Car Rental Tips

Top 10 tips for a problem-free car rental

The following are to be used as helpful tips for renting an automobile. Be sure you look closely at the responsibilities of the renter and the rental agency.

1. Choose a rental company based on vehicle availability, rates and service - Compare rates based on the type of vehicle you want (compact, mid-size, truck, SUV, etc.) and the dates of the rental. If you desire a specific model of car, check for its availability, but also make sure the company offers good services, including roadside assistance.
2. Make reservations early - Reservations for car rentals should be made at least one week in advance. Rates seem to increase as booking goes up, so making a reservation before the holiday rush may save you money. Also ask about cancellation policies.

3. Insurance - If you're booking a car for a couple of days, the agency's insurance policy is probably a good idea - read over any documents carefully. If you're renting for a long time, this insurance may get too expensive. Most auto insurance policies already cover rentals, so if you have one, you may not have to worry about purchasing insurance from the rental company..
4. Put ALL drivers on rental contract - Make sure that anyone who may end up driving the car is on the contract, or the insurance coverage may be jeopardized.
5. Inspect vehicle - Thoroughly inspect the rental car before you leave the lot, since you are responsible for any damage during the rental period. Make sure any preexisting damage is noted in the contract. For extra protection, take pictures of any preexisting damage.
6. Refueling - Rental companies offer an option of either prepaying for a tank of gas and returning it empty to the dealer, or refilling the tank yourself. Obviously, if you'll be using less than a tank of gas, don't do the prepay option.
7. Breakdowns - Be sure the rental agency provides roadside assistance as part of your contract for consumer safety. You don't want to be charged with hidden towing fees should the car breakdown.
8. Damage - If the rental car is involved in an accident, the rental company will want you to file an accident report and obtain a police report - read the details of your contract carefully so you know what you're responsible for.
9. Follow the contract - Stick to the restrictions on your contract, such as mileage limits. If you don't follow the contract you risk voiding the insurance policies, should anything happen to the car. It could also complicate your own car insurance as well.
10. Return the vehicle on time - Return the vehicle before or on time, or you could be hit with expensive, hidden late fees.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

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