Car Rental Checklist

Before You Rent a Car

• Talk to your insurance agent to verify what coverage you have when renting a car.
• Talk to your road service provider to see if they cover service calls on rental cars.
• Tuck a small flashlight into your carry-on bag.

At the Rental Car Counter

• Ask the representative how they know the car you're renting has completed its prerental maintenance check.
• Ask the representative what to do if the car breaks down.
• Ask the representative what will happen if you lose the car key.
• Ask for any phone numbers to call should the car get stuck or break down.

At the Car

• Take a walk around ; ensure there's no obvious damage.
• Make sure the license plates are current.
• Look at the tires for inflation, good tread, and even tread wear.
• Get in and check the cleanliness and smell of the car.
• Check the odometer.
• Check the lights.
• Spray the windshield to ensure that the washer system works and the wipers are in good shape.
• Ensure that there's an owners manual in the glove box.
• Do under-hood and under-trunk inspections.
• Check the trunk for a spare tire, jack and lug wrench.
• Open the hood and check the fluids.
• Get in and familiarize yourself with the cockpit.
• Adjust the seats and mirrors.
• Drive the car inside the rental lot before taking to the open road.

When You Drop Off the Car

• Check mileage.
• Check gas gauge.
• Locate your cell phone, eyeglasses, wallet, and briefcase.
• Check on and under front and back seats.
• Check the trunk.
• Check glove and storage compartments.
• Inspect the car for damage.