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Driving Tips - Guerin
Car breakdown: prevention tips for all drivers
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If you find yourself in the situation where your car breaks down during the hire period, do you know what to do? In this article, we'll show you the first signs of a possible breakdown and how to prevent it. If you have any questions, such as how to rent a car, Guerin is here to help.
The first signs of a possible car breakdown
Owning a car can have many advantages, but the responsibility associated with it can be considered a disadvantage. This is also why rented cars are gaining more and more ground on the market as an alternative for those who don't want to commit to a car. One of the first responsibilities we learn as drivers is what to do in the event of car problems. However, we know that there are small warning signs that help us anticipate possible situations. Do you know how to recognise them? We'll help you.
Dashboard lights on: car problems?
One of the first signs that a car breakdown may be on the horizon is when one of the dashboard lights comes on. The colour that appears has a meaning. Red is associated with the most serious alert, and, for your safety, you should immediately immobilise the car and call for road assistance, especially if the light is on for the battery, oil or engine. If yellow appears, you should visit a garage as soon as possible. Get in contact with Guerin if you need help.
Noises: something's not right
Do you notice strange noises in your car while driving? This could be one of the first signs of a car breakdown. For example, if they happen when braking, it could indicate brake problems. It's always best to consult a garage.
Do you feel vibrations while driving?
Another indicator that your car may be faulty is when you feel vibrations in the steering wheel while driving. This could be a sign that your suspension or tyres are faulty.
Car breakdown: what to do if it's rented?
If during your hire with Guerin the car you have been allocated has broken down, please contact our Customer Service number immediately. Our team will help you with all the steps you need to take. If you prefer, you can talk to our virtual assistant - Guery - available on our website.
Firstly, assess the type of light on the dashboard (if yellow, contact Guerin and if red, contact Roadside Assistance, available in the car booklet).
However, knowing that unforeseen events can happen to anyone, we offer a series of protection packs that will make the whole process easier if You have a car breakdown.
Start by identifying the best cars for travelling. Then, during the booking process, you'll find the different packages available. If you prefer, you can visit one of the Guerin Stations or contact us by phone. Get to know them.
Pack Basic
This pack comes with any booking made. It includes excess and security deposit, but also theft and own damage cover.
Pack Light Gold
With this pack, the excess is halved, as is the compulsory deposit. As well as including the theft and damage cover of the basic pack, it also adds Premium Road Assistance and Glass and Wheel Protection, all with a 30 per cent discount.
Pack Premium Gold
This package is one of the most complete in terms of protection, combined with top-level travel assistance. It includes Excess Waiver, Glass & Wheel Protection, Premium Road Assistance (all with a 30% discount) and Super Protection on Car Hire, with a 50% discount. It also includes the pack Basic and Pack light which comes with a deposit of half the price.
Pack Platinum
Platinum is Guerin's most complete pack. It includes the Base Pack, as well as Excess Waiver, Premium Road Assistance, Glass & Wheel Protection with a 30% discount, Super Protection on Car Hire and Driver and Car Occupant Protection with a 50% discount.
Complementary Products: travelling assistance for broken down cars
Whether you're travelling with a baby, or you don't know your way around, Guerin has a range of complementary products to help you on your journey. We've divided these extras into three categories: protection, comfort and complementary products.
Protection Products
In the protection category, you'll find services such as our Premium Road Assistance, which is essential in the event of a car breakdown, as it allows you to be exempt from towing or on-site assistance costs (in Portugal or abroad). What's more, in the event of a lost key, change of fuel, battery failure or accident, you'll be exempt from costs. Also in this group, you can add Glass and Wheel Protection or opt for Premium Plus, which includes not only this protection - with a 50 per cent discount - but also exemption from the excess. Discover these and other protection products.
Comfort Products
In the comfort products category, you'll find the various child seats available to complement your short family trip or your next holiday with the little ones. What's more, so you never lose track of your journey, you can choose our GPS devices.
Additional Products
From tours to toll services. In our additional products you'll find a bit of everything to add peace of mind to your journeys. For example, if you don't want the booking holder to be the only one behind the wheel, you can always choose to add an Additional Driver.
Guerin: car hire for your adventures
Now that you know what to do if you have a car breakdown or how to protect your booking from unnecessary costs, Guerin can help you with much more. We want you to have a positive rental experience, with time for what you want most and less time queuing.
With our 100% digital rental process, you can manage every step of your booking via smartphone or the Guerin website. From booking, to filling in your contractual details, to picking up and returning the keys and the car itself, we've made the whole car hire experience autonomous. In just 9 minutes, have your selected car in your hands.
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