Check A Rental Vehicle For Safety Before You Leave The Lot

Introduction

When renting a vehicle, it’s important to ensure that it is safe and roadworthy. This will not only help prevent accidents but also save you from unnecessary expenses. In this article, we’ll take you through the essential safety checks to perform before leaving the rental lot.

Exterior Inspection

The first step is to inspect the exterior of the rental vehicle. Check for any visible damage, such as scratches, dents, or cracks. Make sure to document any damage by taking pictures or videos with your phone. This will help you avoid being held responsible for any pre-existing damage.

Tires

Check the condition of the tires, including the pressure and tread depth. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. Make sure the tire pressure matches the manufacturer’s recommendations, which you can find in the owner’s manual.

Lights and Indicators

Check all the lights and indicators, including the headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights. Make sure they are all functioning correctly.

Windshield and Wipers

Inspect the windshield for any chips or cracks. If you notice any damage, inform the rental company immediately. Check the wipers to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Interior Inspection

After completing the exterior inspection, it’s time to check the interior of the rental vehicle.

Seats and Seatbelts

Make sure the seats are comfortable and adjustable to your liking. Check the seatbelts to ensure they are functioning correctly and are not damaged.

Mirrors

Adjust the mirrors to your liking and ensure they are clean and free from cracks.

Dashboard Indicators

Check the dashboard indicators for any warning lights, such as the check engine light or low fuel warning. If you notice any warning lights, inform the rental company immediately.

Air Conditioning and Heating

Test the air conditioning and heating to ensure they are functioning correctly. This is particularly important if you’re renting a vehicle in extreme weather conditions.

Test Drive

Before leaving the rental lot, take the vehicle for a test drive. This will help you get a feel for the vehicle and ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Brakes

Test the brakes to ensure they are responsive and not making any strange noises.

Acceleration and Steering

Test the acceleration and steering to ensure they are smooth and responsive. If you notice any issues, inform the rental company immediately.

Conclusion

Performing these safety checks before leaving the rental lot will help ensure your safety on the road and save you from unnecessary expenses. Make sure to document any pre-existing damage and inform the rental company immediately if you notice any issues.

FAQs

What should I do if I notice damage after leaving the rental lot?

If you notice any new damage after leaving the rental lot, inform the rental company immediately. They may ask for documentation, such as pictures or videos, to prove that the damage was not caused by you.

What should I do if I notice an issue while driving the rental vehicle?

If you notice any issue while driving the rental vehicle, such as strange noises or warning lights, pull over to a safe location and inform the rental company immediately. They may advise you on the best course of action.

What should I do if I get into an accident while driving the rental vehicle?

If you get into an accident while driving the rental vehicle, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. Call the emergency services if necessary. Inform the rental company immediately and follow their instructions on how to proceed.