Wade Striplin, Author at VGC Auto Network

Exploring the Tech Features in Modern Rental Cars: A Guide to Infotainment and Connectivity Options

Posted on 08/01/2025 by Wade Striplin

Today’s rental cars are packed with tech features designed to make every journey safer, smoother, and a lot more entertaining. Whether you’re planning a long road trip or just a quick drive around the city, rental companies like Car Rental Belgrade are now offering vehicles with advanced infotainment and connectivity options to enhance your travel experience. Here’s a friendly guide to some of the most exciting tech features you’ll likely find in a modern rental car.

Touchscreen Infotainment Systems

The days of fiddling with clunky buttons are gone! Most modern rental cars now come with sleek touchscreen infotainment systems that make it easy to control your music, navigation, and more, all with just a tap. These touchscreens vary in size, but even standard rentals often come with a 7-inch display, and some models may even feature a spacious 12-inch screen.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the screen before hitting the road to avoid any distractions. Many systems have built-in “shortcut” menus that can help you navigate more efficiently!

Smartphone Integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)

Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have revolutionized the in-car experience. If your rental car supports these systems, you can easily connect your smartphone and access apps like Google Maps, Spotify, and even messaging, all displayed on the car’s infotainment screen. Voice commands allow you to keep your hands on the wheel while staying connected, giving you easy access to music, podcasts, and turn-by-turn navigation without taking your eyes off the road.

Pro-Tip: Bring your charging cable to ensure a smooth connection and to keep your phone charged throughout the drive.

Built-in Navigation Systems

While smartphone integration is popular, many rental cars still come with their own built-in navigation systems, often featuring larger screens and more detailed maps. Some cars also provide real-time traffic updates, helping you avoid congested areas and even offering alternative routes.

Advice: If you’re traveling in a remote area where cell service might be spotty, a built-in navigation system can be a lifesaver, as it won’t rely on cellular data.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Hotspots

Bluetooth is now a basic feature in almost all rental cars, allowing you to wirelessly connect your phone to stream music and make hands-free calls. Beyond Bluetooth, many newer rental models are equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots, which are especially useful for passengers who want to work or browse online during the drive.

Note: While some rental companies may include Wi-Fi as part of the rental package, others might charge extra for it. Be sure to check with the rental company about any additional fees if you plan to use the hotspot.

Voice Command and Virtual Assistants

Voice command features have come a long way, with virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant now available in some high-tech rental cars. These assistants allow you to control various aspects of the car, such as navigation, music, and even climate settings, all by simply speaking. Using voice commands can help you stay focused on the road without the need to interact physically with the infotainment system.

Advanced Safety and Driver-Assist Features

Beyond infotainment, tech-driven safety features are becoming standard in many rental cars. Look out for driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and collision detection, which can make driving safer and less stressful, especially in unfamiliar areas. Many of these features also integrate with the infotainment display, showing visual alerts to keep you aware of potential hazards.

Tip: Spend a few minutes reviewing these features before setting out to understand how they work. Knowing their limitations will also help you avoid relying too heavily on them.

In Conclusion

With so many features available, it’s worth taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the infotainment and connectivity options before you hit the road. Whether it’s setting up your navigation, pairing your phone, or learning the voice commands, a quick overview can save you time and improve your driving experience.

Renting a Car in Belgrade: Things You Should Really Look for When Inspecting

Posted on 02/09/2024 by Wade Striplin

Imagine you’re on a business trip or vacation in Belgrade and need to rent a car—not just any car, but a perfect car for your needs. You want a car that will provide you with the best possible experience during your stay in this beautiful city. But what if you end up renting a car that is not well-maintained or not suitable for your needs?

Or even worse, you get scammed by the car rental company? These scenarios can easily be avoided if you’re familiar with what to look for when inspecting a rental car. Here are some things you should really pay attention to when renting a car in Belgrade.

Exterior Damage

Are you looking to Rent a Car Beograd? Before signing the dot, take a moment to examine the exterior closely. Look for any dents, scratches, or rust spots that might have been overlooked. These imperfections can tell you about how well the vehicle has been cared for.

