Many rental agencies have a drop-off box for after-hours (however, returning a car in person minimizes disputes).
Even if you have a lot of experience to rent a car in islamabad, it pays to be wary of picking up a rental car abroad and returning a car – if only because you are more likely to be jet-lagged have a possible language barrier and/or an unknown car model.
When you pick up your car
When you arrive at the rental counter, request a copy of the contract in English, if this is not a matter of course. If you haven’t paid for the car yet, you will know what your local currency offer is. Make sure you reject “dynamic currency conversion” offers.
If you can, avoid prepaying your first tank of fuel (though some offices won’t stop you). Prepaid fuel is almost always a rip-off, as agencies charge far more per gallon than the ongoing fee. The only advantage is that you can return the car with an almost empty tank.
Test for cracks or holes in the entire car. Rent companies in abroad are very strict when it comes to charging even minor damages. Therefore, make sure that you note everything on the checklist. Some travelers photograph all dents and scratches, even the smallest (make sure the date/time stamp is enabled). When the leasing arrangement does not include any provisions, appeal to the counter for modifications.
Before you start driving, get to know your car. Try out all the functions and equipment: run the windscreen wipers and sprayers at the front and rear, determine whether the headlights start automatically with the engine, switch the headlights to high beam, familiarize yourself with the gearshift – including the Shift into reverse gear, check if you have a closed fuel cap, and so on.
This is also a excellent time to ask the rental company some questions, including:
- any grace period for the return
- Use of functions such as alarm system, lighting, radio, GPS, etc.
- What type of fuel does the car need (diesel or unleaded), what is the local name for this fuel and how is the tank cap opened?
- Place of proof of insurance “Green Card” and other documents
- whether your car has a valid motorway toll sticker (if necessary)
- Information on performing repairs and any emergency services included
- Location of the spare tire and instructions for use (do not accept a car without a replacement)
- Location of breath test kit to measure alcohol content
Before leaving, make sure the tank is full and request directions for the journey to the next stop (or at least the expressway). Then drive around the parking lot for a few minutes to test the rear view mirrors, the gearshift and clutch, reversing, and the lights and signals.
When you leave the property, don’t be surprised if your engine seems to “die” at the first stop. Many cars now have “stop-start” technology, in which the engine switches off automatically when stopped and starts again when the accelerator or clutch is released.
When you drop off your car
Be on time and drop off your car. If you are late, you may be charged an additional daily rent. Most companies only grant a 30-minute grace period, and once that period expires, you’ll have to pay another full day of rental. If you know you are late, notify the landlord in advance.
If you haven’t prepaid a tank of fuel in advance, fill up your car before returning it. Otherwise, you may pay more than double the normal price plus an additional “fuel fee.” To avoid problems at the last minute, I check online in advance whether there are petrol stations near my delivery point. Keep your final gas receipt as proof that you’ve filled the tank, and don’t throw it away until you’ve seen your credit card statement.
When you get to the car rental, check the car with the attendant to make sure there are no new problems. Some drivers take photos of the returned vehicle as evidence of its condition (a particularly good idea at non-occupied drop-off points outside of business hours). Please request a copy of the final health report and keep it until you see your credit card statement. Unexpected charges that appear on your credit card statement are easier to deal with if you have good documentation.
If you rely on collision cover on your credit card and have credit at the return desk, remember to use the same card. Using a different card may void your coverage.
Wisdom of Life 