Defective mirrors, dirty seats or a smaller car than booked – if you notice defects such as these when you pick up your car, inform the staff at the car rental counter. The latter must be given the opportunity to take remedial action.

If the car is dirty, for example, he or she must have it cleaned immediately. If no remedy can be found within a reasonable period of time, the rental company is obliged to provide you with another vehicle without defects.

If no other car is available but the defective vehicle is roadworthy, have all the defects confirmed in writing by the car rental company before you set off. After returning the rental car, you can use this written confirmation to make a complaint about your booking.

Always check your rental car for defects when you collect it. Use the following list as a guide:

Are high visibility jackets, spare wheel and first aid kit available? Are there any scratches or defective areas (e.g. on the paintwork or windscreen)?

• Has the interior been cleaned?
  
• Are the tyres OK?
  
• Is the engine making unusual noises?
• Are the seat belts fully functional?
• Does a warning light come on in the display?
• Are the brakes working?
• Do the lights and indicators work?
• Is the boot cover in place?