Turo Go is a feature of the famous peer-to-peer car rental platform Turo that enables hosts to share their cars without having to meet their guests in person. With Turo Go, guests can unlock their rental cars using their smartphones and start the engine without the need for physical keys. If you’re a Turo host or guest interested in using Turo Go, this guide is for you. Here’s everything you need to know about how to use Turo Go.
What is Turo Go?
Turo Go is a digital keyless entry system that enables Turo guests to access their rental cars without having to meet their hosts in person. Turo Go is available for hosts who have equipped their vehicles with a Turo Go device, which is a small piece of hardware that connects to the car’s OBD-II port. The Turo Go device communicates with Turo’s app, allowing guests to unlock the car and start the engine using their smartphones.
How to Use Turo Go as a Host
To use Turo Go as a host, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Register your vehicle for Turo Go
To register your vehicle for Turo Go, you must have a Turo host account and a Turo Go device. If you don’t have a Turo Go device, you can order one from Turo’s website. Once you have the device, connect it to your car’s OBD-II port and activate it through the Turo app.
Step 2: Set up your trip details
When you create a new trip in the Turo app, you’ll see an option to enable Turo Go. Ensure this option is turned on and set up the trip details as usual.
Step 3: Wait for your guest to arrive
When your guest arrives, they’ll receive a notification on their smartphone with instructions on unlocking the car using Turo Go. You don’t need to meet them in person, but you can choose to do so if you prefer.
Step 4: Monitor the trip through the Turo app
Once the guest has started the trip, you can monitor their progress through the Turo app. You’ll receive alerts when the trip is about to end, and you can remotely lock the car using Turo Go when the trip is over.
How to Use Turo Go as a Guest
To use Turo Go as a guest, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Reserve a Turo Go-enabled car
To use Turo Go, you must rent a car from a Turo host who has enabled the Turo Go feature. When you search for cars on Turo, you can filter the results to show only Turo Go-enabled cars.
Step 2: Install the Turo app
To use Turo Go, you must install the Turo app on your smartphone. You can download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 3: Enable Turo Go for your trip
When you reserve a Turo Go-enabled car, you’ll see an option to enable Turo Go for your trip. Make sure this option is turned on.
Step 4: Wait for the trip to start
When the trip is about to start, you’ll receive a notification on your smartphone with instructions on unlocking the car using Turo Go. Follow the instructions to open the car and start the engine.
Step 5: Enjoy your trip
Once you’ve started the trip, you can drive the car wherever you like. Ensure to follow the host’s instructions for returning the car at the end of the trip.
Tips for Using Turo Go
Here is some additional information to help you make the most of Turo Go:
- Make sure your phone is compatible
Before renting a Turo Go-enabled car, ensure your phone is compatible with the Turo app. The Turo app requires a smartphone with Bluetooth 4.0 or later and a cellular data connection.
- Check the Turo Go coverage area
Turo Go is currently available in select locations, so make sure Turo Go covers the area you’re traveling to before you rent a car. You can check the Turo Go coverage area on Turo’s website.
- Keep your phone charged
To use Turo Go, you’ll need to have your phone with you and it needs to be charged. Bring a charger with you in case your phone runs out of battery.
- Familiarize yourself with the car
Before you start driving the rental car, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with its features and controls. Make sure you know how to operate the headlights, turn signals, and windshield wipers, as well as any other features unique to the car.
- Follow the host’s instructions
Each Turo host may have specific instructions for using Turo Go with their car. Read and follow the host’s instructions carefully to ensure a smooth rental experience.
Turo Go is a convenient and secure way to rent and share cars on the Turo platform. As a host, Turo Go can help you streamline the rental process and give your guests more flexibility. As a guest, Turo Go can help you avoid the hassle of meeting your host in person and give you more control over your rental experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide and keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of Turo Go and enjoy a seamless car rental experience.