Questions and Answers - Cheap Cape Town Car Rental, South Africa Car Rental Right Here!

Your South Africa Car Hire Questions Answered (for First Car Rental)

How much are your Car rental rates?

The latest Cape Spirit First Car rental rates can be viewed at the following secure online booking page:

Unlimited KM Car Hire Booking Page

Once you have made your online booking and received online confirmation, your rate and car are secured.

Who is Cape Spirit™ ?

Read more about Cape Spirit™ here

Who is First Car Rental South Africa?

First Car Rental is owned and financially backed by the Combined Motor Holdings Group (CMH) - a leading JSE-listed (since 1987) Public Retail Company with annual revenue of R4.4 billion rand.

First Car Rental boasts a fleet of 6 000 vehicles and over 27 South African branches, including branches at all major South African airports and business/tourist destinations.

Rental Cars are less than 1 year old - low mileage and new.

Competitive pricing - book online through Cape Spirit™ and save!

Free 24 Hour Roadside Assistance.

Dedicated, quality driven Employees.

Vehicles are serviced according to manufacturers timetables and specifications - excellent condition.

The CMH Group owns 80 motor vehicle dealerships countrywide thus allowing First Car Rental to source vehicles at short notice. First Car Rental purchase 90% of their vehicles directly from the manufacturers and have excellent working relationships with these manufacturers.

First Car Rental has a proven track record. Over the past 10 years the local entity has won numerous global awards, including the prestigious “Best Overall Country” on two occasion.

Why choose First Car Rental ? Read more here

When can I reserve a car for ?
You can book a Car through Cape Spirit™ for any rental starting any time in 2011 and 2012.

We recommend that you book your car well in advance for any 2011 holiday season, and if your rental is longer than 4 days throughout the year.

What Car Rental locations are on offer ?

You can book a Car through Cape Spirit™ from and to any of the following locations: (our service is NOT limited to the Cape)

Cape Provinces Car Rental: Cape Town Airport, Cape Town City Downtown, Rondebosch, Bellville, Stellenbosch, East London Airport, Port Elizabeth Airport, George Airport (Garden Route), Kimberley Airport, Upington Airport (Kalahari Park), Umtata / Mthatha Airport
Gauteng Car Rental: Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport, Pretoria Hatfield, Menlyn Pretoria, Sandton, Midrand, Boksburg, Randburg / Bryanston, Kempton Park, Lanseria Airport
KZN Car Rental: King Shaka International Airport, Durban City Downtown, Pietermaritzburg Airport (Oribi Airport), Richards Bay Airport, Umhlanga Ridge, Pinetown, Southbroom
Mpumalanga Car Rental: Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (Nelspruit Airport), Witbank
Limpopo Car Rental: Polokwane
North West Province Car Rental: Klerksdorp
Free State Car Rental: Bloemfontein Airport

VIEW A DETAILED LIST OF FIRST CAR RENTAL BRANCHES HERE

What makes Cape Spirit™ and First Car Rental more likely to provide a superior Car Rental Reservation experience?

Our competitive unlimited KM rates, excellent quality cars, easy online bookings, instant email confirmation, friendly and effective customer support, honest approach (we give you all the info to know exactly how much you will pay) and 24 hour free roadside assistance are just a few of the reasons why you should book your Car at Cape Spirit™. First Car Rental is part of and financially backed by the CHM Group with an annual revenue of R 4.4 billion. Cape Spirit™ is a proud Member of SATSA (and bonded by SATSA), the USA based Africa Travel Association (ATA), the UK based African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA), ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents - USA Based) and Cape Town Tourism, and is the largest car rental agency for First Car Rental Western Cape. Cape Spirit™ is the preferred website for travellers looking for cheap unlimited mileage South Africa car hire and great Customer service for over 5 years, and you can save on your car hire cost and have peace of mind too by booking through us.

What do your past Customers say about the Cape Spirit™ / First Car Rental Service?

Read our Customer feedback here

Is it safe to book a Car with Cape Spirit™ / First Car Rental and why should I trust your Company to fullfill your promises?

