FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ page. We understand that renting a car can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, which is why we compiled a series of questions and answers to the most common questions about Carwave rental services.
If you still have any unanswered queries, just head to our contact page and send us a message.
How can I make a reservation and what are the payment options?
To make a reservation, you need to pay either 20% of the total amount or the full amount upfront.
If you choose to pay the full amount in advance, you will receive a 5% discount.
If you pay only 20% initially, you can pay the remaining balance upon arrival using a debit card, credit card, or cash.
Do I need to refill the fuel tank?
Yes, we kindly request that you return the rental vehicle with the fuel tank at the same level as when it was provided to you. This means refilling the fuel tank prior to returning the car. By doing so, you avoid any additional charges for refuelling.
What types of payment methods are accepted?
We offer multiple payment options, including credit cards, cash, mobile payment services like Apple Pay or Google Pay, bank transfers, and Stripe for secure online transactions.
What happens if I need to cancel or modify my reservation?
If you need to cancel or modify your reservation, please contact us through either our live chat or email on our contact page as soon as possible. It’s important to review our cancellation and modification policy, as there may be applicable fees or restrictions depending on the timing and nature of the changes. We will do our best to accommodate your needs and help you find the best solution for your reservation.
What documents do I need to rent a car?
To rent a car from Carwave, it is necessary to present a valid passport or identification card (ID) as well as a valid driver’s license. Additionally, kindly note that you must hold a driver’s license for at least one year to meet the criteria.
Is there a minimum or maximum rental period?
The minimum rental period is just 1 day, allowing you to rent a car for shorter trips or quick getaways. Additionally, there is no maximum rental period, whether you need a vehicle for a day or longer, we are here to accommodate your requirements.
Is insurance included in the rental price?
Yes, your rental already includes basic insurance coverage. Moreover, please be aware that enhanced protection through SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver) is also included.
How old do I need to be to rent a car from Carwave?
To rent a car from Carwave, the minimum age requirement is 21 years old.
What type of fuel is allowed for the car rental?
Only Unleaded Petrol 95/98 is permitted when fuelling the car rental from Carwave. Please ensure to use these specified fuel types to maintain optimal performance and avoid any potential issues.
How and where do I return the rental vehicle?
When making your booking, you will have the option of choosing your preferred return location for the car at the end of your rental. These locations can be Madeira’s airport, hotels, or local accommodations, or you can opt to return the car directly to our office.
Does the SCDW insurance provided by Carwave Rental cover damages under all circumstances?
No, the SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver) insurance provided by Carwave Rental has exclusions. Damages incurred while the client is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or due to negligence, are not covered by the SCDW insurance. Please review the rental agreement for more details on coverage and exclusions.
Is there an extra charge for adding additional drivers?
Yes, there is a fee of 15€ per booking for each extra driver.
Are there any extra fees based on the client's age?
Yes, for clients between the ages of 19 and 25, there is an additional charge of 15 euros per day to cover insurance costs.
Are there any additional fees or charges I should be aware of?
Our rental rates cover most of the associated costs, it’s important to note that there may be additional fees or charges depending on certain factors, such as GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers. Other fees may also apply for late returns, fuel refills, or any damages incurred during the rental period. However, we provide transparent information regarding these charges during the booking process.
How do I contact Carwave's customer support if I have any issues or questions during my rental period?
If you have any issues or questions, there are two convenient ways to reach out to us. You can either send us an email to info@carwavemadeira.com, and we will promptly respond to assist you with your concerns or you can contact us through our live chat feature on our website where you can engage with a representative in real-time.
Can I extend my rental period if needed?
We understand that plans can change, and you may need to extend your rental period. If you find that you require more time with your rental vehicle, simply contact our customer support team as soon as possible, they will assist you in extending your rental period based on vehicle availability and provide you with the necessary information regarding any additional charges or adjustments to your reservation.
Are child seats or GPS navigation devices available for rent? What are the associated costs?
Yes, at Carwave, we offer child seats and GPS navigation devices for rent to ensure a convenient and safe journey for you and your family. The cost for renting these additional are listed while booking your rental.
Can I take the rental car off the island of Madeira?
Unfortunately, our rental cars are not allowed to be taken off the island of Madeira. Our rental services are limited to Madeira Island roads and destinations within Madeira Island itself.
Is there a mileage limit or additional charges for exceeding a certain distance?
We want you to have the freedom to explore without limits, that’s why we offer unlimited mileage for most of our rental vehicles.
You can drive as far as you desire without worrying about any additional charges or mileage limits.
What is the procedure for returning the rental car after-hours?
If you are unable to comply with the stipulated return time, please note that an additional fee will be added to your reservation. In the event of returning the rental car after-hours, we kindly ask you to inform Carwave in advance, follow the provided instructions, complete all necessary documentation, securely return the keys, and be mindful of possible additional charges.
Are pets allowed in the rental cars?
Unfortunately, we do not allow pets in our rental cars. We prioritize maintaining a clean and allergen-free environment for all of our customers. We understand that pets are part of the family, but to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers, we kindly request that pets remain outside the rental vehicles.
Is there any cancellation fee for reservations?
Yes, Carwave charges a cancellation fee. If you cancel your reservation, a fee of 20% of the reservation value will apply.