Sarah Schachterle - HERLIFE Magazine

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travel Car Rental Safety By Candi Smith I had a great rental car experience when my sons and I were in California, headed to Disneyland. We went from the airport to the rental car portal, only to find out they had no compact cars left (even though I’d made a reservation). As the manager watched my patience quickly waning, he wisely upgraded me to a convertible at no extra charge. I’m sure the Orange County natives thought we were crazy driving in December with the top down. But for a few days, we were living large! Unfortunately, there are also many rental car horror stories. Amongst the worst of these involve clunkers that have no business being on the road, much less rented to travelers on unfamiliar turf. As a consumer, what can you do to ensure that your next trip doesn’t end up possibly becoming your last? Pat Goss, automotive master technician and expert contributor to The Washington Post, explains that it’s extremely important to inspect the rental vehicle you’ll be driving. Here’s his checklist of essential items to complete before you rent a car: Before you get to the rental car location, talk with your personal insurance agent. Many times, your individual policy will also cover your rental car. Having this knowledge beforehand will keep you from buying the overinflated insurance coverage the rental car agent will try to peddle you at the counter. Find out if your private insurance also covers roadside assistance. Most reputable companies, such as AAA, also provide coverage for your rental vehicles. Keep a small flashlight in your purse or carry-on bag. This will come in handy if you’re dropping off your rental car after dark. Now is a good time to learn how to check your car’s fluid levels—oil, transmission, brake, antifreeze, windshield wiper and power steering. The Owner’s Manual will walk you through each of these processes. After you’ve done it a few times, you should be able to do the job in about five minutes. Once you get to the counter, don’t be timid about asking questions. Have the agent provide proof that the car has been recently inspected, serviced and is ready for the road. This includes oil changes and tire rotations. As harmless as these areas might seem, a car will be dead on the road with a head 44 HERLIFEmagazine.com
gasket or tire that has blown. If your agent can’t provide this basic information, ask the manager. If the manager can’t provide it, walk away. Take this opportunity to ask “worst case scenario” questions such as “What happens if the car breaks down?” or “What if I lose the key?” You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere at midnight, finding out there are no answers for these inquiries. Once you’ve completed your paperwork, ask for a few paper towels and proceed to the vehicle. Make an obvious inspection of the exterior and interior from front to back. Remember, once you drive it off the rental car lot, you will be held responsible for any undocumented damages. Check for tire wear and tear. If they appear threadbare or unevenly worn, this might indicate problems with alignment or balance. Insist upon another vehicle if you see obvious tire problems. Make sure all the bells and whistles work. This includes interior and exterior lights, blinkers, wipers (including sprayer), door locks, gas and truck latches, and seat belts. Look for a spare tire and jack in case you need to make a change. Refer to the Owner’s Manual (which should be in the Make sure all the bells and whistles work. This includes interior and exterior lights, blinkers, wipers (including sprayer), door locks, gas and truck latches, and seat belts. vehicle) for special instructions, if applicable. Now, using the paper towels you requested, do a quick check of the car’s fluid levels. Since you’ve taught yourself how to do it on your own car, doing it on the rental should be a snap. Again, refer to the Owner’s Manual if you need instructions. Familiarize yourself with the car. Turn on the headlights, switching from low to high beams. Fasten the seat belt. Adjust the driver’s seat and mirrors. Find the hazard lights, and turn them on and off. A small but important area to notice is the car’s cleanliness and smell. If it’s not up to your standards, request another one. A dirty vehicle might also indicate a lack of upkeep. Take the vehicle for a spin in the parking lot. Make sure that it handles well, isn’t belching smoke, doesn’t make strange noises, stops when you put on the brakes, and goes when you press the accelerator. If you are uncomfortable with any of these areas, request another vehicle. And start the inspection process again! Be sure to put yourself in the driver’s seat by following this rental car checklist before you hit the open road. HERLIFE wants you to arrive alive! STAY CONNECTED. www.herlifemagazine.com HERLIFEmagazine.com 45
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Sarah Schachterle - HERLIFE Magazine

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