Yes ! Your personal details are secured by THAWTE, a Global Trusted 3rd Party.

You book directly onto First Car Rental's live and secure system. First Car Rental is owned and financially backed by the Combined Motor Holdings Group (CMH) - a leading JSE-listed (since 1987) Public Retail Company with annual revenue of R4.4 billion rand.

Cape Spirit™ is a proud Member of SATSA (and bonded by SATSA), the USA based Africa Travel Association (ATA), the UK based African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA), ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents - USA Based) and Cape Town Tourism, and is the largest car rental agency for First Car Rental.

You can rest assure that a car will be available for you on arrival at the Car Rental office once you have received your Reservation voucher into your email.

View our Customer feedback here

I have never hired a Car from Cape Spirit™ / First Car Rental before. How do I Book a Car?

To get the best possible car hire rates, book your car online through Cape Spirit™. To book a Car online please follow the following 3 easy steps:

1. Read through the important info at our Car Rental Page and on this Question and Answer page to get a clear understanding of our service and requirements
2. Read and accept the Important Car Hire Info and First Car Rental Terms and Conditions as you will hire the Vehicle from First Car Rental
3. Book your car online at our Unlimited KM Car Rental Booking Page For booking assistance please contact us.

What are the requirements to hire a car from Cape Spirit™ / First Car Rental ?

You will be asked to produce the following documents when collecting the Car. Please note that all these documents must be produced during the collection of your car, whether you have made prepayment for your rental or not.

1. Your ID / Passport
2. Your valid Credit Card - Visa, Mastercard, Diners Card or American Express (The Credit Card MUST be in the name of the Main Driver and must be presented during collection and return of the vehicle. Local and International credit cards are welcome. The Credit Card must be embossed (i.e. have raised number digits on the card) No Debit Cards or Cash accepted. No vehicles will be issued without a Credit Card in the Main Driver's name)
3. Your valid Driver’s license
4. Your Rental Voucher / Booking Confirmation (that you will receive into your email just after online reservation)
5. The Main Driver MUST be present during the collection of the Car

Driver/s must be 23 years or older. Driver/s must have legally driven in their home country for at least three years prior to renting a vehicle. Drivers younger than 23 years will be charged a Young Driver Surcharge of R150 per day (incl VAT), and must have legally driven in their home country for at least three years prior to renting a vehicle.

For security reasons, when renting car groups D, E, F, G, I, Z, K, Y, Q, First Car Rental may require additional methods of identification or conduct a security check to the Branch Manager's satisfaction before the special vehicle type is released to the Renter. Contact Cape Spirit if you require more info.

No cash or debit cards including Maestro and Electron debit cards are accepted. (South African credit cards - please note that budget facility transactions are not allowed - only straight transactions)

I am a Foreign Citizen / International Tourist visiting South Africa. Can I book a car through Cape Spirit™ and do I require any additional documents?

Yes, many International Tourists and Citizens book through us.

International Customers:
You will be required to apply for an International Drivers license (in English) if your Drivers License is not in English. Alternatively you can also get an English translation from your Traffic Department in your home country (on the Traffic Department's official letterhead / stamped / certified by your Traffic Department) if your drivers license is not in English. All other requirements and terms and conditions remain the same. Please take your Original Drivers License together with your International Drivers license OR your Original Drivers License together with the Official English translation from your local Traffic Department to South Africa.

If your drivers license is in English you do not have to apply for an International Drivers license or translation - just bring your valid drivers license in English with you.

Do you offer an easy-to-use, real time rate search and reservation system?

Yes, the live booking system offering instant online booking confirmation is located at our Unlimited KM Car Hire Booking Page

Do I need to do anything else after booking my car on Cape Spirit™ ?

No, once your booking (reservation number) has been confirmed into your email you are not required to do anything else. Please just ensure that all details on your booking confirmation are correct - i.e. date, time, branch location, car group and rental package. Your booking and reservation number will be confirmed into your email within 1 minute after you have booked online, and a vehicle model (within your reserved car group) will be kept for you and ready for collection on your arrival time and date at the specified branch location on your reservation.

