What to Check Before Leaving the Car Rental Lot at KEF Airport

Before leaving the KEF rental lot, check the car’s exterior for damage, photograph all sides, inspect wheels and glass, confirm fuel or battery level, test the lights, set up mirrors and seat position, review your contract notes and confirm all damage is documented. 

Perform a quick interior check, verify the car category and features match your booking and make sure you understand how to operate the vehicle before driving away.

We recommend you also read up on our Iceland Car Rental Insurance

Why this matters

A careful inspection protects you from being held responsible for damage caused by previous renters. It also ensures your vehicle is safe and ready for Iceland’s unique road conditions. Most rental disputes occur because travelers rush this stage. A structured inspection prevents misunderstandings and gives you confidence before you enter the highway.

The KEF Departure Checklist

This list is designed to be fast, practical, and comprehensive. It covers the essentials without wasting time.

Step 1: Confirm the vehicle matches your booking

Check the model, transmission, fuel type, and category. Ensure the car has the luggage capacity you need and that all extras (GPS, Wi-Fi, child seats) are present. If anything is incorrect, resolve it at the desk immediately.

Step 2: Walk the exterior and check for body damage

Look for scratches, dents, scuffs, and marked areas around the doors, bumper corners, and rocker panels (bottom edges). Note any damage not already listed in your contract. Pro tip: Look for sand or ash damage on the lower paintwork.

Step 3: Photograph the car from five key angles

Take clear photos of the front corner, rear corner, both sides, and wheels. Take close-ups of any pre-existing marks. These photos are your proof of the car's condition at pickup.

Step 4: Inspect the wheels and tires

Look for worn tread, uneven wear, or curb damage to the rims. Icelandic roads often involve gravel; good tires are your first line of defense.

Step 5: Check glass and mirrors

Inspect the windshield carefully for tiny chips, cracks, or "stars." Check that side mirrors are stable and clear. Visibility is critical in Iceland’s shifting weather.

Step 6: Confirm fuel or battery level

Turn on the ignition and compare the actual fuel/charge level with what is listed in your rental agreement. It must match exactly.

Step 7: Test lights and indicators

Turn on headlights, high beams, indicators, and brake lights. Walk around the car to verify they work. You will likely encounter fog or dark conditions, making proper lighting essential.

Step 8: Review the interior condition

Check the upholstery, dashboard, center console, and trunk. Look for stains, burns, or missing parts to ensure they aren't attributed to your rental period.

Step 9: Master the controls before moving

Don't figure it out on the road. Adjust your mirrors, seat, and steering wheel, then confirm you know how to operate:

1. Headlights and High Beams
2. Wipers (Front and Rear)
3. Climate System (Defrost is vital)
4. Drive Mode Selector (Eco/Sport/Snow)
5. Parking Brake
6. Infotainment/GPS System

Step 10: Confirm documentation

Before driving away, ensure every item you found is noted in the digital or paper contract. If it’s not written down, it doesn’t exist. Documentation is your financial protection.

Quick Reference: Inspection Essentials

Category	What to Check	Why It Matters
Exterior	Scratches, dents, paint	Prevents liability for old damage
Wheels	Tread depth, rim scuffs	Critical for gravel/ice safety
Glass	Chips, cracks, stars	Chips can turn to cracks quickly
Fuel/EV	Exact gauge level	Must match contract to avoid fees
Controls	Lights, wipers, heat	Ensures safe operation in bad weather
Interior	Seats, cargo area	Avoids cleaning/damage fees

Vehicle-Specific Checks

For Electric (EV) & Hybrid Vehicles

• Cables: Confirm the correct Type 2 or CCS charging cable is present.
• Port Check: Ensure the charge port door opens and closes smoothly (ice can jam these).
• Range: Verify the displayed range matches your route to the first charger.

For 4x4 Vehicles

• Tires: Confirm the tires are suitable for highland (F-road) driving if that is your plan.
• Clearance: Check under the bumper for loose plastic panels from previous off-roading.
• Modes: Ask the agent how to engage 4WD/AWD and differential locks if you rented a 4x4 for a winter trip.

Your first minutes after leaving KEF

• Drive slowly as you exit the airport zone. Use this time to:
• Check for dashboard warning lights.
• Listen for unusual suspension noises or grinding brakes.
• Get a feel for the steering sensitivity.
• Check the current forecast on Vedur.is and road conditions on Road.is before heading out.

Final Advice

Structured inspection takes less than 10 minutes but provides peace of mind for your entire trip. By following this checklist, you leave the KEF rental lot confident, protected, and fully prepared to drive toward Reykjavík or your first adventure.