Tips on Rental Cars (and Insurance on Rental Cars)
I have rented autos throughout the world and unfortunately it is in Mexico where I have had the worse experiences (some good). I also get asked if I sell car rental insurance and no I do not. Still I put together a bit of guide of a dos and don’ts of car rental specific to Mexico although many points apply to renting cars in general.
When renting a car in Mexico, understanding various do’s and don’ts is critical, especially regarding insurance and vehicle inspection. Here’s a comprehensive guide that includes important advice on insurance practices and tips on documenting the con
dition of your rental car:
dition of your rental car:DO’S
Research Reputable Companies: Choose well-known rental agencies and check their reviews. Compare prices and what’s included carefully.
Ensure Unlimited Mileage: Make sure your rental agreement includes unlimited mileage to avoid unexpected fees.
Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly: Before driving off, check the car for any existing damage. This includes taking detailed photographs or videos of the car, particularly the tires, and even checking under the bumpers. Run your hand along the underside of the car to feel for any damage that might not be visible. While this might dirty your hands, it’s a crucial step to prevent disputes and hassles when returning the vehicle.
Understand the Insurance Policy: Mexican law mandates basic personal liability insurance, but many agencies only offer the minimum necessary legal liability insurance, typically around $300,000 USD. Since rental agencies profit substantially from selling additional insurance that’s not included in the advertised price, carefully review the coverage you need. Check if your U.S. policy or credit card offers coverage and consider additional insurance for comprehensive protection.
Carry Necessary Documents: Always have your rental agreement, a valid driver’s license, your passport, and proof of insurance with you.
Learn Local Driving Laws: Familiarize yourself with local driving regulations, road signs, and speed limits.
Plan Your Travel Route: In rural areas especially, planning ahead with a GPS or a reliable map is beneficial.
DON’TS
Don’t Opt Out of Necessary Insurance: While upselling insurance is common, ensure you have at least the legally required insurance and consider additional coverage based on your needs.
Avoid Driving at Night: Due to hazards like poor road conditions and reduced visibility, it’s safer to drive during daylight hours.
Don’t Leave Valuables in the Car: Always take valuables with you or keep them out of sight to prevent theft.
Don’t Ignore Traffic Tickets: Address any traffic tickets you receive promptly to avoid complications.
Don’t Overlook Road Conditions: Be prepared for varying road conditions, from high-quality highways to unmaintained rural roads.
Don’t Run Low on Fuel: Gas stations can be sparse in certain areas, so it’s wise to refuel whenever possible.
CREDIT CARD INSURANCE COVERAGE
To determine if your “credit card” covers deductible waivers in Mexico, you should:
Check the Card’s Benefits Guide: Review the guide you received with your card, which usually details the coverage for rental cars.
Contact Customer Service: Call the customer service number on the back of your credit card for accurate information about what is covered under your card’s benefits, especially for rentals in Mexico.
Review Terms for International Coverage: Ensure that the coverage extends to international rentals, as some credit card insurances might limit coverage to the U.S. and Canada.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON DEPOSITS
Prepare for Deposits: Even if your credit card company confirms that you are covered, you will need to place a significant credit card or cash deposit on the rental car. This deposit is a standard requirement when you do not purchase the extra insurance offered by the rental company to cover any potential damages or discrepancies during the rental period.
Following these guidelines will help you navigate the complexities of car rental in Mexico more smoothly and enjoy a safer, more predictable travel experience.