Just bring your required documents to the First Car Rental Office (exact location and contact details to be emailed to you after online reservation or view detailed branch info here) and your vehicle will be ready for collection.

You do not need to confirm your booking before arrival again - if your car is booked and you have received your email confirmation with your reservation number, it is booked and confirmed and will be honored. You can rest assure that a car will be available for you on arrival at the Car Rental office once you have received your Reservation voucher into your email. (If you do not receive your Reservation voucher into your email after online reservation please contact Cape Spirit immediately)

What is the availability of Cars and will my reservation be honored ?

You can view live availability on our live booking system located at our Unlimited KM Car Rental Booking Page. Once you have received your booking confirmation with a reservation number into your email, your reservation will be honored. A car model within your reserved car group will be kept for you and will be ready for collection at the specific branch location on your reservation, on your arrival time and date.

When will I be billed for the rental ? / How do I pay for my car rental ?

You can choose to pay only upon vehicle collection (i.e. no prepayment required - this is the recommended option), OR immediately during online reservation / time of booking (full prepayment). You will be billed by First Car Rental. There is no difference in the rental amount if you choose to pay on arrival or during time of booking. (Please note that all Western Cape and Eastern Cape Car Hire between 15 Dec and 3 Jan, requires full prepayment to confirm your reservation. Full prepayment may also be required for some high season periods in other locations)

Payment option 1 (Pay when I collect the vehicle - we recommend this option): If you choose to pay only upon vehicle collection (and not during time of booking), you will receive instant booking confirmation that a car has been reserved for you. You can rest assure that a car will be available for you on arrival at the Car Rental office once you have received your Reservation voucher into your email. You will pay for your rental upon vehicle collection at the Rental office. (Please choose option 1 for all Long term rentals longer than 30 days. If you choose this payment option, long term car rentals get billed on a monthly basis over your credit card, and not the full amount at once.) (Please note that all Western Cape and Eastern Cape Car Hire between 15 Dec and 3 Jan, requires full prepayment to confirm your reservation. Full prepayment may also be required for some high season periods in other locations)

Payment option 2 (Pay now online with a credit card): If you choose to pay for your car rental during the time of booking (prepayment), please note that the pre-paid amount is non-refundable (When amending to a lower amount, or if entire booking is cancelled, before or after vehicle collection.) If you choose to make prepayment during online reservation, please note that the Main Driver still requires a credit card upon vehicle collection. Please also note that the prepaid amount relates to your rental amount only, and does not include extras like the R45 contract fee, one way fee, additional drivers, baby seats, young driver surcharge, cross border fees and other extra items (mostly not applicable) - this will be charged over the Main Driver's credit card when you return the car to the rental office.

Please note it is compulsory to have a valid credit card in the name of the Main Driver and bring it to the Car rental office during the collection of your car. (for both payment option 1 and 2). No cash or debit cards are accepted.

Where do I collect my Car and what will happen when I arrive there ?

You will collect your Car at the First Car Rental at your selected Branch location. You will receive directions and phone contact details for the specific First Car Rental Branch on your booking confirmation that will be emailed to you after online reservation. You can also view detailed Branch info here.

When you arrive at the Branch your Car Rental Contract will be ready for signature and you will be assisted by the professional and friendly First Car Rental Staff. You will be asked to produce your Credit Card, Valid Drivers License, Rental Voucher / Booking Confirmation and ID / Passport. Your Excess amount (R 0 for Executive Cover, R 4 000 for Super Cover, R7 000 for Standard Cover), Fuel Deposit (R2000) and Rental amount (if not already prepaid) will be authorised over your Credit Card, and the Excess amount and Fuel Deposit will be refunded back to you (released back onto your credit card) when returning the Car. (See info below for Excess and Fuel deposit details, as well as how to calculate your exact Rental Amount and Deposit)

You will inspect the Car with a First Car Rental Staff Member before and after the rental. Please keep the blue vehicle inspection sheet that you will receive from the Staff Member in a safe place, as you will need to show this when returning the car.

