Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Q: Do you have availability for my trip?
A: Click here to see

Q: How much do your SatNav systems cost to hire?
A: We have a simple flat rate of €7.25/day. This is the lowest unbeatable GPS SatNav hire price in Europe!

Q: Do you have a minimum rental period?
A: No, we do not have a minimum rental period. Nor do we charge a higher rate for the first 7 days rental period.

Q: I don't want to spend valuable holiday time memorising a user manual to use this gadget. Is it easy to use?
A: Yes. All the SatNav systems that we provide are VERY simple to use. As easy as using a mobile phone. We promise that you will be proficient in a matter of MINUTES. And if you have a problem, call our Hotline Number +34 637433993 for assistance.

Q: Where can I use Virtual Chauffeur SatNav systems?
A: We provide GPS SatNav systems for all of Western Europe, USA and Canada, with street level mapping for your requested country or countries*

Q: What GPS systems do you use?
A: We offer several different GPS systems depending on availability and the latest models from the manufacturers. We currently offer the Tom Tom Go, Navman iCN 500 series and the Garmin Uvi range.

Q: What languages are available?
A: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Danish, Dutch and Swedish.

Q: Can I use the SatNav system out of the car for walking in towns and the countryside?
A: Yes, we only provide systems that have a battery back up. The battery will last for 3-4 hours. However, we do recommend that you always plug into the cigarette charger whenever you are using in a vehicle.

Q: How big is the unit?
A: The units we provide are slim-line pocket size units so it will fit in any handbag or shirt pocket. This means that you do not have to leave the unit in the glove compartment of the vehicle, placing you at risk of break-in and robbery.

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Questions Regarding ... Payment

Q: How much do your SatNav systems cost to hire?
A: We have a simple flat rate of €7.25 euros/day. This is the lowest unbeatable GPS SatNav hire price in Europe!

Q: What happens if I find a cheaper price elsewhere?
A: We are that confident that we offer the cheapest GPS SatNav rental service in all of Europe that we are prepared to offer you a price guarantee. If you find a cheaper price** within 7 days of booking then we are happy to match the price for the same service.

Q: Do you have a minimum rental period?
A: No, we do not have a minimum rental period. Nor do we charge a higher rate for the first 7 days rental period.

Q: Are we charged daily rental for the days that the unit is in the postal system being sent to me?
A: No, we do not charge you for the days that it takes the unit to reach you in the post nor 2 working days after the end of your rental period.

Q: How do I pay?
A: We accept Visa, Mastercard, Switch Maestro, Visa debit and cash.

Q: Do I pay all at once for my hire?
A: Depending on when you book, we usually take a €35 deposit to secure your hire. Upon collection or dispatch of your rental unit, the remaining balance of your rental will be due. Your credit card details will also be required for a security deposit but this will not be charged to your credit card exept in the case or loss or damage to the equipment.

Q: How much is the deposit?
A: The deposit is €200.

Q: What happens if I cancel?
A: There is a cancellation charge of any booking you are unable to honour prior to your collection date unless cancelled within the first 48 hours after booking confirmation. Cancellation charges are as follows: 7+ days notice = €35.00, 7-3 days = 50%, 2-0 days = 100%. All cancellations must be made in writing, emailed to info@virtualchauffeur.com and will take effect from the date received by us.

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Questions Regarding ... Using The SatNav System

Q: Do I have to set up the system?
A: No, the system works straight out the box. In addition, we will pre-programme your accommodation address and your itinerary on request as a complimentary service. It really couldn't be simpler!

Q: Do you provide a user manual?
A: Yes. When you first switch on the unit, you will see a quick on-screen tutorial. In addition, we provide the Quick Start Reference Guide. However, we are confident that you will have no problem working the SatNav system, which is easy to use and very user-friendly.

Q: What happens if I miss a turning?
A: Within seconds, the SatNav system will recognize that the vehicle is not on the intended route and will automatically recalculate a new route for you.

Q: What happens if my desired destination is not listed in the Points of Interest?
A: While there are millions of pre-programmed Points of Interest, some destinations (newer hotels, recently opened restaurants etc.) do not appear. For this reason, Virtual Chauffeur has teamed up with local businesses in Andalucia, along with www.andalucia.com to provide you with thousands more relevant Points of Interest to enhance your visit. In addition, if you provide your itinerary in advance of travel, we will endeavour to pre-programme your personal selection also.

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Questions Regarding ... Delivery & Return Of Unit

Q: I live outside the UK, can I still hire from you?
A: Yes, our units are available for hire to ANY nationality. We offer a collection service from Malaga and Gibraltar Airports. For any other destination within Western Europe we will deliver to any postal address - home, work, hotel or car hire company - within Western Europe.

Q: When do you send the SatNav system?
A: If you are travelling to Malaga or Gibraltar Airport or anywhere on the Costa del Sol, your unit will be delivered to you by our representative upon arrival*. If you wish to have the system delivered to your hotel, the unit will be there for your arrival*. For all other rentals, you will receive the SatNav system by post prior to your departure*.

Q: How do I return the SatNav unit?
A: You can return the unit either to our representative based at Malaga Airport and Gibraltar Airport, by arrangement for other locations on the Costa del Sol, or by post to either our UK offices or our Spanish offices, whichever is convenient*. Virtual Chauffeur will provide pre-labelled postage packaging for you to return. We do not provide a pre-paid return delivery system.

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Questions Regarding ... The Technical Stuff!

Q: How complete is the mapping data used in the SatNav systems you offer?
A: Virtual Chauffeur uses only the latest digital navigable map technology available. Our maps contain detailed coverage for all Western Europe.

Q: Is the SatNav system able to recognize traffic jams or road closures and avoid such areas?
A: No. Technology which allows GPS-based navigation systems to recognize and process real-time information such as traffic accidents and congestions are still in the early phases of development and as such we feel that they are not stable or efficient enough to be able to whole-heartedly recommend these products to you, yet. We are however, closely monitoring the progress in this and all other areas of GPS technology so as to continuously provide you with the best system possible.

Q: Does the system warn for traffic speed cameras.
A: No, we do not have our units with traffic speed camera software.

Q: What is an athermic windscreen?
A: Some cars are fitted with a special windscreen that cuts down the amount of UV (Ultra Violet) rays that will transfer through the windscreen. These are called Athermic or UV Coated and will often reduce or even stop GPS signals entering the vehicle. If you are concerned that your vehicle may have an athermic windscreen please contact us and we will advise you whether you require an external antenna to resolve the problem.

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* an additional charge may be applicable.
** applicable only on same for same service provided.