10 Things to Check Before Driving Off in a Rental Car

Picking up a rental car is exciting — but before you pull out of the lot, a quick five-minute inspection is one of the most important habits any renter can form. Catching pre-existing damage and reporting it immediately protects you from being held responsible when you return the vehicle.

1. Walk the Full Perimeter

Walk all the way around the car, not just the sides you can see from the counter window. Check for scratches, dents, stone chips, and scuffs on bumpers, doors, wheels, and the roof.

2. Photograph Everything

Use your phone to photograph every panel of the car — four sides, the roof, and the floor under the front and rear bumpers. Time-stamp these photos. They are your evidence if a dispute arises at return.

3. Check the Tyres

Look for obvious flat spots, uneven wear, or sidewall damage on all four tyres (and the spare if there is one). Note the location of the spare tyre and the jack tool.

4. Test All Lights

Turn on headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and indicators. In Saudi Arabia, driving with a faulty light can result in a fine — and the renter is responsible for the vehicle during the rental period.

5. Check the Windscreen

Small chips can spread into full cracks in the heat. If you spot any, report them to the agent before you leave so they are documented.

6. Inspect the Interior

Check seats, carpets, and the headliner for stains or damage. Open every storage compartment and note anything left behind by the previous renter.

7. Confirm Fuel Level

Most Enterprise KSA rentals are provided with a full tank and should be returned full. Confirm the fuel gauge reading matches your rental agreement before driving.

8. Locate the Emergency Kit

Saudi regulations require vehicles to carry a reflective triangle and first aid kit. Confirm these are present in the vehicle before you drive away.

9. Test the Air Conditioning

In Saudi Arabia's climate, a functioning A/C is non-negotiable. Test all settings before leaving the branch so any issues can be resolved immediately.

10. Confirm Your Documentation

Make sure you have your rental agreement, the vehicle's registration card (Istimara), and the insurance documents. Keep these in the vehicle throughout your rental period.