.

• For payment, as rental or a billable additional service.

For it to be tax valid, it is recommended to:

• Have a signed contract specifying temporary use.

• Limit use to customers with active services.

• Have insurance and vehicle documentation.

• Keep an internal record of handovers.

This type of vehicle is usually identified in the dealership and used exclusively for customers, which reinforces its assignment to the economic activity.

Tax treatment of the replacement vehicle

Is the VAT on the replacement vehicle deductible?

According to Spanish law, VAT incurred on the acquisition of a vehicle is only deductible if its exclusive use for the economic activity is demonstrated.

In the case of a courtesy car:

• If it is clearly assigned to after-sales service, 100% of the VAT may be deducted.

• It is advisable to keep a handover log, signed contracts and justify that it is not used for personal purposes.

Additionally, in the event of an inspection, it is essential to demonstrate that the vehicle has not been used by employees or management for personal journeys or trips unrelated to the business.

Depreciation of the vehicle

The cost of the vehicle can be depreciated like any other item of property, plant and equipment:

• Its value is recorded as a fixed asset.

• Annual depreciation is applied (around 16% if it is a passenger car, according to tax tables).

• It must remain in use for several years, not for immediate resale.

In the event of periodic replacement of the courtesy vehicle, it must be properly derecognised in the accounts and the outstanding depreciation adjusted.

Deductible expense in Corporation Tax

All expenses derived from the use of the vehicle (inspections, repairs, insurance, fuel, etc.) are deductible if its professional use is justified.

The proportional part of common expenses may also be deducted (for example, fleet insurance or shared maintenance) if the vehicle is part of a fleet.

What changes if the vehicle is offered free of charge or charged for?

Free

• It is considered part of customer service, as a loyalty or experience-improvement initiative.

• It is not invoiced to the customer, but it is important to keep written evidence.

• For tax purposes, it can still be deductible as long as its business use is proven.

• In the event of an inspection, the free handover must be documented and linked to a specific repair.

For a fee

• An invoice with VAT must be issued.

• The income is taxed like any other service.

• It may have implications as a rental activity, so it is advisable to define this clearly with the tax adviser.

• If it is rented frequently, the tax authority could consider that there is a different economic activity (vehicle rental), which would entail new obligations.

Accounting treatment of the replacement vehicle

Initial recognition of the vehicle in the accounts

It is recorded in the property, plant and equipment account (generally 218 "Transport equipment"):

Annual depreciation entry

This entry should be made periodically (usually annually) and can be scheduled for each accounting year-end.

If invoiced to the customer

This entry reflects income from the replacement service, applying the corresponding VAT rate (21%).

Best practices to avoid problems with the tax authority

• Sign a contract each time the vehicle is handed over.

• Control internal use to prevent personal use.

• Keep a separate accounting record if there are several uses (sale, rental, replacement).

• Keep clear documentation for 4 years.

• Use the correct accounting classification of the asset.

• Consult the tax adviser if the use or billing model changes.

Additionally, it is advisable to review the accounting and tax treatment of the vehicle annually in the internal audit or with external advisers.

Conclusion

Offering a replacement vehicle can be a great added value for your dealership, but it also entails tax and accounting obligations. The key is to justify its professional use, keep everything documented and consult your accounting adviser to adapt the treatment to your business model.

When managed correctly, this type of vehicle not only improves the customer experience, but can also optimise the dealership's tax position.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is VAT on the replacement car deductible?

Yes, provided that its exclusive use for the business activity can be justified and it is properly documented.

Do I have to invoice the replacement car if I offer it free of charge?

No, but it is advisable to keep contractual evidence of the free service.

What accounting entry is used for depreciation of the courtesy vehicle?

The standard depreciation entry for property, plant and equipment is used, with accounts 681 and 281.

Is the vehicle expense deductible if the customer is not charged?

Yes, if it is justified as part of the dealership's after-sales service.