Basic Car Checks You Need To Perform When Buying/Renting A Car

A few simple maintenance checks could save you great trouble and money

Thoroughly checking your car every few weeks for any possible malfunctions may save you the trouble of sudden breakdowns. There are 6 key areas to check when you are looking for problems; Fuel, Lights, oil, water, electricity and rubber.

Fuel

Veteran drivers have this highly efficient habit of fueling up every now and then. They keep their fuel tanks at least halfway full or even all the way if there are other family members using the car/rental car or if they are driving to an unfamiliar area. They do not wait for the fuel light to come on rather, they top up the tank as soon as they come across a fuel station, regardless of immediate need.

Lights

Cleaning all your exterior lights every once in a while would get you to ensure whether or not they are working okay or if there are any cracks in the outer shields or any breakages on the inside. It’s also imperative that you check its operational capabilities as well while you are at it, for example, check if all the indicators are working well, ensure if the back lights and headlights are working and there are no blown out bulbs or dimmed intensity of light.

Oil

Car/Rental car dealers and car manufacturers perpetually stress over checking your engine oils every so often and changing if need be. If you are not sure how to do it, refer to the car handbook. Simply put, don’t wait for the red oil indicator to come on- your engine might already be under-performing/or damaged by then.

Water

Thousands of cars in the UK are reported annually to have broken down unexpectedly due overheating, even more so in the summer. It is important that you keep a keen eye on the coolant levels every few weeks and ensure the water levels aren’t low to an alarming level.

Moreover, it’s also advised to check for any leaks if the water levels become too low too often. And let’s not forget to fill up the windshield washer fluid with water and soap!

Check your handbook if you don’t know how to go about such tasks.

Electrics

Battery breakdown is an even a bigger issue than overheating when it comes to unexpected car breakdowns. Keep a battery life calendar that helps you track the lifespan of the battery installed in your car so you know when it’s time to replace it.

As mentioned above, checking the coolant in the electrics should not be compromised. The radiator’s electric cooling fan should be working without any malfunctions in an ideal car maintenance situation. If you have enough knowledge about car mechanism, then get your tools out and check if all is running well, or take your car up to the garage to get it checked.

Rubber

Damaged or overused tyres are one of the most important, if not the prime cause of car breakdowns (even more so when you have rented a car). Whether the car is being excessively used every day, or just standing in the spot for weekly grocery runs, it’s essential that the tyre pressure is checked every few weeks and topped up/ adjusted accordingly. Every time you plan a long drive, get your tyres filled up before your car hits the big road.

Your handbook should be able to tell you the right pressure levels for your car tyres in case you don’t know or your dealer forgot to mention.

What Vehicles Can I Legally Drive On My License

Understanding the categories in the drivers’ license is not for laymen. But when it comes to hiring a van for personal use or business purposes, knowing the difference between category B and Category C license could literally save you/your business a lot of trouble. It could make a world of difference; knowing the line between staying legally responsible and compliant and getting pulled over by the police.

Your Full category B drivers’ license would not give enough leverage to bring just about any vehicle of your choice on the road. Let us reveal to you the restrictions that apply so you could hire a bigger vehicle for that big home move or business event without a hitch.

What vehicles can I hire/drive using a category B license?

The standard UK driving license (Category B) enables the holder to drive any automobile weighing up to 3.5 tons. It doesn’t matter whether the weight is all-inclusive or just the vehicle.

By going through the back of the drivers’ license, you would find out which categories you qualify for. Moreover, how long you have been legally driving also holds significant importance. Drivers who qualified for the license between 1997 and 2013 can tow a trailer without further tests, however, the weight limitation applies- the weight of the vehicle and trailer combined must not exceed 4.2 tons (750Kg for the trailer, and/or any other weights).

The difference between category B and category C Drivers’ License

For drivers looking to operating a vehicle that weighs more than 3.5 tons, they would require a category C license. The applicant of this category undergoes an additional test to see whether or not you could drive such a huge vehicle. Those who have passed their test before 1997 automatically qualify for a Category C license.

License holders from before 1997 can legally drive medium-sized to large vehicles that weight up to 7.5 tons, with/without a 750Kg trailer, without further assessment.

You should check the back of your license to ensure whether or not you are authorized enough as certain permissions vary or are removed when licenses or the policies are renewed.

Removing Vinyl Signage Off Vehicles

Rental cars are the most impactful vehicles on the road. Why? With their promotional vinyl signage proudly on display, they act as self-promoting billboards-on-wheels, while they are hired and cruising around the city. That’s the smartest a branding strategy can get.

