So you’ve hired the car, your bags are packed, the time is booked off work, and you’re ready to hit the road! It all sounds good, but remember you’re relying on a car you’re not used to - have you checked the tyres or coolant? Do you know where the basic controls are? Or how to pop the bonnet if you need to? It’s obvious stuff, but a few simple checks can save you from all sorts of safety issues and surprises on your journey.
Don’t assume everything’s perfect just because it’s a rental. Here’s a friendly 10 point checklist for your hire car:
Before you even leave the rental forecourt, have a walk around the car - and if you can, do it with one of the rental agents. Inspect the panels, bumpers and glass for dents, cracks, or scratches and make sure every mark is noted on the hire agreement before you set off. It’s also wise to take pictures of any existing damage, so that you’ve got some additional protection if this damage is later questioned. The same goes for the inside of the vehicle. Check the upholstery and dashboard for damage or stains and report them.
Starting your journey with a careful look means you won’t be blamed (or billed) for pre-existing issues.
Give the tyres a good once-over, and see if any of them are bulging or look under-inflated. Your hire company should have set the pressure, but it’s best to visually verify that none of the tyres are flat. At this point you can also have a gander to see if there are any cuts or nails in the tyre rubber.
Next up, inspect the tread depth. In the UK the legal minimum tread depth is 1.2mm, so do a simple 20p coin test. Pop a 20p between the tyre grooves - if you can see the outer band of the coin, the tread might be too low.
And finally, don’t forget the spare wheel or tyre repair kit. Or even whether a spare is provided. If there’s a spare - is it in good nick? If not - where’s the sealant/inflator kit? Plus a jack and wheel wrench for emergencies. These are things we’ll assume are present, but it’s best to check so you’re not stranded with a flat.
Find the bonnet catch, pop the hood, and have a quick look at all the essential fluids - definitely oil and coolant, but also brake fluid and power steering fluid if you can get to them. It’s an easy step to skip, especially if you’re not too au fait with an engine, but it’s something even hire cars fall victim to.
Check the engine oil level with the dipstick, and glance at the coolant reservoir to ensure it’s between minimum and maximum. While you’re at it, make sure the windscreen washer fluid is topped up for clear views on the road. Rental companies typically take care of this stuff, but it’s worth confirming nothing is dangerously low.
If you do spot low fluids or any leaks, notify the hire company before driving off - they should fix it or swap you to a different car. It’s better to address it now than risk a warning light or breakdown later.
It sounds silly, we know, but make sure you know where all the lights are and which buttons do what. Test them all before you set off, and have a friend or the rental agent help you check the headlights (both low and high beam), side lights, indicators, brake lights, rear lights, and don’t forget the hazard lights and reversing light.
It’s easy to assume everything’s working, but hire cars go through multiple drivers and a bulb could easily be out. Driving with a failed light is unsafe and can earn you a fine, which isn’t exactly the best way to start your holiday. So turn everything on, walk around the car, and ensure you’re not that driver.
If a bulb isn’t working, ask for it to be replaced or swap the vehicle. A two-minute light check can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Once you’re behind the wheel of your hire car, pay attention to how the brakes and steering feel. Test the brakes gently in the car park or on a quiet road: the car should stop smoothly and straight. Any squealing, grinding or pulling to one side is a red flag. Likewise, the steering should feel responsive (not loose or shaky). If you can, do a short test drive around the rental forecourt to listen for any odd noises from the engine or suspension.
Unfamiliar cars might feel different, but you shouldn’t ignore obvious warning signs. Also keep an eye on the dashboard for any warning lights when you brake or accelerate. If something doesn’t seem right (a brake warning light stays on or the car wobbles at speed) return to the hire office immediately and report it. It’s far better to switch to a safe car now than discover a serious issue 100 miles into your journey.
Obviously, visibility is key, so inspect the windscreen for any chips or cracks. In a hire car, you might assume the windscreen is fine, but even a small stone chip can grow into a large crack, especially if you’re going abroad where the temperature’s different. If you find any, notify the company so you won’t be held responsible, and so you can decide if you’re comfortable to proceed.
Check the side windows and mirrors as well - are they clean and undamaged? Now test the windshield wipers and washer jets. Brit weather is unpredictable, so you’ll want effective wipers when the rain inevitably hits. If the wiper blades smear or squeak badly, consider asking for new ones or a different car. A clear, crack-free windscreen with functional wipers will keep you safe and stress-free on the road.
There are two types of fuel policies, which are full-to-empty and full-to-full. Most UK rentals come with a full tank, and the company expects you to return it back full as well. Take a photo for your records, make sure the tank is actually full, and make a note of whether it’s a diesel or petrol vehicle. It’s obvious, yes, but if you’re used to a petrol car and hire one that takes diesel, you can really find yourself in a pickle.
If it’s a diesel, ask if the car uses AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid) - long trips might consume it, and the car may not start if it runs out. The likelihood is low on a short hire, but if you’re doing very high mileage, ask the company just in case.
Finally, glance over the dashboard for any warning lights. Ensure none are lit (besides perhaps the handbrake or seatbelt indicator). If the fuel gauge isn’t full or a warning light stays on, resolve it with the hire company straight away. Starting your journey with a correctly fuelled car and a clear dashboard will set you off on the right foot.
Every car has its quirks, so before you hit the road, get comfortable with your rental car’s controls. Adjust the driver’s seat and mirrors, locate the controls for the lights, indicators and wipers, and test that the air conditioning/heater and window demisters are working. If you plan on using the sat-nav or infotainment system, check those too and pair your phone while you’re stationary, ahead of fumbling on the move. If your hire car has them, check features like cruise control or parking sensors/cameras too. Make sure all seat belts click and retract properly for everyone on board.
Basically, press all the important buttons and switches so you know how they work and where to find them. If you’re renting an unfamiliar type of vehicle (maybe a hybrid or electric car), just ask the rental staff for a quick tutorial on starting, charging or any special features. They’d much rather show you now than have you stranded or confused later because you pretended to know it all.
Right, almost good to go! Now’s the time to collect and double-check all your paperwork: rental agreement, contact numbers, details of insurance, and any additional information.
It’s important that you make sure you actually understand what you’re covered for too. For example, many rental insurance policies don’t cover damage to tyres, windscreen, underside, or lost keys unless you have extra cover. Car hire excesses can also be extortionate (£1,000 isn’t unheard of!), so the hire desk will usually offer to sell you extra insurance to reduce it. However, this is usually cheaper to arrange separately - wink, wink - so bring those details along if you’ve got it.
Also, confirm the car comes with breakdown assistance and know who you need to call if the car breaks down or if you have an accident. Most reputable companies include 24/7 roadside cover, but get clarity on the process: do you call the hire company first, or a provided breakdown service directly? Save the number in your phone.
It’s also smart to ask if there are any restrictions - for example, some rentals might prohibit driving abroad or on unpaved roads without permission. Being clear on your coverage and having an emergency plan will help you avoid nasty surprises and charges during your trip.
Before you drive away, take a last moment to tie up any loose ends with the hire company. Here are some questions to consider:
Finally, trust your instincts about the car itself. If you noticed something concerning during your checks - don’t hesitate to ask the rental staff. They can confirm if it’s normal or provide a different vehicle. If you genuinely feel uncomfortable, request a replacement car. It’s not worth driving hundreds of miles in a motor you don’t trust.
And eventually, with all checks done and questions answered, you can set off with confidence, ready to enjoy your road trip without any unwelcome hiccups!
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