How To Properly Check A Car Before Renting

Renting a car in Dubai has become common practice for many travelers. In many cases, this is convenient, even in an unfamiliar place.

So, you have arrived at the car rental office at the airport, train station, port, city centre or any other place, take your time. Check that you have the necessary documents and cards on hand. In most cases, you will need a driver's license, a bank card, a voucher confirming a car reservation, and a passport (sometimes, they are asked to show it, but more often, it is not needed).

At the company's office, you will be offered to sign a lease agreement, be sure to read it even if you are a complete layman in law and ask the manager if something is unclear. Usually, the scope of the contract allows you to do this, and its essence will show the real attitude of the car rental company towards its customers. After completing all the paperwork, receiving the key, the lease agreement, and, if necessary, the navigator, you can inspect the car by yourself.

Be sure to find out when and where you will need to return the car. What is the penalty for violating the deadline? Find out how much fuel should be in the tank at the time of return and the cleanliness of the returned car. Sometimes it is enough to return the vehicle without cleaning while some companies require a thorough wash.

Before loading your belongings into the car and using it, carefully inspect it. This inspection aims to identify faults, damage or missing items. Defects not fixed during the inspection are likely to cause claims to the rental company upon delivery of the car and a reason for claiming compensation for their elimination. That is why all the flaws must be fixed so that you will have no questions later.

First, check the number plate and  registration numbers with the contract data. Check the availability and validity of the insurance policy. Inspect the body for any defects: chips, dents and scratches. Carefully check the headlights, side mirrors and glass for cracks, glues and scuffs. Carefully inspect the interior of the car. Conduct inspections in good light. Take photos of all defects found and pictures of the vehicle from all sides.

A large number of minor damages found is a significant reason for requesting a replacement vehicle. Pay attention not only to substantial shortcomings, such as those that can reduce the safety of using a car, but also those that reduce comfort.

Do not be too lazy to inspect the trunk's contents; the car should have all the necessary tools and equipment for quick repairs on the road, a fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit. If anything is missing, double-check with the manager and ask him to provide all the tools. Also, check the availability of a spare tire, a jack, a pump and a set of tools. Check the condition of the wheels.

Take a little test drive. Start the car and check the operation of the engine, air conditioning, power windows, audio system and lighting devices. Turn on the vehicle ignition and check the status of the systems according to the indication on the dashboard.

Deficiencies that can be eliminated must be eliminated immediately; the rest that you are ready to accept must be fixed in the contract or the acceptance certificate. If something is missing in the car or you find any flaws, return it and inform the car rental agency manager. Only in this case, you are sure that there will be no disagreements between you and the company in the future.

Let's Hit The Road!

Before any trip, you should get a good night's sleep so that your head is clear, your movements are accurate, and your reaction is quick. Ideally, the driver should sleep at least 8 hours before a long journey.

Do not abuse any substance that is contraindicated while driving. Pay attention to weather conditions: rain, haze, and bright sun can make your way difficult - it is important to prepare and adjust your driving style. Lastly, do not forget to take your driving license and other documents with you.