There are several fundamental precautions that should be taken as soon as you rent a car to not only guarantee a good experience, but also to deliver the car in good condition on your return. Checking the bodywork, as well as the fuel tank and the functionality of the mirrors are some of them.
By paying extra attention and knowing what to check in the car before you travel, you can prevent unwanted surprises when you return the model to the company. All rental companies are demanding when it comes to car care, and drivers need to pay extra attention before leaving the premises.
To ensure you have a smooth trip without any headaches, our team at Happy Tours has put together 3 essential precautions to take with your rental car, both when you pick it up and when you hand it in, check them out!
1. Check all the car's documentation
Before renting a car, it is essential to check the documents requested by the rental company. In general, these include your driver's license and social security number, as well as the requirement that the driver be 21 years old or over. With the documents in hand, you have even more security in making the request with the company, without having to worry about possible refusals.
When you pick up the vehicle, ask for all the documents relating to the car to make sure they are in order. If you notice any abnormalities, talk to the person in charge of the site and immediately request that it be changed to another model of your choice.
It is also essential to read the contract carefully before signing, as the document may contain important information, such as the conduct to be followed in the event of excess kilometers, adverse event reports and return rates.
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2. Do a general inspection and test drive the car at the rental company
It is essential to inspect the entire car before leaving the rental company. Make videos and take photos to record how the vehicle was in order to have greater protection against possible problems related to undue charges (for scratches that already existed, for example).
Check the accessories included, how the tires are, whether they are properly inflated and undamaged. Check the bodywork for scratches, that the headlights and bulbs work and that there are no dents in the hood. It is also important to check:
- Windshield operation;
- Presence and condition of the spare tire;
- If you have a jack, wheel wrench and triangle.
After completing this step, ask the rental company for a copy of the document to prove that the inspection has been carried out. With the document in hand, you don't have to worry about paying any extra money in the future.
3. Check the fuel and hygiene conditions when picking up and returning the car
When you get into the vehicle, check that the fuel tank is full. If it's half full or close to running out, talk to the person in charge of the location, as the rental company should deliver the car already filled up, avoiding stops by the driver.
At the time of return, rental companies require the vehicle to have a full tank, and what has been consumed and not replaced is up to the customer, who may be charged more than desired.
Don't forget to check the external and internal hygiene of the car, as this is an essential factor when returning the vehicle. If you notice mud on the bodywork after using it, you should take it to a car wash to clean it and then return it to the rental company.
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Benefits of having a checklist when renting a car
By taking care of your car, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about possible extra charges. With a checklist in hand, you'll have more confidence to drive and venture around the region you're staying in with comfort, safety, agility and more practicality.
The checklist makes sure the car is in perfect condition
By taking good care of your car and following the appropriate checklist, you can have a pleasant experience behind the wheel, enjoy your trip and record every moment with photos and videos without risking forgetting anything important.
What's more, with the checklist of steps to follow before and after renting a car with Happy Tours, you can be completely sure that the vehicle is in excellent condition and ready to leave the rental company.
No extra charges
Caring carefully for your car avoids extra charges when you return it to the rental company. And even if the unexpected happens, you can prove that possible stains and grooves were already present before you left.
When it comes to traveling, the only thing you have to worry about is the fun that the country has to offer, not the expenses related to the car. Therefore, by having the vehicle checked in full, you don't have to worry about fees that could hinder your travel experience.
More peace of mind when traveling
Inspecting your car avoids the constant worry about dirt, dents or windshields that don't work properly. After all, you've made recordings of the vehicle before you get in it and can prevent problems that could make the ride stressful and unpleasant.
Greater security thanks to insurance
Requiring car insurance to cover you against possible accidents is one of the greatest precautions when renting a car. No matter how careful you are with the car, problems can happen, such as it being hit on the side during an accident or even the glass being broken by a third party. Rental companies usually offer this protection to customers, as do some credit card companies.
The importance of answering all your questions before renting a car
Don't forget to talk to the rental company to ask all your questions about the car you're renting, including the type of fuel the vehicle consumes, so you don't have any doubts when you stop at a gas station to fill up, for example.
With Happy Tours USA you can choose the vehicle you want safely and with peace of mind, as all models are protected. You can also ask any questions you may have with your chosen rental company in person, and after the inspection, hit the road to discover your chosen destination with excellent comfort and safety. Try it out and rent your car with us!