Car hire companies go through this one-time-hassle and enjoy years of free and effortless promotion.

Now, if you, as the owner of a car dealership, have a fleet of cars that are vinyl signage-struck that you want to sell, then you might want to remove the decals.

Seeking professional help

Sometimes we don’t feel like home fixing some problems, especially if we are looking at taking off decals from an expensive car. The best solution is to take off vinyl signage from your car is to take it to professionals who deal in putting up and taking off auto adhesives. They would know what to do and what to use that would be best depending on your car. Look around for professional signage dealers in your area.

If you do want to do it yourself, here is what to do. But, we recommend to not practice this if your car is incredibly expensive.

Using a heating agent; a heat gun or a blow-dryer

Heating the surface in question, preferably with a heat gun or a hair dryer- heat the graphics/ decals you want to remove. This allows the graphics and the adhesive underneath to de-harden and comes off easily.

Removing the adhesive

Store bought adhesive-remover

Hardware store or car supplies stores nearby you would have one that would do the job. There are different products for different kinds of adhesives; make sure you get the one that is made for the adhesives you are dealing with. If the dissolvent is too strong, then the paint might come off too.

Don’t use metal scrapers or dissolvent that might take off the paint.

To avoid scratches, bumps or other marks on your car, it is advisable that you do not use metal scrapers or anything sharp to scrape off the adhesive as it may leave marks on your car. There are scrapers available solely for this purpose; you should use those.

Moreover, depending on the vinyl signage on your vehicle, some dissolvent might be a bit too strong to use. Make sure that the one you are using is compatible with the adhesive and is effective and not harmful for your car.

Vinegar

If all else fails, or if there’s little adhesive residue left on the car or the glass, then use Vinegar solution on the area until the sticky residue comes off completely.

To make Vinegar solution:

1 part White Vinegar

2 parts of water.

Keep the solution in a spray bottle and spray the affected area regularly. Leave it for 5-10 minutes before rubbing it in circular motions.

Repeat as needed.

9 Things To NOT Do While Renting A Car

Renting a car is one of our best bets when you think about the hassle-free travel experience. In the interest of the company- client transparency and customer satisfaction, renting a car have been made easy overtime, or so you think.

With car rental companies’ presence on digital media and app stores, tactics like “Call now for instant booking” or “Simple one-click reservation” or “book now, pay later” have got us to believe the process would be transparent and straightforward- but somehow it’s anything but so.

Questions like Do I need to buy the car rental company’s insurance package? Who’s paying the refuel charges? What if I am accused of damaging the car? How to go about car inspection? I need to drive across borders, can I do it? Do I need to buy all the extra services/gadgets they offer at the rental counter? Pop up in our heads every time you think about renting a car. The process is quite nerve-wracking.

There are certain do’s and don’ts when renting a car. We have listed down 9 of them for you.

1. Prepaying for gas

By prepaying for gas beforehand, we think we are saving ourselves some valuable time. The idea is enticing because you may be renting out a car for a fun, stop-free road-trip or a wedding. Unless you are absolutely sure the tank would be empty upon returning, don’t prepay for gas. Instead, suggest to keep count of mileage and pay at the end, or deduct the gas charges so you could fuel up on your own.

2. Failing to check for places to refuel

in continuation of #1, if you have decided to pay for gas yourself, the chances are the tank may be close to empty. So you might need to fill up as soon as possible. The best time to find a place to refuel your ride is immediately after pick-up. If you are somewhere new, familiarize yourself with the local, or the most easily accessible or cheapest gas stations as you go. Figure this when you are not pressed for time. You could avoid major delays if you have a flight to catch or a wedding to go to.

3. Purchasing insurance, #1:

Your own auto insurance covers you.

In case you are offered car insurance at the time of booking, it’s recommended that you check with your insurer whether or not your rental car would be covered before turning it down. Because auto insurance policies vary greatly. If you have purchased a basic car insurance plan, chances are, it may not include coverage for rentals, whereas if you have subscribed for “full coverage”, it most certainly would.

The basic insurance policy implies that the coverage you get for your main vehicle extends to the rental car because the rental is considered a substitute. So if you have an all-inclusive coverage on your own car, it would be applicable on your rental vehicle just as well.

Most plans would cover you even if the rented car is valued more than that of your own, so there isn’t a worrying moment about wanting to rent a better car or get an upgrade.

Note that a car accident in a rental vehicle would likely raise your rates if you have to make a claim on your own insurance policy.

