The Hertz Corp. has announced a new set of protocol for rental car maintenance and cleanliness. Starting at all U.S. Hertz airport and suburban locations in the next month, Hertz’s Certified Clean & Safe program outlines a 35-point checklist to verify each rental vehicle as certified clean and safe.

At each Hertz location, there is a dedicated maintenance and cleaning area for vehicle inspections. Once the vehicle is certified, a representative places a signed card on the vehicle’s steering column, says Hertz.

The clean inspection includes door panels/pockets, dashboard and steering, front and back seats, glove compartment, inside and outside windows and mirrors, cup holders, console, odors and exterior, according to Hertz.

And the safe inspection includes the windshield and wipers, spare tire/tools, owner's manual, inside and outside lights, warning lights, tires and tread, AC and heater, seat belts, antenna and fuel.

Prior to its company-wide launch, the program was piloted at three Hertz locations in San Diego, Dulles, Va., and Cincinnati, where it received high remarks from both employees and customers for its transparency, according to the company.

“At Hertz, we're committed to ensuring our vehicles are clean and safe before each rental,” said Mark P. Frissora, Hertz chairman and CEO. “With the Certified Clean & Safe program, we're taking steps to share our internal processes and are providing a personal touch and added sense of security for customers, knowing their rental has undergone a 35-point cleaning and inspection process prior to being rented.”

To learn more about the Clean & Safe program, visit www.hertz.com.