RENTAL CAR INSPECTION Archives

When Mike Welden returned his Budget rental car after his Palm Springs vacation, he thought he was done with the car. The retired social worker had enjoyed a pleasant two-week trip through California without incident. But Budget wasn't done with him. Three weeks later, Welden's credit card got dinged with a $450 cleaning fee. The company claimed their vehicle reeked of cigarette smoke.

Budget hits non-smokers with a mysterious $450 cleaning fee. Do they have to pay?

April 14, 2026 by Christopher Elliott

When Mike Welden returned his Budget rental car after his Palm Springs vacation, he thought he was done with the car. The retired social worker had enjoyed a pleasant two-week trip through California without incident.

Jackson Groves never used to think about rental car safety, but he's recently noticed rental companies stepping up their game. From built-in dash cameras to SOS buttons for emergencies, these new features are designed to enhance driver security. Companies like Enterprise Mobility are setting higher standards for vehicle maintenance and cleanliness. But even with these advancements, renters must stay vigilant. Learn how to check if your rental car is safe and the steps to take for a worry-free trip.

How safe is your rental car? Here’s how to know before you go

August 31, 2024August 24, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Safety is not necessarily at the top of Jackson Groves’ mind when he rents a car. He doesn’t wonder: Has the rental company properly maintained the car? Are there any recalls on the vehicle? Did they thoroughly clean and sanitize it?

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