What rates options are on offer?

Cape Spirit™ and First Car Rental offer the following rate options:

Unlimited KM Per Day Executive Waiver (Zero Excess Deposit) (please note that executive cover is not available for weekend-only rentals)
Unlimited KM Per Day Super Cover (R 4 000 Excess Deposit)
Unlimited KM Per Day Standard Cover (R 7 000 Excess Deposit)

You will find the rates charged for our vehicles appropriate and competitive.

(Please choose payment option 1 "Pay when I collect the vehicle" for all Long term rentals longer than 30 days. If you choose this payment option, long term car rentals get billed on a monthly basis over your credit card, and not the full amount at once.)

What is included and excluded in your Car Hire rates?

Our Car Hire rates with First Car Rental include the following:

Car with Executive Cover (zero excess) or Standard Cover (with excess) or Super Cover (with excess)
14% VAT / TAX included
1 % Tourism Levy / Tax included
9 % Airport Surcharge / Tax included
Unlimited Km / Mileage included
Theft Lost Waiver (TLW) included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) included
24 hour Roadside Assistance included
Book now, only pay when collecting your car* (or choose to pay during online reservation - you choose when you want to pay for your car rental)

*Please note that all Western Cape and Eastern Cape Car Hire between 15 Dec and 3 Jan, requires full prepayment to confirm your reservation. Full prepayment may also be required for some high season periods in other locations.

Our South Africa Car Hire packages exclude the following standard items: (relevant on all rentals)

-Refundable fuel & windscreen deposit of R 2000 - only authorised during collection of the car and released back onto your credit card when you return the car
-R 45 (incl VAT) contract fee per rental (not per day)
-Optional Personal Accident Benefit (PAB): R16 per day (optional - please buy this at car rental counter if required)
-Windscreen Breakage-, Glass-, Mirrors-, Windows-, Water-, Undercarriage-, Water Damage-, Tyre-, Rim-, Hubcap Damage is not covered

Our Car Hire packages exclude the following "other / extra" items: (for most rentals this is not relevant)

-Additional Driver R 190 (incl VAT) per rental (not per day)
-One Way Fee (if you collect and return the vehicle at different locations - this additional One Way fee amount will display during online reservation, if applicable)
-Baby/Child Seat (provide Age & Weight upon reservation) R 200 (incl VAT) per rental (not per day), Booster Seat R150
-Young Driver Surcharge (driver below 23 years of age) R 150 per day (incl VAT)
-Cross Border Fee. Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia: R 1000 (incl VAT) per country. Mozambique: R1500 (incl VAT) (Only allowed for Group A, B, C and D into these countries) The cross border fee for Lesotho and Swaziland is less (All car groups may cross into Lesotho and Swaziland) - R400 (incl VAT) for Lesotho and R200 (incl VAT) for Swaziland. A cross border fee is charged for each country that you cross into. Please contact us before making a cross border booking.
-Cross Border Excess (in the event that you will be crossing into another country)
-Towbar - only available for Group Y, contact Cape Spirit™ before booking - subject to Manager confirmation
-Trailer - only available for Group Y, contact Cape Spirit™ before booking - subject to Manager confirmation
-No Show Charge R 500 - in the event of a no show without canceling the booking
-Traffic Fine Handling Fee - R 190 per fine - in the event that you receive a traffic fine this admin fee will be charged in addition to the traffic fine
-Claim Handling Fee R 450 (incl VAT) (applicable to damages exceeding R500 incl. VAT) and Towing Fee - in the event of accident, damage or theft an administrative claim handling fee is charged regardless of the car rental package of the reservation. If the vehicle needs to be towed in the case of an accident, the renter is liable for the towing fee.
-Valet - (Only if the car is returned with excessive dirt) Group A to E R200 and Group F to Y R250
-Mobile / Cellphone - Insurance and Rental per day: Cell R9.95 Sim R3.95 3G R20 per day R2.50 per Meg. Refundable Mobile Excess Deposit: Cell from R500 deposit Sim R150 deposit 3G R1370 deposit. Cell call charges: Local from R2.40 per min International from R7.90 per min. SMS Charges: Local R1.00 International R2.00. All Mobile / Cellphone Charges excl. VAT (14 percent), Credit Card and ID or Passport compulsory; and available at and can be returned to only Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth Airports.