4. Purchasing insurance, reason #2: Your credit card covers everything else

Anything your insurance company does not cover would most likely be covered by your credit card. In some cases, the credit card covers just as much or more than your own auto insurance; in others, it is intended to be secondary/ back up plan to help cover should anything go wrong.

Of course, making your car rental payment through a qualifying credit card does not give you any protection.

5. Ignoring one possible red flag: “loss of use” insurance.

When a rental car is in an accident or faces some other damage, “loss of use” charges apply to cover the likely revenue lost when the vehicle is off the road for repairs. This is typically charged in terms of a day’s rental for that unit, and most insurance companies do not cover these charges.

7. Failing to check for a reward program or other discounts.

Many membership programs establish alliances with car rental companies and other such businesses as a member incentive. These include travel companies, frequent flier programs, sports programs, hobby-focused groups or even restaurants. Such discount is typically announced on websites and apps and you would be notified through notifications, pop-ups or emails. If you are a long time member of a car rental company, take a look before pinning down a rental car and you could find a great deal.

8. Inspecting hastily upon pickup

Upon picking up your rental car, make sure to check it inside and out. This inspection is necessary so you could find anything that could be deemed as damage when you drive away with it. Scratches, loose parts, torn seat covers, working windows, windshields, indicator handles, mirrors and anything else that you could think of.

Keep a sharp eye for details big and small. The wise thing to do is to take a walk around the car and take as many photos as possible, or shooting a video where you can voluntarily shake the bumper and kick the tire to see if anything is wrong. It’s possible that you might find something that the company has not previously noticed so you couldn’t be held responsible later on.

9. Leaving final inspection to chance.

Returning rental cars is a lot different than checking out of a hotel. You can’t just drop your keys, thank the receptionist and leave. Dropping off the car unattended by any agent is just unsettling. You should be content about handing over the car to someone from the company so that they can check it and confirm nothing is off. Customer-Company disputes over damage claims are the most recent epidemic. If no agent is present at drop off, the dispute later becomes your word against theirs.

Booking Advice From Surrey Cars Guildford

Priding on great service and satisfied customers for 7 years and counting. As Surrey Cars Guildford continues to grow and expand, they have a few passenger-friendly tips for you to benefit from.

“You” = Reservation holder

When we say “You” or “Your” during a phone call or in an email, it refers to any individual, family, company or a group that may have reserved with us. It is to be noted that any name, personal or business, provided by the customer will be used in further notifications, emails or calls, billing and invoice, pick up and drop off.

If your reservation is company sponsored, it is advised that they should place the booking under the passenger(s)’ name to avoid confusion.

Booking

We strongly recommend that you allow yourself a good amount of time when you have to reach your destination. Specify a pickup time that is at least a few hours before your flight or any other important commitment.

For example, if your flight is in the evening and you are supposed to leave at a time you know will be a rush hour

Surrey Cars will not be held responsible for any delays caused by passengers, traffic, or weather conditions.

Pricing

The rental car requirements specified by the passengers would be the core determinant of the prices quoted by us. You could two identical cars and the prices may vary; if you request additional services or gadgets with either one of them.

Prices are subject to change if there is a request from the passenger(s) about:

vehicle up-gradation
up-gradation or down-gradation in the number of passengers
added services
updated itinerary

Service

At Surrey Cars, we strive to provide utmost comfort and safety in any vehicle we set out for hire. Hygiene is our utmost priority; we take special measures while maintaining the cleanliness of our fleet, inside and out. We request our passengers to do so as well, for their benefit and others who might hire the same car in the future.

Passengers are responsible for any loss of use, damage, or compromise in standard cleanliness of the vehicle. That is why, we have prohibited food, beverages and cigarettes inside the vehicle to avoid incidences like spilling, staining or vomiting. Passengers may be liable to pay a surcharge should any such occurrences occur.

Cancellations

In case of cancellation, the reservation holder should inform us as soon as possible so that your request could be processed. If the vehicle is dispatched upon your initial request, relevant charges may incur.

Car Renting Tips For Business Travelers

Renting a private car is often the most practical means of transportation during travel. Whether you hire a car to fly to your destination and upon arrival, renting a car is often an easier option to move around. While it seems simple, renting a car can turn into a hassle. There is plenty of paperwork and options that may lead to confusion and delay, and end up costing even the savviest travellers extra money.

So we have put together some practical car renting tips for you to keep in mind the next time you rent a car while you travel for business.