Don’t forget to check the paint job as well. Uneven patches or peeling paint could signify previous accidents or poor maintenance. Moreover, pay attention to the windows and mirrors too. Cracks or chips not only affect visibility but might also lead to potential problems during your trip.

Fluid and Fuel Levels

When renting a car, checking fluid and fuel levels is essential. It’s not just about gas; other fluids play critical roles in vehicle performance. So, you need to start with the engine oil. A dipstick will reveal if it’s at the right level and color. Dark or gritty oil could indicate neglect.

Next up are coolant and brake fluids. These are vital for safety and efficiency on your journey. Low levels may suggest leaks or inadequate maintenance. Don’t forget windshield washer fluid—visibility matters as much as speed! As for fuel, confirm you know what type the vehicle requires. Returning it with less than a full tank can lead to unexpected charges. These checks ensure you’re driving a reliable vehicle that won’t let you down while exploring Belgrade’s vibrant streets.

Tire Condition

When renting a car, tire condition is often overlooked but crucial for safety. However, many people often overlook it, thinking the tire condition doesn’t really matter. Tires with worn-out treads can lead to poor traction, especially in wet conditions. Moreover, you need to look for any visible cracks or bulges on the sidewalls. These signs indicate potential tire failure and should raise red flags. If you have a chance, take the car for a short drive around the lot. Listen for unusual noises and feel how it handles turns and bumps.

Lights and Signals

Lights and signals, on the other hand, are crucial for safe driving and proper communication on the road. Start by checking the headlights. Ensure both high and low beams function properly. This is vital, especially if you plan to drive at night or in poor weather conditions. Next, examine the brake lights. Press down on the brake pedal while someone observes from behind. All lights should illuminate brightly without flickering or dimming. Turn signal indicators deserve attention, too. Activate them one side at a time; they should blink consistently without hesitation.

Interior Cleanliness and Condition

Trust me. It’s such a big ick if you drive a dirty car, not only the exterior but also the interior. For anyone, the first impression matters. So, keep in mind to look around and take note of the cleanliness. A tidy interior reflects attention to detail from the rental agency. You can also check if there are any lingering, strange odors that can be unpleasant during your drive. Musty smells or remnants of fast food are red flags. You deserve a fresh environment while on the road. Inspect seats and upholstery closely for stains or damage. Rips or tears not only affect comfort but also indicate poor maintenance practices.

When renting a car in Belgrade, being thorough during your inspection is vital. Each detail matters, from exterior damage to the condition of tires and lights. So, are you really looking for a smooth journey? Don’t forget to follow these steps.

Reasons You Shouldn’t Skip a Car Inspection Before a Road Trip

Posted on 02/03/2024 by Wade Striplin

Are you ready to hit the road for your next adventure? Before you rev up the engine and set off on that epic road trip, there’s one crucial step you should pay attention to a comprehensive car inspection. Ensuring your vehicle is in top shape can make all the difference between a smooth journey and unexpected bumps along the way. Let’s delve into why skipping a car inspection before hitting the road is simply not an option.

Safety

When it comes to embarking on a road trip, safety should always be your top priority. A thorough car inspection can uncover potential issues that could compromise your safety on the road. From checking tire pressure and tread depth to examining brake pads and fluid levels, each component plays a crucial role in keeping you safe during your journey. Don’t overlook the importance of ensuring all lights are working correctly – from headlights to turn signals. Clear visibility is key for safe driving, especially during inclement weather or nighttime travel. Additionally, inspecting seat belts for wear and tear is essential to protect both yourself and your passengers in case of an accident.

Reliability

When hitting the road for a trip, reliability is key. You want to be able to trust that your vehicle will get you to your destination without any unexpected breakdowns or issues along the way. A car inspection before your journey can help identify and address any potential problems before they become major headaches on the road. By ensuring that all components of your car are in good working condition, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth and stress-free travel experience. From checking the brakes and tires to examining the engine and fluids, a thorough inspection can give you peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is reliable and ready for the miles ahead. Don’t underestimate the importance of reliability when it comes to road trips.