-Cape Spirit™ Customers may reserve a GPS Satellite Navigation unit prior to arrival in South Africa to avoid the disappointment of no units being available due to the high demand. GPS units are available at Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth Airports only. The GPS unit may only be collected from and returned to Car Hire branches at these 4 locations. GPS Rental cost is R 59 per day. Refundable GPS Excess deposit is R1500. All GPS Charges exclude 14% VAT. Credit Card and ID / Passport compulsory, minimum age 21 years for GPS rentals. If you require a GPS please request this in the "other info" box during the final step of your online reservation with First Car Rental through Cape Spirit™.

Is there an Excess and how does the Excess work with Car Rentals?

There is no excess with our Executive Cover Option - meaning that your car is fully insured for damage and theft (please refer to terms and conditions and exclusions above) (please note that executive cover is not available for weekend-only rentals)

If you choose the Super Cover Option there is a R4 000 Excess. This amount will be taken as a Deposit when collecting the Car, and refunded back to you when you return the car in the same condition. The excess amount is your maximum responsibility in the event of accident, damages or theft. (please refer to terms and conditions and exclusions above)

If you choose the Standard Cover Option there is a R7 000 Excess. This amount will be taken as a Deposit when collecting the Car, and refunded back to you when you return the car in the same condition. The excess amount is your maximum responsibility in the event of accident, damages or theft.(please refer to terms and conditions and exclusions above)

Please note that the excess amount is only authorised over your credit card and not charged, so no interest occurs on this hold on your card.

Is there a Fuel & Windscreen Breakage deposit and how does it work ?

Yes, the fuel and windscreen breakage deposit is R 2000. The Fuel Deposit is authorised (reserved) over your credit card when collecting the Car and released (refunded) back to you when returning the Car with a full tank of petrol again (you receive a full tank when collecting the car) and with no windscreen breakage. If you do not return the Car with a full tank of petrol again, First Car Rental will fill up your Car and deduct the exact refuel petrol charges off the Fuel deposit.

What is the difference between Standard Package, Super Package and Executive Package?

The Standard Cover package has an Excess (liability) of R 7 000 in the event of accident or theft. The Super Cover package has an Excess (liability) of R 4 000 in the event of accident or theft. The Executive Cover Package has a Zero Excess meaning your Car is fully insured in the event of accident or theft, if you have acted in good faith and within the SA Laws and Terms and Conditions. (please note that executive cover is not available for weekend-only rentals)

With Standard Cover First Car Rental will authorise an amount of R 7 000 on your credit card during collection of the car, and release (refund) this amount back to your credit card when you return the car in the same condition. With Super Cover First Car Rental will authorise an amount of R 4 000 on your credit card during collection of the car, and release (refund) this amount back to your credit card when you return the car in the same condition. With Executive Cover no excess amount will be authorised over your credit card during collection, as your car is fully insured. (please note that executive cover is not available for weekend-only rentals)

Please see the next question for more info on how to calculate your deposit for Standard, Super and Executive cover.

How can I work out the exact amount and deposit that I will pay First Car Rental through Cape Spirit™ ?

You can work out exactly how much you will pay. No surprises!

Executive Cover calculation: (please note that executive cover is not available for weekend-only rentals)

Rental amount for Executive Cover:

The rental amount (that you see just before you finalise your booking)
PLUS
R 45 contact fee

Deposit for Executive Cover:

The following total amount will be authorised over your Credit Card when collecting your Car:
R 2000 Fuel & Windscreen Damage deposit (refundable) PLUS the Rental Amount (if not already prepaid during online reservation)
When returning the Car the R 2000 Fuel & Windscreen deposit will be released (refunded) back onto your Credit Card, and you end up paying the Rental Amount. (if not already prepaid during online reservation)

(Please choose payment option 1 "Pay when I collect the vehicle" for all Long term rentals longer than 30 days. If you choose this payment option, long term car rentals get billed on a monthly basis over your credit card, and not the full amount at once.)

