Ten focused minutes at pickup can save your deposit and headaches later. Do the walkthrough in good light, don’t rush, and get everything noted on the handover form (with staff initials).

Before you sign

  • Contract details: Drivers listed, insurance type and excess, deposit amount and release time, mileage limits, fuel policy (full-to-full or same-to-same), ferry/geography rules, accident hotline.
  • Licenses: Your national license + 1949 IDP. Photograph the contract pages for your records.

Exterior (3-minute scan)

  • Walkaround: Front, rear, both sides, bumpers, door edges, sills, roof, and under-bumper lips. Note every scratch, dent, chip, rust, or paint crack.
  • Glass and lights: Windshield (chips), windows, mirrors, headlights/taillights.
  • Wheels/tires: Rims, hubcaps, tire sidewalls and tread (no cords or bulges). Snap each wheel.
  • Plates/registration sticker: Present and valid.
  • Photos: Take wide shots of all sides + close-ups of pre-existing damage and each wheel.

Interior and equipment

  • Cleanliness and smell (no heavy smoke if you booked non‑smoking).
  • A/C cold, fan speeds, heater/defogger.
  • Windows/locks/mirrors, horn, seatbelts.
  • Wipers and washer jets.
  • Infotainment: Bluetooth/CarPlay/Android Auto, USB/12V power.
  • Reversing camera/sensors if fitted.
  • Accessories: Spare tire or repair kit, jack, tools, triangle; child seat (correct size, ECE label, tight fit; ISOFIX if available).
  • Keys: Working remote; ask about a spare or what to do if lost.

Mechanics and dashboard

  • Start the engine from cold: no warning lights (TPMS/engine/airbag), stable idle.
  • Odometer and fuel level: Photograph both.
  • Quick brake/steering check in the lot if possible (no strong pull or vibration).

Fuel type (avoid misfuelling)

  • Open the cap and photograph the label: “E20 OK,” “Gasohol 95 only,” or “Diesel/B7.”
  • Tell the attendant exactly what to fill at your first stop; keep fuel receipts.

Documentation that protects you

  • Video: 20–30 seconds walking around the car with plates visible (time/location stamped).
  • Mark every defect on the damage form and have staff initial it. Share the photos/video with the rental via WhatsApp for a timestamped trail.

Red flags to address before leaving

  • Low tire tread, warning lights, mismatched tires, wet carpets (leaks), or severe panel damage not on the sheet. Ask for a note, fix, or a different car.

Return-ready tips

  • Keep receipts (fuel, parking, fines). Arrive 10–15 minutes early for return photos. Match the fuel policy and snap final odometer/fuel shots.

Renting in Phuket? Check SunnyCars

  • New cars at low prices; delivery to your hotel or meet‑and‑greet at Phuket Airport.
  • Child safety seats; we’ll help you pick the right coverage and walk you through the pickup checklist.
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We’ll deliver the car where and when you need it—so you can drive off confident and covered