Useful Information

This is information that will enhance your rental car experience in San Diego.

Car Rental Tips
Checklist for Rental Cars - before driving
Driving Tips in Mexico

Car Rental Tips

Before you leave home

If you're employed by an organization that frequently uses rental cars, they may have a negotiated rate. Get the information before you leave on travel.

Ask about rental car discounts for AAA, major national organizations, frequent-flier programs, and credit card programs with which you are a member. They will frequently offer deals on rental cars.

Review your insurance coverage options. If you have personal auto insurance, charge the rental car or vehicle to a major credit card, and you will probably be covered at least for collision damage. Ask your insurance agent, credit card company, or other card provider.

Review the local traffic laws. More information - California DMV site.

When you are ready to rent

Ask your Courtesy Auto Rental representative about rental car discounts for AAA and other programs with which you are a member.

Be sure you understand the conditions of your reservation.
-  Is there a penalty for no-shows?
-  How long will the car be held if you're stuck in traffic on the way to the pickup location?
-  Is there a fee for additional drivers and must their names be listed in the contract?
-  Is your adult child old enough to drive the car? (For liability reasons, this is important.)
-  Can you go out of state?
-  And so on...

Get a confirmation number. Provide the Courtesy Auto Rental representative with your flight number and scheduled arrival time. This will usually protect your reservation if the flight is delayed.

If you want to save more money, always fill the tank before returning the car rental or vehicle. Ask the Courtesy Auto Rental representative where the closest gas stations are located.

When returning the vehicle

Allow plenty of time to return the rental car or vehicle.

To save money, fill the tank before returning the rental car or vehicle.

Check the vehicle for damage and report any to the Courtesy Auto Rental representative.

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Checklist for Rental Cars - before driving

Nine simple things you should do before you drive your rental car. This will help you feel as comfortable and safe as possible before you get on the road.

1. Confirm you understand the local traffic laws. More information - California DMV site.
   -  Is it OK to turn right on a red light after stopping?
   -  What weight (or age) must children be before they're not required to travel in a car seat?
   -  And so on...
   
2. Jot down the car's make, model, color, and license-plate number and carry the information with you.
3. Check the car for damage. If you notice any, point it out to someone at the rental agency.
4. Locate the gas tank. Make sure the gas cap is on and that you know how to open it.
5. Test the ignition - make sure you know how to remove the key.
6. Test the heat / ac, horn, headlights, high/low beams, turn signals, windshield wipers, inside lights, window controls, emergency brake, and radio / CD.
7. Adjust the mirrors, seat, and steering wheel.
8. Get comfortable with the gas pedal, brake pedal, and clutch pedal (if there is one).
9. Check the map for how to get to your destination and back to the rental car location.

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Driving Tips in Mexico

Know the driving laws in Mexico - ignorance is not an acceptable excuse for a violation.
-  More information - U.S. government site.
-  More information - Mexico site.

To be completely safe, never drink any alcohol before or while driving.

Always have your passport with you.

Park only in safe and lighted areas - if you are not sure it is safe, it is best not to park there. It is better to park in a safe area and walk to where you want to go.

Lock your car and keep all valuables out of site.

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