Peace of Mind

Imagine hitting the open road and feeling confident that your car is in top shape. No worrying about unexpected breakdowns or issues popping up along the way. That’s the peace of mind a thorough car inspection before a road trip can bring you. Knowing that a professional has checked your vehicle from bumper to bumper gives you reassurance as you embark on your journey. It allows you to focus on enjoying the drive and making memories with your loved ones rather than stressing about what could go wrong. Peace of mind also comes from knowing that you’ve taken proactive steps to ensure your safety and that of your passengers.

Longevity

Ensuring the longevity of your vehicle is crucial for its overall performance and value. By conducting a thorough inspection before hitting the road, you can identify any potential issues that may affect the long-term health of your car. From checking fluid levels to inspecting the brakes and tires, every aspect plays a role in maintaining your vehicle’s longevity. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your car but also helps prevent costly repairs down the line. Addressing minor problems early on can prevent them from escalating into major issues that could significantly impact your vehicle’s longevity.

Additionally, regular inspections can help you stay on top of any wear and tear, allowing you to address them promptly and keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Don’t let a skipped car inspection ruin your road trip. Taking the time to ensure your vehicle is safe, reliable, and in good condition can make all the difference in having a stress-free journey. By prioritizing safety, reliability, peace of mind, and longevity through a thorough inspection before hitting the road, you’re protecting yourself and your passengers and investing in your vehicle’s long-term health. So, next time you’re gearing up for a road trip adventure, remember that a little preventative maintenance can go a long way. Happy travels.

Enjoy the Best Road Trip in Macedonia With These Types of Vehicles

Posted on 12/03/2023 by Wade Striplin

With a landscape of awe-inspiring mountain views and rolling hills, plus plenty of destinations that are sure to leave lasting memories, it’s no wonder why so many people choose this beautiful country for their next vacation. And with various types of vehicles available when you Rent a Car Macedonia, especially if you want something convenient to take you wherever your heart desires, chances are you’re wondering which type would be best suited for your journey. We’ve got you. Today, we’re going to explore every pros and cons of the best vehicle options for enjoying your road trip. Let’s get started.

Motorhome

Ah, who can’t deny the convenience and the luxury of a motorhome? Most motorhomes come with everything you need for the perfect road trip – comfortable beds, cooking facilities, a refrigerator, and plenty of storage. Plus, there are some models that even have bathrooms and showers. One great thing about using this type of vehicle is that you can truly have your home on wheels – no need to worry about finding a place to sleep after a long day of sightseeing. On the downside, motorhomes tend to be more expensive than other types of vehicles, and they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. That’s why the other options below may fall in your favor.

Vans

If you’re traveling with a group, then vans are obviously your best bet. They provide extra space for passengers and items, plus they can hold more luggage than a regular car. Some vans also come outfitted with amenities that make your road trip even better – such as LCD TVs, sound systems, AC/heating, and so on. But if you’re not traveling with a group, then it’s best to stick to something smaller; vans don’t provide the best economy when you’re traveling solo or with just one other person. Just think vans are a smaller and much cheaper option than motorhomes.

SUVs

But what if you’re planning to hit the dirt and take on some off-road adventures? Then SUVs are certainly the way to go. They’re great for tackling all sorts of terrain, which makes them ideal for getting around if you’re planning to explore and discover hidden gems. Plus, they come with 4WD, giving you extra control when driving in more challenging conditions. On the downside, they can be quite noisy, and fuel consumption isn’t the best. Just be sure to plan your route accordingly so you can make full use of their off-road capabilities.

Convertibles

If you’re someone who loves to feel the wind in their hair, then a convertible is undoubtedly the right choice for you. Convertibles offer nothing but pure pleasure and excitement – imagine driving on a beautiful sunny day with the top down and the wind blowing through your hair. Plus, most convertibles come with an automatic transmission and good fuel economy to help you save up on costs. The only downside is that in colder weather, the top can be quite cold and uncomfortable.

