subject: Things That Could Crop Up When Renting A Car [print this page] If you are planning to rent a car, make sure that you choose a reliable company along with a reliable car prior to signing anything and driving away in it. Many rental car customers think that the vehicle an agency pulls aside for them is the one they must accept when renting. Any time you get to an agency and think that there is something wrong with the car you've been assigned, you do not have to accept it.
Until you sign that paperwork you are under no obligation to take that car and while many companies will try to tell you that you must take that vehicle they will usually offer you a different one if you put up too much of a stink. So what might make you want a different vehicle?
When you get to the agency, take a close look at the car before signing any kind of agreement. In fact, keep the agreement in your hands. Be sure that every single spot or damaged area on the car is reflected in the car's report before taking it. Make note of anything not already listed. If you get a car with more than just some dents, don't hesitate to inquire about getting a different car.
Any car that has been in an accident, even what seems to be a slight fender bender may actually have other damage that has not been identified like a twisted frame or slow leak and over time these could be hazards to you and your family.
Always insist that you see the maintenance records for the vehicle that you are renting as well. Vehicle maintenance is an important part of keeping a vehicle in good running order and therefore if it hasn't been looked at by the shop mechanic recently it is a good idea to ask for a rental that has. These are less apt to have problems when they are out on the road.
A car that has any kind of parts that are not operating properly is a car you should avoid. Sit in the car and test it out to make sure everything is in working order. Test out the horn, the blinkers, the headlights, and the switches in the car. Open the hood and a take a look at the fluids in there to ensure that they are filled up enough. There is no reason why you can't do these simple inspections. Because safety is so important, you should never sign any paperwork until you are confident in the vehicle that you will be driving.