If you will be travelling cross border or one way please contact us for more details on how to calculate your rental cost.

Super Cover calculation:

Rental amount for Super Cover:

The rental amount (that you see just before you finalise your booking)
PLUS
R 45 contact fee

Deposit for Super Cover:

The following total amount will be authorised over your Credit Card when collecting your Car:
R 2000 Fuel & Windscreen Damage deposit (refundable) PLUS the Rental Amount (if not already prepaid during online reservation) PLUS
R 4 000 Excess Deposit (refundable)
When returning the Car in the same condition the R 2000 Fuel & Windscreen deposit and R 4 000 Excess Deposit will be released (refunded) back onto your Credit Card, and you end up paying the Rental Amount. (if not already prepaid during online reservation)

If you will be travelling cross border or one way please contact us for more details on how to calculate your rental cost.

Standard Cover calculation:

Rental amount for Standard Cover:

The rental amount (that you see just before you finalise your booking)
PLUS
R 45 contact fee

Deposit for Standard Cover:

The following total amount will be authorised over your Credit Card when collecting your Car:
R 2000 Fuel & Windscreen Damage deposit (refundable) PLUS the Rental Amount (if not already prepaid during online reservation) PLUS
R 7 000 Excess Deposit (refundable)
When returning the Car in the same condition the R 2000 Fuel & Windscreen deposit and R 7 000 Excess Deposit will be released (refunded) back onto your Credit Card, and you end up paying the Rental Amount. (if not already prepaid during online reservation)

I am planning to collect and return the Vehicle at different locations. Is there a One Way fee and how much is this?

Yes, if you collect and return the Vehicle at different locations you may need to pay an additional One Way fee. The additional one way fee amount will be displayed during online reservation, if applicable.

One way rentals to Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Lesotho and Mozambique are not permitted

Where can I view the contract that I need to sign with First Car Rental when collecting the car?

Cape Spirit™ purely acts as an Agent for First Car Rental and you will have to read, understand and accept First Car Rental's Booking Terms & Conditions before booking. You can view the Terms & Conditions here (especially note points II, VII, and XXII).

IMPORTANT: Also see the Terms and Conditions that will be presented to you for signature at the Car Rental Counter - view here

How do I amend or cancel a booking, and is there an amendment or cancellation charge?

Please remember to amend or cancel your booking if your travel arrangements have changed. If you do not show up without cancelling your booking, you will be liable for a R 500 no show charge and may not use our booking services again.

More than 24 hours before collection of the Car:

Click on “Amend this booking” / “Cancel this booking” in your booking confirmation that was emailed to you just after you made the booking.

Or contact Cape Spirit™ to amend or cancel the booking on your behalf.

Less than 24 hours before collection of the Car:

Contact Cape Spirit™ to amend or cancel the booking on your behalf.

Please choose the "Pay when I collect the vehicle" when making your online reservation to avoid amendment or cancellation fees.

Please note that if you choose to pay for your car rental during the time of booking (prepayment), that the pre-paid amount is non-refundable (When amending to a lower amount, or if entire booking is cancelled, before or after vehicle collection.)

What Car models are available in each Car Group ?

Please note that you book a specific car group and not a specific car model. You can receive any of the vehicle models within the group for the specific group that you have booked.

Group A Car Rental (Hatchbacks)
Chevrolet Spark Manual, 5 Door, 0.8, Hatchback, Radio CD

Group B Car Rental (Hatchbacks)
Ford Figo Manual 1.4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Chevrolet Spark Hatch L Manual 1.2, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, Airbags
Opel Corsa Essentia Manual 1.4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
VW Vivo Manual 1.4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Kia Picanto Manual 1.1, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Toyota Yaris Manual 1.4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Suzuki Alto Manual 1.0, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Chevrolet Aveo Hatch Manual 1600cc, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group C Car Rental (Manual Sedans)
Nissan TIIDA Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Chevrolet Cruze Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Ford IKON Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Chevrolet Aveo Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
VW Vivo Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Renault Sandero Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Toyota Corolla Impact Manual 1.3, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Fiat Linea Sedan Manual 1.4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Renault Logan Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group D Car Rental (Automatics)
Nissan TIIDA Automatic 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Aveo Hatch Automatic 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group E Car Rental (Automatic Sedans)
Chevrolet Cruze Automatic 1.8, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Honda Civic Automatic 1.8, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group F Car Rental (Luxury Automatics) (No cross borders are allowed for this group - Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
BMW 3.20i Automatic 2.0, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group K Car Rental (4x4 Automatics) (No cross borders are allowed for this group - Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
View Europcar if you plan to travel cross border with this group
Nissan X-Trail CVT ST Automatic 2.4, 4X4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Honda CRV Automatic 2.0, 4X4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Suzuki Grand Vitara Automatic 2.4, 4X4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group G Car Rental (Luxury Automatics) (No cross borders are allowed for this group - Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
Mercedes C-Class Automatic 1.8, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Group I Car Rental (Larger Sedans) (No cross borders are allowed for this group - Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
Nissan Grand Livina Manual 1.6, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

We suggest that you visit your local car dealer to view the exact size of all the car models in this group, to make sure that the size of this car group will work for your requirements.

Group Y Car Rental (8 Seater Passenger Carriers) (No cross borders are allowed for this group - Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
Toyota Quantum Manual, 2.7, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags
Nissan Primastar DCI 100 Manual 1.9, Diesel Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, Airbags

Group Z (Automatic Sedans) (No cross borders are allowed for this group - Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
Volvo S40 Automatic 2.4, Radio CD, Aircon, Power Steering, ABS, Airbags

Can I request a specific Car Model within a Car Group ?

Please note that you book a specific car group and not a specific car model.

You can type your preferred car model in the “Other Info” box during online reservation, however First Car Rental cannot guarantee that you will receive your preferred car model, and you may receive any car model within your reserved car group (see Car groups above)

We have a baby / babies. Can we request a baby/child seat and how much does this cost?

Yes, you can request a baby/child seat during the final step of your online reservation under "Optional Extras". Please advise the weight of your child (under "Optional Extras"), and type the age of your child in the "Other Info" box (example: Baby seat - age 9 months). A baby seat costs R200 (incl VAT) for the total rental period (not per day).

I require a tow bar / trailer. Can you assist ?

This is only available on Group Y. If you require this, please contact Cape Spirit™ before making your booking as we need to inform First Car Rental and get confirmation from the relevant Branch Manager.

Can I travel on gravel roads ?

No. Please note that First car rental's waiver does not cover travelling on gravel roads. If you plan to travel on gravel roads, please book with Europcar here.

I require a roofrack. Can you assist ?

Unfortunately roof racks cannot be provided.

I require a GPS Satellite Navigation System for my South Africa Car Rental. Can you assist?

Cape Spirit™ Customers may reserve a GPS Satellite Navigation unit prior to arrival in South Africa to avoid the disappointment of no units being available due to the high demand.

GPS units are available at Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth Airports only. The GPS unit may only be collected from and returned to Car Hire branches at these 4 locations.

GPS Rental cost is R 59 per day. Refundable GPS Excess deposit is R1500. All GPS Charges exclude 14% VAT. Credit Card and ID / Passport compulsory, minimum age 21 years for GPS rentals. If you require a GPS please request this in the "other info" box during the final step of your online reservation with First Car Rental through Cape Spirit™.

I require the Car to be delivered to me and/or collected. Can you assist ?

Unfortunately cars cannot be delivered to private (or any other) addresses or locations in the beginning of the rental. Please note that all cars must be collected from a First Car Rental Branch. (If you like your car to be delivered to a specific address in the beginning of your car rental please see our offers from Europcar)

Cars can be collected by First Car Rental at the end of the rental from your address - please enter the collection address in the final booking step during online reservation. Please note that the following collection fee applies: Office hours (within 25km) = R215 After hours (within 25km) = R400, if 26 KM or more, applicable fee plus R7 per KM

Can I take the Car into another country ?