And that’s it. These are the most popular vehicles for a Macedonian road trip. Besides these options, remember that you may still choose a compact car. Compact cars are so much more maneuverable, plus they offer great fuel economy – perfect for those who are trying to keep costs low. Whichever type of vehicle you go for, just remember that your road trip experience is only as good as the car you’re in, so make sure you choose wisely.

Advantages of Working with a Professional Mechanic

Posted on 01/04/202201/04/2022 by Wade Striplin

If you’re like most people, you probably know little about cars. And even if you know a little, that doesn’t mean you’re qualified to fix them yourself. Trying to fix your car without a professional mechanic’s help can cost you more money in the long run. Here are just a few of the many advantages of working with a professional mechanic.

Training and Expertise

If you try to fix your car yourself, you may worsen the problem. Or, you may not fix it at all. Professional mechanics have the training and experience necessary to resolve cars quickly and correctly. This means that you can save time and money by relying on their expertise.

They know to detect and fix even the most complex car problems. You don’t want your car in the hands of someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. Even the most complex car problems can be resolved quickly and easily with the proper tools and techniques.

Equipment and Tools

Professional mechanics also have access to the latest tools and equipment. This means that they can fix your car quickly and correctly. They don’t have to waste time searching for the right tool or trying to fix a problem with the wrong device.

Warranty and Guarantees

Most professional mechanics offer a warranty or guarantee for their work. This means that if there are any problems with their result, they will fix them. It is another way to save time and money by working with a professional mechanic. Also, knowing that the work done is guaranteed can help put your mind at ease.

Knowledge and Experience

As we mentioned earlier, professional mechanics have the training and experience necessary to fix cars quickly and correctly. It means that you can trust them to take care of your car. They know what they’re doing, and they won’t damage your car while trying to fix it. Most professional mechanics are passionate about cars and take pride in their work. They want your car to run as smoothly as possible, and they will do everything they can to make sure that it does.

Access to Parts

Professional mechanics also have access to a wide variety of car parts. This means that they can fix your car quickly and easily. If they don’t have the right part, they can easily order it and deliver it to their shop. It is another way to save time and money by working with a professional mechanic.

So, as you can see, there are many advantages to working with a professional mechanic. If you’re unsure if a professional mechanic is right for you, ask around. Chances are, you know someone who has used a professional mechanic in the past, and they can tell you what their experience was like.

Car Rental Benefits

Posted on 20/07/202019/01/2021 by Wade Striplin

Cars are quite important because of how they simplify our movements from place to place. You will travel to different places smoothly in the car. Vehicles make it easy for you to run several errands. You can buy one to enjoy the benefits. Owning a car is a tough choice for many because of strained finances. You may lack enough funds to buy one or even carry out different maintenance practices needed for vehicles. This should not stop you from moving around in one because you can opt for a rental service.

Vehicle rentals make it easy for you to move aroundYou should look for one with a variety of vehicles to choose from. The other thing to consider is the amount they are charging for their rental services. Rates may vary depending on a variety of factors like the type of vehicles you choose and time to cover.

Most companies will charge on an hourly basis. You can compare prices to choose the one that is charging reasonably for such a service. Go through the terms of agreement of a specific rental service to know what is needed when hiring their cars. There are several benefits you are going to enjoy when you rent a car. They include:

Comfortable Travel

You are going to travel in style and comfort despite not being able to own a vehicle. With a few coins, you will be able to hire an automobile and run different errands smoothly. This is a better compared to using public means of transportation.

Saves You Money

You will save a lot of money and also travel in style when you rent a vehicle. It is the right option if you are going as a group. You can combine efforts to hire a car and also fuel it. It is a better option compared to using public transport because you will also travel in style.

Smooth Movements

You will have a smooth time moving from one place to another, which is usually not the case when you opt for other means of transport. You can easily make stops wherever you want or switch to different routes. Car rentals also make it easy for you to traverse different parts of your country. How about you opt for a car rental to enjoy the benefits.

