Frequently Asked Questions

General Rental Questions
  1. What are the minimum age and license requirements to rent a car?

    The minimum age to rent a car is 18 years old. The driver must hold a full, valid driving license for at least one year.

  2. Can I rent a car with a foreign driving license?

    Yes, if your license was issued within the European Community, it is accepted. If your license is from outside the EU, you must also present an International Driving Permit (IDP).

  3. Can someone else drive the rental car?

    Only the person listed on the rental contract and any additional drivers authorized by HOT WHEELS can drive the car. Additional drivers can be added for an extra charge of €5 per day.

  4. What payment methods are accepted?

    All payments must be made online via Apple Pay, Google Pay, Stripe, Credit Card or Cash. You must also book now pay on delivery and you may cancel  for free there are no cancellation fees.

  5. Is a credit card required for the rental deposit?

    No deposit required and therefore no Credit Card is required either.
  1. Are there any restrictions on how I can use the rental car?

    Yes. The rental car cannot be used for commercial purposes, subleased, used in races, for towing, or driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  2. Can I use the car for commercial purposes or ride-sharing services?

    No. The rental car cannot be used for carrying passengers or goods in a way that implies commercial activity.

  3. Am I allowed to drive the rental car off-road or in races?

    No. Driving off-road or participating in any type of race or sports activity with the vehicle is strictly prohibited.

  4. Can I transport pets in the rental car?

    No. Transporting animals of any species in the rental car is not allowed.

  5. What happens if I return the car late?

    A grace period of 1 hour is allowed. After that, a full additional rental day will be charged.
  1. What insurance coverage is included in the rental?

    The rental includes public liability and property damage insurance. However, damages to the rental car itself are the responsibility of the renter unless additional coverage is purchased.

  2. What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and is it required?

    CDW is a mandatory insurance that limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. It costs €5 per day and has an excess of €1500.

  3. What does the full Gold Insurance cover?

    Gold full insurance covers all damages with no excess charge. It costs €15 per day.

  4. Am I responsible for damages if the car is vandalized or stolen?

    Yes, unless you purchase Theft Waiver (TW) insurance. Otherwise, you are fully responsible for theft, vandalism, and damages caused by unknown persons.

  5. What happens if I have an accident with the rental car?

    You must report the accident immediately to the local police and gather all necessary details, including witness names and a sketch of the accident scene. Failure to do so makes you fully responsible for all damages.
  1. Is there a fee for additional drivers?

    Yes, additional drivers can be added for €5 per day.

     

  2. Are there extra charges for young drivers under 25?

    Yes, drivers under 25 years old must pay an additional charge of €5 per day.

     

  3. How are fuel charges handled?

    The car must be returned with the same amount of fuel it was received with. If returned with less fuel, a €30 penalty plus fuel costs will be charged.

     

  4. What are the after-hours pick-up and drop-off fees?

    A charge of €30 applies for vehicle collection or drop-off outside office hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 PM).

     

  5. Are there additional charges for hotel or airport pick-ups?

    Yes:
  • Airport vehicle collection: €10
  • Airport vehicle drop-off: €10
  • Hotel delivery within Funchal: €15 each way
  • Hotel delivery outside Funchal: €30 each way
  1. Can I extend or shorten my rental period?

    Yes, but you must request changes at least 24 hours in advance. Extensions will be charged at the initial rental rate. Shortening the rental may result in losing any discounts, and refunds are not guaranteed.

     

  2. Will I get a refund if I return the car early?

    No refunds are given for early returns.

     

  3. What happens if I need to cancel my booking?

    Cancellations must be communicated to HOT WHEELS. Refunds are subject to their policies, and some bookings may not be refundable.
  1. Do you offer baby seats or booster seats?

    Yes, baby seats and booster seats are available for €5 per day.

     

  2. Do you provide electric vehicle charging cards?

    Yes, if you rent an electric vehicle, a charging card will be provided. Any charges incurred will be billed to your credit card.

     

  3. Are toll charges included in the rental price?

    No, any toll charges incurred during the rental period will be billed to your credit card.
  1. Who is responsible for traffic fines or parking tickets?

    The renter is fully responsible for any fines received during the rental period. HOT WHEELS will charge the fine amount plus a €30 administrative fee.

  2. What happens if I put the wrong fuel in the car?

     A penalty of €600 will be charged for incorrect fuel use, plus any additional repair costs.

  3. Is there a penalty for returning the car dirty?

    Yes, a cleaning fee may be charged if the car is returned with excessive dirt, stains, or interior damage.
  1. What laws apply to the rental agreement?

    The rental agreement is governed by Portuguese law. In case of disputes, clients can turn to Centro de Arbitragem de Conflitos de Consumo da Região Autónoma da Madeira (CACCRAM) or the courts of Madeira.

  2. What should I do if I experience a breakdown or defect with the car?

    You must report any malfunction immediately to HOT WHEELS. If the breakdown is due to negligence (e.g., lost keys, battery discharge, or flat tires), you will be responsible for the service costs.

  3. How can I file a complaint about my rental experience?

    Complaints can be made through: