How to check a hire car

You are confident in your choice of car rental company. You know the paperwork and checks required and the location to pick up the car but being prepared for your return trip can be very beneficial too. Follow these steps to have a stress-free and smooth rental experience, right up until the time you return the keys.

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  1. Make sure the car is in good shape

The general wear and tear of a car will be noticeable. The car will get scuffs, scratches, and minor dents. The documents you receive when you pick up your car should have a record of the damage.

Take photos of any damage to the vehicle and check these records. Bring any damage that is not on the list to the staff’s attention. Before you drive away, make sure this has been recorded on both your documents and the staff’s records.

You should also take photos or videos of the following to be sure you are 100% thorough:

  • The car’s front, back and sides
  • The lights
  • Windscreen
  • Tyres
  • Interior, including fuel gauge and mileage indicators

Ask a member of staff to move the vehicle under a streetlight or to use a flashlight to inspect the vehicle if it is dark. All photographic evidence should be kept for at least a week. To find out about Car Hire Excess Insurance, visit https://www.moneymaxim.co.uk/car-hire-excess-insurance

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This is a good thing to do. Your diligence will be appreciated by a reputable company as it shows that you want to return the vehicle in the same condition.

It is natural to be excited about our trip or vacation. Arriving early and giving ourselves enough time to perform these checks can help us avoid future problems.