How to Improve Your Vehicle Security

Posted on 04/09/201807/05/2019 by Wade Striplin

Owning a vehicle is no longer a luxury these days compared to decades ago when there were only a few of them spotted on the streets. However, the fact that the majority of the people are now becoming the owners of the machined carriage, it does not necessarily mean the number of theft have automatically decreased. In fact, the number of such crime has increased over the past ten years.

We cannot blame the technology for providing the much easier ways of such illegal acquisitions as it has always come side by side with the positive impacts of technology. Instead, those owners always have the option of improving their cars’ and motorcycles’ security by following these steps. This way, the number of the loss will eventually get off as their awareness of their vehicle’s safety places the top priority.

Dashboard Camera

It is now becoming a general thing to do to set up a dashboard camera in your car. One thing to note, do not forget to check the camera to avoid any unwanted incident regularly. Another critical thing to remember is the access to the recordings which must be available within your reach so that you can access them whenever you want no matter wherever you are.

Double Lock

It is always wise to double or even triple up your car’s security by placing additional locks on them. For this, all those owners need to thank technology for offering one great solution for their safety problems. With the massive developments of the antirrobo de motos, they can finally breathe a sigh of relief as their concerns will hit the lowest point.

One intriguing thing about this development is that it allows the owners to increase the security and control them from any device within their reaches such as a computer, laptop, or mobile phone. Therefore, it is indeed much easier nowadays to feel secure about your cars and motorcycles parked outside of your residence all night.

Alarm

There are times when the bad guys seem to be too smart for all the safety devices you install on your cars. Thus, it is always beneficial to put another layer of security on them as a way to improve the security. Alarm, then, will make an excellent choice since it will notify you in no time every time an unauthorized individual makes unnecessary contacts with your cars. It will not only alarm you, but it will also alarm the entire neighborhood.

How to Prepare for Your First Driving Lesson

Posted on 27/05/201831/10/2019 by Wade Striplin

Learning to can be fun, and it’s a great thing to do. But it’s also a great thing to be prepared. In this article, we’re going to be giving you tips on how to prepare for your first ever driving lesson.

Have a Provisional Driving License

You may think this sounds super obvious, but make sure you own a provisional driving license and have it ready to take with you to your first lesson. Every credible driving instructor will check that, read it and look at it thoroughly to make sure that you are legally able to learn to drive.

Research Driving Instructors

The next tip is to research driving instructors within your area. Get recommendations from friends, family, colleagues or look online at reviews; preferably not from the website, but look at reviews from previous clients. Just make sure that you’re checking out that your instructor is credible. Maybe they’ve got reviews on Facebook or Instagram, but make sure that you’re going with a driving instructor that has a good reputation.

Have an Eye Test

Next up is another tip that might sound a bit “imprudent” but it’s really important. If you haven’t had an eye test within two years prior to starting your driving lessons, then make sure that you get yourself an eye test because obviously, you need to see for safety. In the start of your lessons and your test, they will ask you to read a number plate from a certain distance, and you need to be able to read this correctly. Otherwise, you’re a not going to be able to learn with that instructor because they want you to be safe and you won’t pass your test if you can’t read the number plate correctly. So make sure to get your eyes tested and make sure that you bring your glasses whatever it is you need to see properly.

Learn The Basics

Another piece of advice I would give you guys if you want your lessons to progress and not take ages learning the basics is to know which pedal does what and how. The one to the far right is the accelerator, but what does that mean to you? What does the accelerator do? Additionally, be sure that you know the cockpit drill. That is something that the instructor will go through with you. If you know it or you’ve read through it and have a basic concept of it, that will help you out and give your instructor a little bit of confidence in you.

Don’t Worry Too Much

The last piece of advice isn’t necessarily how to prepare, but it’s just a little bit of warning that it is so normal to be shattered after your first few driving lessons. It’s so normal to be tired after your first 1 hour or 50-minute lesson. To make you relax during the driving lesson, remember to wear comfy shoes. Make sure to wear something that is not going to slip off or slip off the pedal suddenly.

Conclusion

You are using your brain and your body in a way that you haven’t used it before. So don’t worry, it’s so normal to need a nap afterwards and to be absolutely shattered. I hope you found these tips useful.