How to Keep Your Rental Car in Top Condition During Your Lease

Nearly 92 percent of families in America own a vehicle at this point according to recent reports. Many families own two or more vehicles. That being said, vehicle ownership isn't for everyone. Some people don't want the commitment of purchasing a vehicle. They'd rather have a little more flexibility in the cars, trucks, or SUVs they drive instead of having to stick with the same ones year after year. Some like the idea of testing certain vehicles before they settle on a certain type.

If you're interested in having the freedom that comes with owning a vehicle without the actual commitment, a lease or long-term car rental may be the best choice for you. These alternatives often entail lower upfront costs and monthly payments than the conventional route. That doesn't necessarily mean they don't come with certain responsibilities, though. You'll need to keep a lease or long-term rental in top condition while it's in your care, and the following measures can help you do just that.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for all vehicles, and long-term rentals and leases are no exception. All vehicles incur wear and tear when you drive them, and maintenance helps to minimize the toll of constant use. In general, routine maintenance entails regular oil and filter changes; checking coolant and brake fluid levels and topping them off as needed; checking the battery; and replacing damaged belts and hoses among other factors.

Specific maintenance needs may vary from one vehicle to the next. At the same time, your lease or rental agreement may dictate what's expected of you in terms of vehicle upkeep. Be sure to follow those requirements. Also, keep copies of maintenance records to submit when your lease or rental ends as proof that you held up your end of the agreement.

Tire Maintenance

Tire maintenance is also important. You'll need to have monthly pressure checks performed to ensure the tires have the appropriate amount of air in them or check them yourself. Have the wheel alignment checked and adjusted as needed too. Improperly aligned wheels can lead to uneven and excessive tire wear and place added strain on other components of the vehicle, so paying close attention to that aspect is essential. Tire rotations are also a key piece of the puzzle. Tires generally need to be rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Have the tires replaced when the tread depth gets too low as well. You shouldn't drive on tires with less than 2/32 of an inch of tread. You can use a depth gauge to measure the tread. Alternatively, you can use a penny to determine if the tread is too low. When using a penny, insert it into one of the grooves between the tread with Lincoln's head pointing down. If the tread doesn't cover part of his head, it's time to replace the tires.

Exterior Care

Keeping the body of the car in optimal condition is likewise important. Park in covered areas when possible to protect the car from the elements. Consider washing it or having it washed by professionals every two weeks and waxing it at least once every three months. Remove tree sap, bird droppings, and similar debris as quickly as possible to prevent paint damage. Have scratches, paint chips, and other damage repaired along the way as well.

Interior Care

You'll also need to take good care of the interior of the vehicle. Clean up any spills immediately to prevent sticky spots, stains, and additional damage. Vacuum the interior of the vehicle regularly, and be sure to use floor mats to keep mud and dirt from damaging the carpet. If the vehicle has leather upholstery, have it conditioned frequently to prevent cracking, peeling, and fading. Take care of the console and other portions of the interior to keep them looking like new as well.

Other Vehicle Care Measures

Other vehicle care measures also come into play. For one, pay close attention to your mileage. Lease agreements typically include mileage limitations. Those can range from 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year for standard leases. Those terms may be different for long-term rentals. Be sure you understand the limitations in your lease or rental agreement and try not to exceed them. Going over the limits could result in significant fees.

Additionally, take heed to any warning lights or other problems that arise while you have the vehicle. Have malfunctions taken care of promptly to keep the car up and running. If the vehicle sustains serious body damage, cracked glass, other other issues, report them to your lease or rental company immediately and have them repaired.

You'll be responsible for maintaining insurance coverage on the vehicle as well. Lease agreements generally require at least the minimum liability coverage mandated by the state in which you're driving. They may also require additional comprehensive and collision coverage. You may be required to list the lease or rental company as an additional payee. For long-term rentals, the rental company may offer coverage for an additional fee. Be sure you understand the coverage requirements and adhere to them.

Keeping a Lease or Rental Vehicle in Top-Notch Condition

No matter what type of vehicle you're driving or how long you plan to keep it, taking care of it should be a top priority. Routine maintenance, tire maintenance, interior and exterior care, prompt repairs, and other measures will keep the vehicle in optimal condition. That, in turn, will ultimately minimize wear and tear and repair costs in the long run.

Leased vehicles and long-term rentals are no exception to that rule. Though these vehicles may not belong to you, you're still responsible for taking care of them while they're in your possession. Failing to do so can have serious financial repercussions. You may ultimately be required to pay for the wear, damage, excess mileage, and other issues that arise during your time with the vehicle once you return it. With that being the case, take care of the vehicle as if it were your own.

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