How to avoid getting ripped off when renting a car

So your car is in the shop and you need to rent a car but want to avoid getting ripped off and feel taken advantage of when renting a car? Do you know what to look for when renting a car?

Things You'll Need

• Internet
• Patience
• Credit Card
• Work order from mechanic

Instructions

1. 

   Go on the internet and using your search engine of preference look up car rentals. Be sure to go to reputable sites that your firewall or spy ware approve for you to view. Check with the Better Business Bureau to find out how reputable the company is. Time consuming but worth it.

2. 

   Research the different deals available. Are there special deals for booking on line? Is there a monthly or weekly special? How about a business person special? Week end special? Summer or holiday special?

   Do you have special needs such as you are a smoker? Ask for a smoker friendly car. (not too common anymore).

   If you smoke and the facility does not have smoking cars it is imperative that you do not sneak a smoke in a non smokers car. Some people have allergies to cigarette smoke and they will charge you to have the car cleaned and detailed. (this is mentioned in your contract--read the fine print)

3. 

   In addition to the specials listed be sure when contacting the car rental business that they are aware your car is at the mechanics and you have a copy of the work order so you would like the reduced rate.

   Many people do not know this but almost 95% of car rentals have specials when your car is being repaired.

4. 

   Do not allow pets inside a car rental as some people have allergies to pets and they will charge you to have the car cleaned and detailed. (this is mentioned in your contract--read the fine print)

5. 

   Be sure to read your contract in detail including the fine print to avoid any misunderstandings, once signed you will be responsible and a misunderstanding will not be recognized. They will only tell you that you signed the contract which clearly (in 2pt font they don't mention)states your agreement so it is critical you read that contract and know what you are agreeing to.

6. 

   Ok now that you read and agreed to the terms of your contract by signing you will have to utilize a major credit card with more than $500 available to rent your car. Most places accept credit cards only and this is because they will put a certain amount "on hold" on your account. Find out exactly how much they will freeze or put on hold. Does this include the rental fee or is this in addition to the car rental charge? ASK questions...

7. 

   If you are going to be using the auto for more than just local driving, find out if there is a mile allowance. This means that if you go over a certain amount of miles what will the charge be? If you know you will be putting more than average mileage on the auto ask if they have a special package to accommodate your driving needs.

8. 

   Call your car insurance company and ask them if a car rental is included in your plan. Some insurance companies and policies will supply you with a rental car as this may be included in your plan. Some policies will reimburse you.

   Also ask your insurance company if you are covered when renting a car? What about the car rental? If so.. what are the dollar allowances? Will you require additional insurance offered by the car rental agent? Ask if you have to give a copy of your state issued drivers license along with your current valid insurance card and registration to the car rental place. Your insurance company is happy to assist you and are highly knowledgeable about this topic. You pay for their services, utilize them.

9. 

   Now that you signed the contract and covered all of the above steps you have to go outside with a car rental agent and physically look at the car and sign as to the actual condition the car is in. Bring to their attention every single ding, scratch, dent, scrape or imperfection that you see both inside and outside of the car. Do not worry about seeming petty, when returning the car they will scrutinize that car and can/will charge your credit card for any mark on that car that you did not sign off on before leaving the lot. Do not minimize even the smallest scratch or stain in the upholstery unless you want to pay for body work and painting for a car you are returning!

10. 

    With the price of gas prices almost $5 per gallon it is important that you note the amount of gas the car has in it before you leave the lot. You will be responsible for every single gallon and have to return it filled exactly or more than you started otherwise they will charge your car approximately $8-$10 per gallon.

11. 

    How much room will you really need? Smaller cars are cheaper and more economical where as SUV's and trucks would be higher priced.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not allow children to put their feet on the seats or chairs. What you may allow in your car is not allowed in theirs.

• Keep in mind this is a rental and they have your credit card they can charge at will so be careful.

• Do not eat or drink in the car to avoid spills and splatters.

• Do not smoke

• No Pets

• Be careful you are responsible if ANYTHING happens to this car

• If there will be an additional spouse they will have to present their information and valid state issued drivers license.

• Do not lend out the car to anyone

• Respect the car

• Read all of the contract (fine print too!)

• Call your insurance company for details

Resources

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