When you rent a car, the last thing you want to worry about is the possibility of a breakdown. However, like any vehicle, rental cars can experience mechanical issues that can leave you stranded on the side of the road. In these situations, it’s important to know who is responsible for the breakdown and what steps you should take to resolve the issue.
What should I do if my rental car breaks down?
If your rental car breaks down while you’re on the road, there are a few steps you should take to address the situation:
Contact the rental company
The first thing you should do is contact the rental company to inform them of the breakdown. They can provide guidance on what to do next and may have specific protocols in place for handling these situations.
Call for roadside assistance.
In addition to contacting the rental company, you should also reach out to the roadside assistance provider associated with your rental agreement. They will be able to dispatch a tow truck or mechanic to assist you with the breakdown.
Inspect the car before renting
To prevent breakdowns and potential disputes, it’s always a good idea to thoroughly inspect the rental car before renting it. Take note of any existing damage or mechanical issues and inform the rental company of these issues before taking possession of the vehicle.
Does my rental car come with roadside assistance?
Whether or not your rental car comes with roadside assistance will depend on your agreement with the rental company. Here are a few ways to determine if your rental car is covered:
Check the rental agreement
The rental agreement should outline whether or not roadside assistance is included. Look for any mentions of towing services, mechanical breakdowns, or emergency assistance.
Ask the rental company for details
If you’re unsure about the inclusion of roadside assistance, reach out to the rental company directly. They can provide you with the necessary information and help you navigate any breakdown-related issues.
Call the rental company for assistance
If you find yourself in a breakdown situation and aren’t sure if roadside assistance is included, contact the rental company immediately. They can guide you through the process and inform you of any coverage that may be available.
Will my rental car insurance cover breakdowns?
Whether or not your rental car insurance will cover breakdowns depends on the specifics of your policy. Here are a few considerations:
Review your car insurance policy
Take a close look at your car insurance policy to determine if it includes coverage for rental vehicles. Some policies automatically extend coverage to rental cars, while others may require a separate endorsement.
Inquire with the rental company about coverage
Contact the rental company to inquire about their insurance coverage options for breakdowns. They can provide information on any additional coverage you may need to purchase or if their rental agreement includes coverage.
Consider adding rental reimbursement to your policy
If your car insurance policy does not currently provide rental car coverage, consider adding rental reimbursement coverage. This will help cover the cost of a rental vehicle if your car breaks down and needs repairs.
What should I do if I experience a mechanical failure?
If you experience a mechanical failure while driving the rental car, follow these steps:
Call the rental company immediately
Inform the rental company about the mechanical failure as soon as possible. They will be able to provide guidance on how to proceed and may offer assistance in finding a repair shop or providing a replacement vehicle.
Follow instructions provided by the rental company
The rental company may have specific instructions for handling mechanical failures. Follow their guidance to ensure a smooth resolution to the issue.
Ask for a replacement car if necessary
If the mechanical failure is severe and the rental car is not drivable, ask the rental company for a replacement vehicle. They should be able to provide you with a comparable car to continue your journey.
Are there any additional fees for breakdowns or repairs?
Whether or not you will incur additional fees for breakdowns or repairs will depend on the rental company and your rental agreement. Here are a few considerations:
Inquire about rental coverage options
When renting a car, ask the rental company about their coverage options for breakdowns and repair costs. They can provide details on any additional fees or charges that may apply.
Understand repair policies outlined in the rental agreement
Read through the rental agreement to familiarize yourself with the rental company’s repair policies. This will help you understand your responsibilities and any potential costs associated with breakdowns or repairs.
Ask the rental company before authorizing any repairs
If the rental car requires repairs, consult with the rental company before authorizing any work. They may have preferred repair shops or specific processes for handling repairs.
