The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL: November ninth, with emergency road service for rental car mishaps.

Rental car breakdowns are relatively rare, at least in the U.S. and Western Europe. Major rental companies generally provide drivers with well-maintained vehicles and work to correct any problems before they affect a car's performance. But since no system is perfect and breakdowns do happen, here are a few rental tips.

Make it a point to visually check the car over inside and out for any obvious damage before you leave the lot. It's also wise to take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the car's basic operation and controls before you take it off the lot, especially if you're overseas.

If a problem does develop, the rental company's first goal should be to get you back on your way ASAP. Most firms have emergency road service and toll-free lines 24 hours a day. That number can usually be found on the rental agreement, key chain or on a sticker inside the car. If you happen to be near one of their offices, they should replace the disabled vehicle quickly. Otherwise, it may take a day. If you're on your way to an appointment, ask them to authorize a cab to get you where you're going and tell them where they can deliver a replacement car later.

If you're stranded by an accident or breakdown and the car must be towed, you'll need to get telephone authorization and find out where and by whom the service is to be done. Most rental companies will reimburse customers for oil, brake fluid and unauthorized minor repairs of less than $50, provided the claim is backed by appropriate receipts. But also know that no rental company accepts liability for inconvenience or loss caused by a breakdown of one of their cars.

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