The majority of people rent cars for vacations, travel, or business. One large rental car firm is Enterprise. If you smoke, you may worry whether it is allowed. Sadly, the response is no.
The company strictly prohibits smoking. Ignoring the regulations could cost more. Following the guidelines helps you stay free from charges and keep the car spotless.
This blog will explain Enterprise’s smoking policy. Here, you will know what happens if you smoke in a rental car.
Enterprise’s No-Smoking Policy
Enterprise does not allow smoking in any of its rental vehicles. The current rules cover all kinds of vehicles, including trucks, SUVs, and sedans. The policy covers vaping, cigars, and other kinds of smoking, including cigarettes.
If smoke or ash is found in the car, the renter must pay extra fees. Enterprise will charge for cleaning and damage.
Why Does Enterprise Ban Smoking in Rental Cars?
Enterprise enforces a no-smoking policy for several reasons. First, smoking leaves a strong smell that is hard to remove. Many renters prefer a clean and fresh-smelling car.
Furthermore, smoking can discolor the dashboard and seats or burn them. This damage can lower the value of the car.
In the end, some people suffer with allergies or breathing problems. Everybody will find a comfortable trip in a smoke-free car.
What Happens If You Smoke in an Enterprise Rental Car?
When you smoke in an Enterprise rental car, you can take the risk of fines:
- Cleaning Fee: Enterprise will charge you for complete car cleaning. This charge could be $50 to $2500 or more.
- Loss of Rental Privileges: If you repeatedly break the rules, Enterprise may refuse to rent to you in the future.
- Extra Charges: In case smoke harms the car’s interior, you might have to pay for repairs.
How Does Enterprise Detect Smoking in Rental Cars?
Enterprise employees check the car’s interior when you return it. They search for fire marks, tobacco ash, and a smoky scent. Smoke can cling to the fabric and ventilation system even if you try to mask the smell with air fresheners.
If any signs of smoking come across, you will be charged a cleaning cost. Every car should be fresh and neat for the next customer, according to Enterprise.
Can You Remove the Smoke Smell Before Returning the Car?
Before returning the car, some renters try to remove the smoke smell. Still, this isn’t always effective. Although they temporarily cover the smell.
But air fresheners and sprays do not totally remove it. Enterprise charges a fee for every need to remove smoke smells using professional cleaning techniques.
How to Avoid Cleaning Fees for Smoking?
Following the guidelines is the easiest approach to avoid cleaning costs. Inside the rented car, never smoke. If you smoke outside, close the windows and doors to stop the smells from going in.
Airing the car out could help if you mistakenly create a smoke smell inside it. Still, the best thing to do is not smoke close to the car.
What to Do If You Smell Smoke in a Rental Car?
- Check the car before driving off.
- If you smell smoke, tell the rental staff immediately.
- Ask for a different car if the smell is too strong.
- Take pictures or videos as proof.
- Write down the issue on the rental agreement.
- Contact customer service if needed.
- Do not try to remove the smell yourself.
- Keep all communication records for safety.
- Return the car as it is to avoid extra charges.
- Always inspect rentals before accepting them.
What Are Other Rental Companies’ Smoking Policies?
The no-smoking rules of most big rental car companies are similar. The companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and National are also banning smoking in their cars. If smoke is detected, everyone charges cleaning fees.
No matter which rental company you choose, do not smoke inside the car. It helps you avoid extra fees and keeps the car fresh. Following the guidelines will prevent any extra costs and maintain the car for the next renter in freshness.
Conclusion
You cannot smoke in Enterprise rental cars. The rule applies to cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and e-cigarettes. In case you smoke in the car, you could have to pay hefty cleaning costs and maybe face limitations.
Smoking outside the car in a safe area is the best approach to avoid extra fees. Before leaving, always look for any current smoke smells in your rented car.
These rules can avoid problems with your rented car. Following this, these vehicles will provide you a flawless and hassle-free experience.
FAQs
How does Enterprise handle smoking charges?
Enterprise will deduct the fee from your payment method. When you believe it is a mistake, you can get in touch with their customer support.
Is vaping allowed in an Enterprise rental car?
No! Vaping is also not allowed in Enterprise rental cars. If you do, then the same guidelines and fines hold.
If I smoke in an Enterprise rental, can they deny me a car next time?
Yes! They may decline to rent to you in the future, if you break the no-smoking policy multiple times.
Does the no-smoking rule cover all types of smoking?
Actually, the no-smoking ban covers all kinds of smoking. This covers vapes, e-cigarettes, smokes, and cigars.
Will air fresheners hide the smell of smoke in a rental car?
No! Even with air fresheners, Enterprise employees can still smell smoke.