Cars - Renting

tips on buying cars from the united states government

general tips - buying new - buying used - leasing - renting - repair

Federal law does not cover short-term car and truck rentals, but some state laws do. Contact your state or local consumer protection office for information or to report a complaint.

• Ask in advance if there are any charges that might increase the stated rental rate. For example, there may be airport surcharges and drop-off fees, insurance fees, fuel charges, mileage fees, taxes, additional-driver fees, underage-driver fees, and equipment-rental fees (for items such as ski racks and car seats).

• Ask if the rental car company checks the driving records of potential customers. A company may check for violations when you arrive at the counter. You may be rejected even if you have a confirmed reservation.

• Check in advance to be sure you aren’t duplicating insurance coverage. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is an optional charge of $9 to $13 a day by the rental company. If you decline to pay extra for CDW, you accept responsibility for any damages to the car. CDW does not pay for bodily injuries or damages to your personal property. Rental companies also may sell loss of use and liability insurance. If you’re traveling on business, your employer may have insurance that covers you. Rental protections may also be provided through your personal auto insurance, a motor club membership, or the credit card you use to pay for rentals.

• Carefully inspect the vehicle and its tires before renting.

• Check refueling policies and charges.

• Ask if there is a refundable charge being made to your credit card. At the time you pick up your car, a company may make a charge of hundreds of dollars to your credit card. Most companies do not process the amount unless you fail to return the car as specified in your rental contract. If it is processed, your credit card spending limit may be reduced by the amount of the deposit bringing you near or over your credit card limit and creating problems when you try to make other transactions with the card. If you don’t want to charge the deposit, companies may ask for the deposit in cash.

 

 

general tips - buying new - buying used - leasing - renting - repair

taken from http://www.consumeraction.gov/