Whether you’re renting a car for a few hours or a week, there are some mistakes you should avoid making. In this article, you’ll learn how to avoid some of the most common rental car mistakes. These mistakes can cost you a lot if you are not careful, so it is better to stay prepared in advance.
Mistake #1: Not Taking Photos Of The Car Before Renting It
Taking pictures of the vehicle before renting it is a good idea. The right images can help to mitigate any conflicts that may arise. This factor is especially true for cases where you are abroad. It can cost you a fortune to replace or repair certain car parts. The right pictures can help you establish the vehicle’s condition before and after your rental.
One way to help identify the car you are renting is to take a photo of the car’s dashboard. Take a picture of the car’s fuel level, which will prove helpful if the rental car business tries to charge you for something that isn’t your fault falsely. The best way to take pictures of the car before renting it is through your mobile phone. You can email photos or videos of the car’s dashboard and quickly forward the documents to your insurance carrier or personal account. Taking pictures of the vehicle before renting it is also a good idea because it can help you to know the car’s condition.
Mistake #2: Not Inspecting The Car Thoroughly
Taking the time to inspect the car thoroughly when renting a car is a good decision. You’ll want to ensure it’s in good working order before driving away. There are several elements to look for when inspecting the car. These include warning signs of problems with the engine, tires, and brakes. You also want to check the dashboard for the right lights, a malfunctioning signal, and other warning signs.
In addition, you’ll want to make sure the gas tank is complete before you leave the rental lot. The gas tank is present on the right side of the car. Aside from the obvious, you’ll want to test the air conditioning. A working air conditioner is a must for rental vehicles. You’ll want to check for leaks, make sure the vents are open and adjust the vents to your liking. Companies like Inspektlabs now offer digital vehicle inspections that let users conduct car inspections through their smartphones. There are many advantages to conducting these inspections before and after the rental period because they establish an accurate and undisputable record of the vehicle’s condition. These car inspections also give drivers peace of mind since they can determine whether the vehicle is in safe working condition.
Mistake #3: Not Checking The VIN
Whether buying or renting a car, you need to check the VIN. This information can help determine a car’s history, as well as its value. You can use the VIN to see whether your chosen car has been involved in significant accidents or has had any recent repairs, and it can also confirm if someone stole the vehicle.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers a free VIN decoder tool. It is a reputable website that provides comprehensive vehicle history information. You may also wish to check the VIN of your car before you purchase it. A good VIN decoder tool will show you not only the vehicle’s mileage but also the type of engine, the vehicle’s airbag type, and the trim level.
Mistake #4: Not Getting Insurance
Whether you’re renting a car for a few days or months, you must understand what type of coverage you need. If you aren’t sure, you can always ask your insurance agent. Many insurance companies will provide additional coverage to fill in the gaps left by your standard auto policy. However, it’s crucial to understand how insurance coverage works and how much you should pay.
There are different types of insurance sold by rental car companies. Each is available for a fee. You can choose to pay for each or to combine them. You’ll pay a lower daily rate if you choose to combine coverage. This way, you’ll have more rental reimbursement if you get into a car accident. Most car insurance companies offer a daily rate that includes a certain amount of protection. For example, you might have insurance coverage with a per-claim limit of up to $900.
Conclusion
These tips can help you a lot while you are on the road. Many renters claim that they face issues while renting cars. However, if you exercise caution and avoid these mistakes, you will not face any adverse consequences. Being mindful of these factors can help you avoid a lot of hassle in the future and drastically improve your car renting experience.
