Before you drive off in a rental car, it undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure your safety and satisfaction. Rental companies follow a detailed checklist to identify any existing damage or mechanical issues. This article outlines the typical checks performed by rental companies before and after each rental period.
**Exterior Checks:**
The exterior inspection covers all visible parts of the vehicle, including:
* **Windshields:** Front and rear windshields are checked for cracks, chips, or other damage.
* **Windows:** All windows, including door and fixed windows, are inspected for cracks or chips.
* **Lights:** Headlights, taillights, and indicators are tested to ensure they are functioning correctly. This includes side indicators, if equipped.
* **Mirrors:** Driver and passenger side mirrors are checked for damage and proper adjustment.
* **Body:** The roof, hood, trunk lid, doors, front and rear bumpers are examined for dents, scratches, or other damage.
* **Tires:** Each tire, including the spare tire, is inspected for tread depth, wear, and damage. Tire pressure is also checked.
* **Wheels:** Wheel trims or alloy wheels are checked for damage.
* **Antenna:** The antenna is checked for damage or breakage.
**Interior Checks:**
The interior inspection covers the following:
* **Entertainment System:** The radio or CD player is tested to ensure it is working correctly.
* **Upholstery:** Carpets, headlining, floor mats, and seats are inspected for stains, tears, or damage.
* **Parcel Shelf:** If equipped, the parcel shelf is checked for damage.
* **Door Panels:** Door trims or panels are checked for damage.
* **Dashboard:** The dashboard is inspected for damage and all gauges are tested.
* **Accessories:** Tool kit, car jack, driver’s handbook, cup holders and navigation systems, if equipped, are checked for presence and functionality.
**Your Own Inspection:**
Before leaving the rental lot, conduct your own inspection of the vehicle. Carefully examine the interior and exterior for any pre-existing damage and bring it to the attention of the rental company representative. Ensure that any damage is documented in writing to avoid being held responsible for it later.
**Fuel and Transmission:**
The rental company representative will inform you about the fuel type required for the vehicle (petrol or diesel). Note that some companies provide a full tank of fuel at the start of the rental, requiring you to return the vehicle with a full tank. Inquire about the rental company’s fuel policy to avoid additional charges.
When booking, specify your preference for automatic or manual transmission. Automatic transmissions are more common in luxury vehicles.
**Insurance Coverage:**
Clarify the extent of insurance coverage provided with the rental. Standard insurance policies may not cover damage to wheel trims, alloy wheels, tires, glass, or the antenna. Accidental or negligent damage is also typically excluded. You will be charged for any cigarette burns.
**Returning the Vehicle:**
Return the vehicle in a reasonably clean condition to avoid cleaning fees. After cleaning, the rental company will inspect the vehicle for any new damage and assess charges accordingly.