If you plan to travel over the South African borders, we recommend that you book your car through Europcar (click here) who has offices in Namibia and Botswana and who may offer faster cross border assistance in the unlikely event of car breakdown.

PLEASE CONTACT US BEFORE MAKING YOUR BOOKING IF YOU PLAN TO TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF SOUTH AFRICA AS ONLY CERTAIN CAR GROUPS ARE ALLOWED TO CROSS CERTAIN BORDERS

The following vehicle groups are not permitted to cross any borders: E, F, G, I, Z, K, Y, Q (Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
Also view Europcar if you plan to travel cross border as they allow more Car types to cross the border

A Refundable Cross Border Excess Deposit of R 7 000 will apply on Executive Cover, an R 8 000 Cross Border Excess will apply on Super Cover, a R 14 000 Cross Border Excess will apply on Standard Cover (please book all Cross Border rentals on Executive Cover to ensure a R7 000 Cross Border Excess)

Please note the following terms and conditions for Cross Border traveling:

i) A letter of authorisation must be requested at the time of reservation for all cross border traveling.
4 Days advance notification is required for Zimbabwe as authorities now require the original registration documents for all vehicles crossing the border.
ii) First Car Rental Car Hire and Cape Spirit will not be held responsible if a renter is refused entry into another country.
iii) Vehicles are permitted into Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Mozambique.
iv) Vehicles are NOT permitted into Angola and Zambia.
v) A non-refundable fee of R1000 (incl VAT) will be levied for vehicles crossing into Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia. This is charged for each country you cross into. The cross border fee for Mozambique is R1500 (incl VAT). The cross border fee for Lesotho and Swaziland is less - R400 (incl VAT) for Lesotho and R200 (incl VAT) for Swaziland.
vi) A penalty fee of up to ZAR5000 may be levied if the documentation is not produced.
vii) The following vehicle groups are not permitted to cross any borders: E, F, G, I, Z, K, Y, Q (Except Swaziland and Lesotho)
viii) First Car Rental and Cape Spirit will not be held accountable for the lack of fuel availability in any country the Driver enters.
ix) Should a vehicle need replacing, the renter may have to move the vehicle to the nearest SA border post. This cost is for the renter's own account. Delivery of a replacement vehicle is subject to time and distance constraints and an extra fee. First Car Rental is not responsible for any costs that may be incurred at the South African border post or by local Governments. These include commercial vehicle guarantee, permits, visas, import permits and toll fees.

If you plan to travel over the South African borders, we recommend that you book your car through Europcar (click here) who has offices in Namibia and Botswana and who may offer faster cross border assistance in the unlikely event of car breakdown.

REFUNDABLE CROSS BORDER EXCESS DEPOSIT REQUIRED (IF YOU WILL BE TRAVELLING OVER SA BORDERS)

i) Executive Waiver - R 7 000 Cross Border Excess (please book all Cross Border rentals on Executive Cover to ensure a R7 000 Cross Border Excess)
ii) Super Cover - R 8 000 Cross Border Excess
iii) Standard Cover - R 14 000 Cross Border Excess

CROSS BORDER NOTICE FOR MOZAMBIQUE

All vehicles entering Mozambique are required to have a reflective vest and two emergency triangles. Once in Mozambique, it is law for drivers to wear a reflective vest at any undesignated stop points. Failure to do so may result in a traffic fine. Traffic authorities specifically look for these items when conducting vehicle inspections – it is advisable to place the vest on the dashboard / front console, visible to all passers-by, so as to prevent any unnecessary delays or encounters with the local law enforcers. Only when parked in demarcated parking bays/areas, are you not required to wear the vest. Reflective vests are available at every First Car Rental location at no extra charge.

If you plan to travel over the South African borders, we recommend that you book your car through Europcar (click here) who has offices in Namibia and Botswana and who may offer faster cross border assistance in the unlikely event of breakdown.

Any other questions ?

Cape Spirit is here to assist. Please contact Cape Spirit™ here