Quick Summary
- The Phoenix to Sedona run on I 17 is short but steep, so desert heat can punish a poorly prepared rental.
- Check fluids, tyres, air conditioning and basic safety items before leaving the Valley.
- Carry water, sun protection and an emergency plan so a simple delay does not turn into a risky breakdown.
Why desert heat deserves a pre drive check
From central Phoenix to Sedona you climb quickly out of the Sonoran Desert into higher, drier country. In late spring and summer the temperature can push well beyond 40 degrees, and long uphill sections mean the engine and cooling system work hard for most of the journey. Treat this drive with the same respect you would give a mountain pass in winter and plan a short inspection before you head north.
As soon as you start the engine, look for warning lights that stay on. If anything worries you, ask the team at Hola Car Rentals to inspect the vehicle or provide another one before you leave the lot.
Fluids, cooling and air conditioning
On a hot desert highway, coolant and oil are what keep you moving. With the bonnet cool, check that the coolant reservoir sits between the minimum and maximum marks and that the oil level is within range on the dipstick. If you are unsure, staff at the car hire desk can confirm everything is ready for the I 17 climb.
Once you are driving, keep an eye on the temperature gauge, especially on the uphill stretch beyond Black Canyon City. If the needle rises higher than normal, ease off the accelerator and, if safe, switch the air conditioning off for a few minutes. Never open a hot radiator cap and never ignore an engine warning light.
Before leaving Phoenix, test the air conditioning on full cold. At Phoenix Airport pick up, let the system run for a couple of minutes to make sure it cools quickly and that all vents blow properly. You will appreciate that performance when you return to a sun baked car after a Sedona hike.
Tyres, brakes and the weight you carry
Heat, speed and heavy loads are hard on tyres. Walk once around the car and look for even tread, no bulges and no exposed cords. At a nearby fuel station, compare pressures with the figures on the door jamb sticker. Under inflated tyres build heat and increase the chance of a blowout at motorway speed.
I 17 also includes long downhill grades as you approach Camp Verde and Sedona. A short test drive near the rental location will reveal any vibration when braking or pulling to one side. If the car does not feel confident under firm braking, ask Hola Car Rentals for a different model, perhaps an SUV suited to desert highways.
Think about how much you are loading the vehicle. If you are travelling with four people, luggage and hiking kit, it can be more comfortable and safer to upgrade to a family minivan from Phoenix or a larger van with extra space so nothing blocks airflow or rear visibility.
Safety kit, fuel and timing
Once the car is ready, prepare for your own comfort. Pack at least one large bottle of water per person, sunscreen, hats, snacks and a phone charger. A simple first aid kit and torch are useful if traffic or a crash ahead delays the journey and you arrive in Sedona after dark.
Fuel stops on I 17 are spaced out, so it is easiest to fill up in Phoenix or near the northern edge of the metro area. Many drivers also choose to leave just after sunrise so the toughest climbs are behind them before midday. Plan a short break at a rest area or viewpoint to let everyone cool off and to give the car a moment to recover from the heat.
Why book your desert drive with Hola Car Rentals
Hola Car Rentals makes this classic Arizona route feel simple. Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick up gives you flexibility to shift plans if a heatwave or smoke from wildfires makes conditions uncomfortable. Our All Inclusive plus rate combines maximum coverage with clear liability limits, and on selected itineraries you can benefit from cashback on tolls if your road trip continues beyond central Arizona.
FAQ for driving Phoenix to Sedona in a rental
Is a small economy car enough for the Phoenix to Sedona drive?
A well maintained compact is usually fine for I 17, provided it is not overloaded and its cooling system is in good condition. For extra comfort and luggage space, many travellers choose an SUV or mid size option from Phoenix Airport.
What should I do if the rental starts to overheat on I 17?
If the temperature gauge rises sharply or a warning light appears, safely move to the right, stop the car and switch off the engine. Open the windows, wait in the shade if it is safe and call roadside assistance using the details on your Hola Car Rentals voucher instead of trying to open the cooling system yourself.
Do I need to carry water and supplies for such a short drive?
Yes, it is wise to carry water, snacks and sun protection even for a two hour trip. An incident or closure can turn a quick drive into a long wait in the heat, and having supplies makes that delay much more comfortable.
Can I take dirt roads or unpaved viewpoints on the way to Sedona?
Most standard bookings with Hola Car Rentals allow driving only on paved public roads. If you plan to explore forest tracks or remote viewpoints, check your conditions in advance and consider booking a vehicle class that is suitable for rougher surfaces where the agreement allows it.
With a few sensible checks and the right vehicle from Hola Car Rentals, your Phoenix to Sedona drive can be a relaxed introduction to Arizona's high desert instead of a battle with the heat.
