Okay then, since my pal is a happy-go-lucky driver who wouldn't think to check anything and I don't know much about cars/vans, let's have a shortlist of things to check?
Before accepting vehicle, I can think of:
- washers/wipers not to problematic as you can refil if needed, wiper blades should clear the screen reasonably well though.
- tyres Should have full tread across width and at least 3mm of tread. Just run your fingers along the groves a little and you should feel the wear indicator bars. Check for cuts and bulges in the side walls.
- spare tyre As above.
- tyre pressures Check the user manual for the correct pressures for the load, can be very variable on a van. This can be done after hire and checked at the first chance. The 7.5 ton I last hired needed 120psi, only 60psi on one tyre, but the petrol station pump couldn't get it past 100psi.
- fuel level
- dashboard warning lights
- windscreen (no cracks) Small chips would be ok if less then teh size of a 5p IIRC and not in the driver's line of sight.
- check exterior of vehicle for dents and scratches
- lights Check they all work and lenses are not broken.
- insurance including cover for excess
- cover for breakdowns
- battery charge If it starts it shouldn't be a problem.
- engine starts first time Diesels can be smoky on start but should clear in seconds. They may also smoke briefly if reved hard.
- engine sounds fine when revving Again diesels can sound a little rattly but not a major issue.
- exhaust not blowing or hanging off
And bringing it back...
- check when vehicle can be returned (Ideally, on a Saturday evening)
- top up fuel
- clean interior to original condition
- make sure we don't leave anything in vehicle
Is there anything else important to look out for or remember to do?
Make sure all the controls are found and recognised. Many cars/vans are different and there is no point needing the lights or wipers and not know which switch it is. Dip/main is an important one as it the location of reverse on the gearstick and demisting controls.
Make your own note of the mileage at the start and end and check if there is cost for additional mileage if there is a limit.