Rental Car Pickup Inspection in Egypt: A Practical Checklist

Before driving away in a rental car, walk around it with the representative, record visible marks, check the cabin and basic controls, and agree the starting fuel level and odometer reading. Keep the condition notes and photos together with the handover details. This is a practical record of what both sides saw, not a replacement for the rental agreement or a mechanical inspection.

For a pickup in Cairo, Giza or another agreed location in Egypt, allow time for that review rather than leaving it until everyone is ready to depart. A few clear notes are easier to use later than a hurried video with no explanation.

What should you photograph outside the car?

Start with a wide view of each side, then take closer photos of any visible scratches, dents or chipped paint. Look at the bumpers, mirrors, glass, lights and wheels. Ask the representative to note existing marks on the agreed handover record before you leave.

Use enough light for the condition to be visible. If the car is wet, dusty or in a dark parking area, ask to review any unclear area together. A close-up should show the mark, while a second, wider photo should show where it sits on the vehicle. Avoid including other people's faces or documents in your photographs.

Photos alone do not decide responsibility for damage. What matters is having a clear starting record that you and the team have reviewed, alongside the agreed terms.

What should you check inside?

Check the seats, trim, dashboard and luggage space for visible condition and any items agreed with the team. Try the seat adjustment, mirrors, seat belt and air conditioning while the car is stationary. Ask how to use unfamiliar lights, wipers, parking controls or the fuel-filler release before starting your trip.

If a warning remains lit after the normal startup sequence, or something looks unsafe, ask the representative to explain and resolve it before you drive away. Do not attempt repairs or assume that a photograph makes a safety concern acceptable. This checklist does not replace a professional assessment.

Which readings and terms belong in the handover record?

Record the starting odometer and fuel level, with a clear photo if useful, and compare them with the written handover details. El Fahd's current terms say fuel is the renter's responsibility and the car returns at the level recorded at pickup. The team confirms the included kilometres and any extra-kilometre charge for the chosen vehicle. See the fuel guide and mileage guide for those separate checks.

Also confirm the return date, time and location, plus the contact route if you need help. Review the written insurance coverage and its limits, rather than assuming every type of damage is covered. The current rental terms and common questions explain the published conditions; your confirmed vehicle and agreement still matter.

A short note you can use at pickup

1. Vehicle and handover: agreed vehicle, pickup date, time and place, plus return arrangements.

2. Starting readings: odometer and fuel level, with matching photos where useful.

3. Existing condition: location of each visible mark, relevant photo and the representative's recorded acknowledgement.

4. Ready to leave: basic controls explained, any unresolved concern addressed, and the team's support contact saved.

For example, “small mark on the left rear bumper, shown in a close-up and a full rear view” is more useful than “some scratches.” This is a note format you can adapt, not an official El Fahd form or a required inspection duration.

What if you notice something after leaving?

Contact the team promptly through the agreed channel, explain what you noticed and when, and keep the relevant photos and messages. If the issue could affect safe driving, stop in a safe place and ask for guidance before continuing. Do not assume coverage, authorise a repair or change the agreed vehicle arrangements without speaking to the team.

Keep the starting record for comparison when you return the car. For a new rental, explore the fleet and send your dates and pickup requirements. A website request still needs the team's approval of the dates and vehicle before the booking is confirmed.

Read this guide in Arabic.