Renting a car in Spain is a great way to explore. Let's look at the essential vocabulary to help you secure the right vehicle and coverage.
Choosing your vehicle and terms
When deciding what to rent, you might need a rugged todoterreno (SUV). Check the contract's kilometraje (mileage) limits. If you plan to share the driving, ask to add a conductor adicional (additional driver).
| Yesterday we rented an SUV to go to the mountains. | Ayer alquilamos un todoterreno para ir a la montaña. |
| This contract has unlimited mileage. | Este contrato tiene kilometraje ilimitado. |
| We want to add an additional driver, please. | Queremos añadir un conductor adicional, por favor. |
Understanding your insurance
The basic rate usually includes standard insurance with a franquicia (excess or deductible). For complete coverage, you can opt for a policy a todo riesgo (fully comprehensive).
| The insurance has an excess of five hundred euros. | El seguro tiene una franquicia de quinientos euros. |
| We didn't choose the basic rate, but rather the fully comprehensive insurance. | No elegimos la tarifa básica, sino el seguro a todo riesgo. |
Fueling up and hitting the road
Rental companies usually require you to return the car with a full depósito (tank), so you will have to repostar (refuel) beforehand. Keep in mind that manual transmission is the default in Spain; you must specifically request an automático (automatic) if needed. On the road, watch out for the peaje (toll) on certain highways.
| One must return the vehicle with a full tank. | Hay que devolver el vehículo con el depósito lleno. |
| We have to refuel before entering the motorway. | Tenemos que repostar antes de entrar en la autopista. |
| Grandpa has never driven an automatic car. | El abuelo nunca ha conducido un coche automático. |
| We avoid the motorway in order not to pay the toll. | Evitamos la autopista para no pagar el peaje. |
Inspecting the paperwork and the car
Before you drive away, take a moment to read over your póliza (insurance policy). Always inspect the vehicle for any existing abolladura (dent) so you aren't charged for it later—even if you are just admiring your shiny new descapotable (convertible).
| Ma'am, would you like to read the insurance policy? | Señora, ¿quería leer la póliza del seguro? |
| The convertible had a huge dent. | El descapotable tenía una abolladura enorme. |
