These days a rental car is no longer just for those traveling on business. Just about anyone can rent a car for one reason or another. Most people, however, rent a car for these reasons:

  • It’s convenient, especially for those taking a business trip, for salespeople taking clients or prospective clients to job sites or out to dinner/lunch, etc.
  • It’s a wise move to keep the mileage low and minimize the need for repairs on their car.
  • It’s the most logical thing to do when one’s car is temporarily unavailable due to necessary repairs.

For sure, there are more unique reasons from one individual to the next; but regardless of what your reasons are, just make sure to keep the following in mind when renting a car:

1. Credit card hold

You will likely be asked for your credit card information when booking a rental car. The rental company may either put an authorization hold on your card or charge you a security deposit, which will both disappear upon return of the vehicle in the same condition as when you got it. Because the security deposit counts against your credit limit, be sure to factor the amount in when you use your card for other purchases.

2. Collision coverage

Your rental company will likely offer you collision insurance for an extra fee. Whether or not you go for it depends on whether you are already covered. This specific insurance is also offered by some credit card companies, typically covering collision damage on rentals of up to 30 days. Your car insurance itself may also extend coverage to rentals.

3. Hidden fees

Online car rental bookings are the norm these days. However, online transactions also make it easy for rental companies to add extra fees or sell you additional products if they are inclined to do so. To avoid shelling out extra dollars, take a printout of your booking agreement when you collect your car. This helps ensure you pay exactly the original amount calculated during booking. Don’t be surprised if you’re charged an underage fee, though, if you’re under 25!

4. Driving restrictions

Find out whether your rental car comes with restrictions on driving across state lines or into another country. Other than that, some companies also restrict use of the car on unpaved roads. If your rental comes with these restrictions, know that it will likely be fitted with a tracking device. To be safe, forget about going against these restrictions.

5. Previous damage

No matter how big of a hurry you’re in, don’t drive off the car rental lot without first checking the condition of your rental car. Make sure there are no existing damages (e.g., windshield cracks/dents or scratches on the body) that are not noted in your contract. You definitely don’t want to be blamed and charged for any existing damage.

6. Maintenance issues

For your peace of mind, you can always request to see your rental car’s maintenance report, especially if you observe signs of wear and tear. You can also do the following before driving away: run the air-conditioning, gauge the fluid levels, and check the air in the tires.

7. Fuel

Make sure your car runs on gasoline. If you’re traveling to Europe and getting a rental, be aware that cars often run on diesel over there. Be sure to ask your agent such pertinent questions as to where you can find the gas release or how to pump gas. To avoid paying a fine, return the car with the required amount of fuel, which would typically be three-quarters of a tank.

8. Operating the car

Avoid unnecessary headaches or scares caused by your inadequate knowledge of how your rental car works. Unless you’re familiar with your rental car’s model, don’t drive away without first making sure you know how to operate the windshield wipers, headlights, the GPS system, the trunk release, etc. For extra peace of mind, make sure the car comes with a copy of the owner’s manual as well as contact information for the rental agency in case you encounter problems and need them to advise you on what to do.

9. Spare keys

Make sure you have a set of spare keys, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area you will be driving in. The good news is car rental companies will typically have no problem giving you a spare set of keys.

10. Returning the car

Before returning your rental car, be sure it’s free of trash, dirt or mud, and crumbs. You may be charged extra if the car is less clean than when you got it. You should also make sure that you haven’t left anything behind, as tracking items left-behind or misplaced items can get tricky sometimes.

While we’re talking rental cars, you may want to take advantage of EverCare Protection’s rental car reimbursement on covered repairs if your car is in the shop.

For easier tracking of your things, especially if you’re not traveling light, you can also get our EverKey (Key/Tile) products.

Explore your options with EverCare today if you’re traveling and getting a rental car in the next few days.

If you’re looking for great savings when it comes to repairs for your own car if your manufacturer’s warranty is running out soon, one of our products may just suit your needs.