A car rental can be an excellent way to see the sights and save money on taxi fares. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when renting a vehicle.
Many car rental companies offer loyalty programs that provide benefits such as discounts, promotions and upgrades. You can also get elite status by booking with a cobranded credit card.
Check the vehicle’s condition
Car rental is an industry where people Rent a Car Santa Cruz de Tenerife out their vehicles to other people for short periods. It’s similar to lodging marketplaces like Airbnb.
Rental companies often use technology in their vehicles to gather personal information. This could include locations, phone numbers and call and text logs. These data could be used for advertising and marketing purposes.
Trying to sell consumers additional insurance coverage, often unnecessarily duplicating coverage they already have, is one of the most common ways that rental car companies increase their profits. These fees are usually listed in the company’s general terms and conditions and region-specific terms and conditions.
Inspect the vehicle’s interior and exterior
It is essential to inspect the vehicle’s interior and exterior for any damage or defects. It is also a good idea to check the fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Low fluid levels may cause mechanical problems, so it is important to check them before renting a car.
Renters can ensure they are not held liable for pre-existing damages by running the car’s VIN through a recall search website before they drive off. This will help protect them from ambiguous situations where it’s not clear whether the damage was caused by the customer or by the company.
Inspect the vehicle’s fuel tank
Many rental companies have fuel policies like "Full to Full" or "Full to Empty". These fuel policies give the authorized driver the option of returning a vehicle with a full tank of gas, eliminating any additional refueling charges.
If your rental company has this policy, check the fuel tank to make sure it’s filled to the same level as when you picked up the car. Also, look for any damage to the fuel tank’s body or lid.
Inspect the vehicle’s tires
Visually examine the tires to look for any signs of damage. Pay special attention to the sidewalls and tread. If you notice bulges or bumps that feel softer than the rest of the tire, it could be an indication of tire separation and air entering between rubber layers.
Also, check the tread depth to make sure it is sufficient for safe driving on wet or snowy roads. If it is not, bring the vehicle in so that a certified technician can inspect it.
Inspect the vehicle’s brakes
A damaged rental car can cause serious injuries if you get involved in an accident. It can also expose you to health issues, such as carbon monoxide poisoning.
Before you drive away from the rental car company, take a minute to thoroughly inspect it. Make sure that all the scratches and dents are documented in writing.
Taking time-stamped photos and videos can help you defend against unfair damage claims. This way, the car rental company can see that you weren’t responsible for any pre-existing damage.
Inspect the vehicle’s windshield
A cracked windshield can be a real nuisance for car renters, especially if the rental company won’t cover it. Windshield repairs are typically covered by collision damage waivers, although the specific terms of a particular rental company’s policy can vary.
Drivers should always inspect their rentals before they drive off the lot. This can help them avoid problems like pits and chips that can turn into cracks, and it may also prevent them from failing inspection. This can be particularly important if a state requires safety inspections.
Inspect the vehicle’s seatbelts
Wearing seat belts, following traffic rules and securing belongings help to minimize any possible damage during a rental. Safe driving practices also help to maintain the vehicle’s condition.
A functional check will ensure that the engine, brakes, lights and other features work properly. It is important to document any pre-existing damages during this inspection, as it can protect you from unwarranted disputes later.
Time-stamped photographs and videos are ideal for providing transparent evidence. This will come in handy if you need to dispute any charges made against you by the car rental company.
Inspect the vehicle’s mirrors
Taking photos before and after inspecting the vehicle is a great way to document any damage. This will help you avoid responsibility for already existing damage when you return the car.
Security inspection mirrors are commonly used in schools, hospitals, and public events to inspect hard-to-see areas. They also aid in searches for contraband and threats.
A security inspection mirror is typically long and light to make it easier for security personnel to view the underside of vehicles. Some are even designed to fit the top of oversized vehicles like trucks.