Top tips for renting a car in Windsor

You'll likely journey through city streets and winding rural roads on your trip to Windsor, Ontario. So you can feel confident behind the wheel of your Windsor car rental, and get up to date with the local road rules, parking regulations, toll roads and more before you drive.

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What are the road rules and driving conditions in Windsor?

Despite its proximity to Detroit, Michigan, Windsor is resolutely a part of Canada — so the typical road rules of the Great White North apply! In Ontario, you must always obey road signage, drive on the right-hand side of the road, and wear a seatbelt at all times.

In Windsor, the residential speed limit is 50 km/h unless otherwise posted, and may be lower in school zones or built-up areas. Highway speed limits in the Windsor area are between 100 and 110 km/h.

Windsor observes common Canadian road rules including restricted cell phone use while driving (unless on hands-free) and the 'Move Over Law' that stipulates drivers must give way to emergency vehicles with sirens and/or flashing lights. In Ontario, you may turn right at a red light if safe after bringing your vehicle to a complete stop first. Traffic in both directions must stop for a yellow school bus when its red lights are flashing and its stop arm has been extended.

In Canada's cold, wintry months, driving conditions can be unpredictable and occasionally, dangerous. Always equip your vehicle with snow tires or snow chains when driving in slush or snow. On Turo, you can filter vehicle options by snow tires.

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What is parking like in Windsor?

While Windsor is home to over 200,000 people, it's still got that small-town charm — and parking in the area is still an easy and stress-free experience. You'll find a mix of options to suit your needs in Downtown Windsor, including metered street parking along major streets like Wyandotte St and Riverside Dr.

There are also municipal car lots and parking garages scattered throughout the city if you're staying longer or would prefer a more secure spot. You'll find convenient parking garages on Ouellette Ave, Pelissier St, Wyandotte Ave, and other Windsor thoroughfares. Popular tourist destinations like Caesars Casino and the Windsor Riverfront offer paid parking, including designated event spots.

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Are there toll roads in Windsor?

If you plan on staying put in Windsor, you won't encounter any toll roads — Canada only has a handful across the whole country, and Ontario's main toll road is located up in the Greater Toronto Area.

However, if your Windsor itinerary includes a trip to Detroit, Michigan, you'll encounter the Detroit Windsor Tunnel on your voyage. The tunnel does not accept cash, so come prepared with a credit card, debit card, or the NEXPRESS Card or smartphone app, which is used solely for travel through this tunnel. Because this toll point is also a border crossing, don't forget to bring your passport along with you for the drive.

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Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Windsor?

Windsor has plenty of gas stations and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to help you refuel or recharge your car with ease throughout your visit. When you leave YQG Windsor Airport, you'll find gas stations in all directions, including on main roads like Walker Rd, Division Rd, and Howard Ave heading towards the city centre. The same goes for EV chargers, which can be found on these thoroughfares as well as at Windsor Airport itself.

Throughout the city, pull into any number of gas stations along your route, especially on Huron Church Rd and Tecumseh Rd E which both offer a range of options. You're also never far from charge in Downtown Windsor — enjoy Level 2 and fast-charging options from providers like ChargePoint and FLO in popular tourist areas including the Windsor Riverfront, local shopping centres, and hotels.

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Do I need to rent a car in Windsor?

Transit Windsor operates a public bus route throughout the city and between Windsor and Detroit, Michigan, however, stops are limited and may impact your travel itinerary if you plan on exploring more of Ontario or visiting rural areas to take in Canada's breathtaking nature. That's why we recommend securing a reliable car rental in Windsor for maximum freedom and flexibility. Our unmatched car rental deals make it more affordable than ever to zip around Windsor, Detroit, Ontario, and beyond without restrictions.