– Have a membership

The ease and benefits of having a car rental company membership cannot go to vain. Upon signing up, the important information like driver’s license number, contact information, insurance details, etc., are jotted down and completed ahead of time, which would take you a lot of time otherwise. From then on, the automated database would take care of the paperwork while you rent a car in no time. No more standing in queues! Additionally, being a member means all the deals and discounts that keep your overall rates lower become applicable.

– Stick with one car renting company

If you don’t have a preferred taxi service or car rental company, it’s time you chose one. Find a car renting company that best fits your company’s needs and be persistent with them.

-Inspect your car

Each car is inspected for damage upon return, then cleaned before making it available again. If there are any signs of damage on the car, it’s likely that they went unseen. You could be held responsible for the damage and therefore liable to pay its repair costs.

Car rental employees keep a keen eye, but sometimes, small details can easily fall through the cracks. Be meticulous about the condition of the car before you take charge.

– Understand if you need insurance

You could be asked by your car rental service whether or not insurance or additional coverage if they are already covering. Understand what to accept or decline beforehand by being aware of what your bank, car insurance company and Credit Card Company is offering in terms of insurance coverage. Therefore, confirm these little details prior to booking.

– Make your reservation in advance

. Rental car companies have a fleet of limited cars and can possibly run out, even at large cities and airports. Do not assume to get a rental car without reserving in advance.

– Direct Hiring

Instead of relying on a third-party app or website for car renting, it’s always best to rent a car directly from their respective website to minimize the risk of cancellation or any other hitch.

– Confirm the return time

Rentals are generally made in a 24-hour span. If you return a few minutes late, you may be charged for another day. Ask them about the grace time allowance, if at all.

– Include flight information, if any

Be sure to provide flight information upon reservation. This is how the company will know to hold your reservation if you arrive late.

Top 10 Wedding Car Hire Tips

Things can get pretty hectic as the big date approaches. Having enough cars at disposal is one of the major concerns at a wedding, which is why we have 10 car hiring tips for a wedding so that your special day goes without a hitch.

Leave it to the pros

Hire professional help; Reach out to a well-established, car rental company that rents out great cars for weddings and parties big and small. Choose a firm that knows the whereabouts well and has supplied wedding cars to many in the past. They would also have good churches and reception venues to recommend you.

The firm would plan the chauffeur schedules for you and even do a test-run to and from the venue prior to the actual event.

The cars would be prepared for you a couple of days before the wedding to ensure they are in mint condition and decorated in accordance with your preferences.

Be realistic about the timing

Decide on the final route as soon as possible and check with the chauffeur to make sure he knows exactly where you want to go. Sometimes brides want to take a special route to the ceremony, and the newlyweds mostly like to go around for a ride afterwards before the reception. The car hiring company would help you plan the route and the timing but consider what your priorities really are.

Think about the distance and the number of people

It is important that you think about where the venue is, where the pickup points are and how many people would actually be in those cars. For example, the number of bridesmaids, best men, maid of honour, and the number of flower girls, page boys, close friends and immediate family. And of course, the bride and the groom itself. This will determine the number of cars you would be needing.

Book early

Just like the venue, wedding cars need to be pre-booked just as well. Because surely they would be avalanched with customers calling in to request their services. Especially in summer and on weekends. You want to make sure that you bag yourself a deal you want so nothing spoils your big day.

Go for an older model

Renting a Vintage car or a car of an older model adds to the grandeur of the wedding and makes everything appear more luxurious. In addition to that, the car is highly likely to be much more maintained than the usual.

Look for tasteful vintage car owners

There are many hobbyists car owners that give out their cars for occasions like weddings and other cocktail parties to a select few. Look them up!

Get the colour right

It is important the colour you choose for the car you hire, complements the style and theme of your wedding. Hiring a maroon car when your theme is pastel pink would just be off. Also, you might want to check with the car rental company if they would be able to match the flora and ribbons with the car you are choosing.

Think about the style of the car

Ideally, the wedding car should reflect the theme/style of your wedding. It’s not just about picking the right colour, but the right look just as well. If you have chosen to have a vintage wedding theme then you should opt for a Cadillac or a vintage looking Volkswagen. If the look and feel are modern, then why not look into getting a Mercedes Benz or a Rolls Royce?

Make sure the car is not double booked

Ask the company if you are getting exclusive use of the car. Ideally, the company should be giving out a certain car on per wedding/ per day basis. You don’t want to go returning your car in the middle of your ceremony. Double booking of a car is not only inconvenient but extremely unprofessional.

Think about your comfort above all else

Ensure the bridal dress is at peace with the car. The car should be spacious enough for the bride to fit in her dress properly without ruining it. The car rental company would be happy to advise and show you cars that suit your needs best.