10 Common Mistakes Made When Renting a Car and How to Avoid Them

Car rental is one of the most practical ways to meet your travel and transportation needs. However, even small mistakes during the process can lead to financial losses and unnecessary stress. Especially for first-time renters, there are several key points to pay attention to. At Edition Car Rental, we’ve compiled the most common car rental mistakes and simple ways to avoid them.

Not Reviewing the Rental Agreement Thoroughly

One of the most common mistakes in the car rental process is not reading the contract carefully. Many customers focus only on the pickup and return times, overlooking crucial details. However, the rental agreement is the most important document that protects both the company and the renter’s rights.

Before signing, pay attention to the following:

• Rental duration and mileage limits clearly stated,
• Insurance coverage and exclusions defined,
• Deposit, fuel policy, and return conditions specified,
• Additional fees and when they may apply explained in detail.

Solution: Never sign before reading every clause. Ask the company representative about unclear points and request a copy of the contract if needed. Edition Car Rental provides all contract details transparently to every customer.

Ignoring Insurance and Coverage Details

Many renters assume the car insurance covers all types of damage, but this is not always true. In some cases, coverage is limited. Overlooking insurance details may lead to unexpected costs in case of an accident or damage.

Important points regarding insurance and coverage:

• Check what the insurance policy covers and what is excluded.
• Confirm whether items like windows, tires, lights, or interior parts are included.
• If optional or deductible insurance packages exist, understand their terms.

Solution: Always verify insurance coverage before renting. Edition Car Rental secures all its vehicles with comprehensive insurance and offers additional protection packages. This ensures both you and the vehicle are fully covered in case of any incident.

Skipping Vehicle Inspection at Pickup

A thorough vehicle inspection before taking delivery can prevent future disputes. Unfortunately, many customers skip this step and sign the delivery form without checking. This can result in being held responsible for pre-existing damage.

During pickup, make sure to:

• Inspect the body, bumpers, rims, and mirrors for scratches or dents.
• Test all equipment such as lights, signals, air conditioning, and multimedia.
• Record accurate fuel level and mileage in the contract.
• Check for interior cleanliness and any damage to seats or windows.

Solution: Carefully inspect the vehicle before accepting it and report any existing damage. Have these noted on the delivery form. Edition Car Rental provides customers with a detailed condition report to ensure full transparency.

Overlooking Mileage and Fuel Policies

Mileage and fuel policies directly affect your total rental cost. Many renters ignore these conditions and face unexpected fees. Edition Car Rental informs customers in advance to prevent unnecessary expenses.

Mileage limits may apply depending on the company. Once exceeded, each additional kilometer may incur extra charges. For long-distance trips, opt for unlimited mileage packages.

Fuel policy usually follows a “full-to-full” model—vehicles are delivered with a full tank and must be returned the same way. If the vehicle is returned with less fuel, the missing amount plus service fee is billed.

Solution: Confirm both mileage and fuel policies before renting. For long-term use, choose unlimited mileage and full-tank models. Edition Car Rental clearly communicates these policies to avoid hidden charges.

Misunderstanding Credit Card and Deposit Terms

Credit card and deposit procedures are safeguards for both the renter and the company. Misunderstandings about these policies can delay the process or cause frustration. The deposit is a temporary hold against potential fines, damages, or fuel shortages.

Key details about credit card and deposit usage:

• The deposit is held on your card during the rental but not charged.
• The hold is usually released within 3–7 business days after the vehicle’s safe return.
• Some banks may process refunds at different speeds.
• Cash deposits or alternative payment methods depend on company policy.

Solution: Make sure your credit card limit is sufficient and confirm the deposit amount in advance. Edition Car Rental offers fair and transparent deposit policies, releasing holds the same day once the vehicle is returned in proper condition.

By following these steps, your rental experience will be safer, more economical, and more enjoyable. Edition Car Rental is among the most trusted car rental companies in Kocaeli and Gebze, providing transparent and customer-friendly service.

Poorly Planning the Rental Duration

One common mistake is misjudging how long you’ll need the car. Many renters only consider short-term needs, setting incorrect durations that lead to higher costs or inconvenience. For example, returning a car earlier than planned can result in additional fees.

Consider the following when deciding on rental duration:

• Travel itinerary and trip length,
• Possible changes in business or vacation plans,
• Extension terms offered by the rental company.

Solution: Finalize your plans before renting and account for possible changes. If you may need an extension, mention it during booking. Edition Car Rental offers flexible rental durations so you can adjust your plans easily.

Letting an Unregistered Driver Use the Vehicle

Allowing someone not listed in the contract to drive the rental car poses serious risks. If an accident occurs, insurance becomes invalid and full financial responsibility falls on the renter. Failing to register an additional driver puts both the company and the customer at risk.

Benefits of registering an additional driver:

• Ensures all drivers are protected under the insurance policy,
• Allows shared driving on long trips,
• Provides legal protection in case of accidents.

Solution: If more than one person will drive, register all drivers with their ID and license details. Edition Car Rental simplifies this process and includes every registered driver in insurance coverage, ensuring a safe and compliant rental experience.

Ignoring Traffic Fines, Tolls, and Parking Fees

Another frequent oversight is assuming traffic fines, tolls (HGS), and parking fees aren’t the renter’s responsibility. Any violations during the rental period are assigned to the renter based on the rental dates. Likewise, toll charges are linked to the car’s license plate and may appear on your final invoice.

To avoid issues, remember to:

• Follow all traffic rules and speed limits,
• Ensure the vehicle’s HGS tag is active and has balance before use,
• Keep all parking tickets and receipts, and pay before leaving.

Solution: Check that the HGS device is active before driving. All fines and tolls incurred during your rental are billed fairly and transparently by Edition Car Rental, ensuring no hidden costs.

Returning the Vehicle Late or with Less Fuel

The return process is one of the most sensitive parts of the rental experience. Common mistakes include returning the vehicle late or without refilling fuel. Each company has specific return policies, and ignoring them can result in additional charges.

When returning the vehicle, make sure to:

• Return on time or inform the company in advance if delayed,
• Refill the tank to match the pickup level,
• Remove personal belongings and return the vehicle clean.

Solution: Follow the contract’s return time and fuel policy. Edition Car Rental offers flexible return options and clear fuel policies, saving both time and money.

Choosing Unreliable Companies for Cheap Prices

Many renters focus only on low prices, which can lead to major problems later. Some unregistered or unlicensed companies operate with poor insurance, inadequate maintenance, or hidden fees. What seems cheap upfront can become very costly afterward.

Risks of renting from unreliable companies:

• Incomplete or fake insurance policies,
• Poorly maintained or defective vehicles,
• Hidden charges not stated in the contract,
• Full liability transferred to the renter in case of accidents.

Solution: Don’t just compare prices—evaluate the company’s reliability and service quality. Avoid businesses without clear websites, reviews, or contact information. Edition Car Rental legally operates across Kocaeli and Gebze, providing insured and well-maintained vehicles for a safe rental experience.

In conclusion, even small mistakes in the car rental process can lead to major issues. By working with the right company, paying attention to contract details, and following safe driving rules, you can easily avoid these pitfalls. With transparent procedures, fair pricing, and a professional team, Edition Car Rental makes car rental simple, secure, and enjoyable for every customer.