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4 car rental scams you should be aware of
Travel columnist Christopher Elliott is always full of great tips and useful information. We covered his Lessons Learned from Summer 2007 in September as well as his thoughts on airport security. And now I have some more information from him: four new scams from car rental companies.
The first, according to Elliott, involves companies strictly enforcing rules that they were perhaps less strict about in the past. If you return your car early, for example, you might get slapped with a 10-dollar "early return fee." Elliott concedes that the only way to beat this game is to know the rules and conditions of your rental agreement -- it's time to read the small print.
In the second scam, the rental company charges you a fee if you return the car with the gas gauge needle at less than 100% full. Even if it's 98% full, you might be fined. Elliott reports stories of returns where customers were charged even if the tank was at 100%. Stop at the gas station immediately before returning the car, and keep all your receipts.
Thirdly, car rental companies have been caught charging customers for damaged vehicles, sometimes billing different customers for the same dent or ding. Elliott recommends taking photos of the car when you pick it up and when you return it, in case you need to prove that specific damage did or did not exist. If you notice any preexisting damage, make sure it's noted on the rental form.
Use your common sense, read your agreement, and don't be afraid to question a charge. It's still possible to get a good deal on a car rental -- you just need to be as creative as the rental companies!
Filed under: Business, Blogs, Transportation
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
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W. McMichael Oct 22nd 2007 9:26AM
A few tears back while vacationing in the greater Orlando, Florida area, I had a similiar experience. Upon arrival at the airport I was directed to the rental car agency to pick up my reserved rental. All went well until the rental agency stated before handing me the keys, that they would not except my proof of insurance. They insisted that I buy their insurance and that if there was any damage, regardless how small that I would have to pay in full at the time of return. This was not disclosed when making the reservation and the other nearby rentals stated the same policy.
Needless to say this put a damper on my entire vacation experience. I called my insurance agent and was assured that I was fully insured for any damages etc...I refused to sign the rental agency insurance waiver and went ahead with the vacation.
Upon returning the vehicle later the next week, I was fortunate that there was no damages and returned home. I wrote a letter to the rental agency headquarters explaining my situation and displeasure. Then about a few weeks later I rec'd a return reply. To my surprise they sent a check for $100 for any inconvenience and thanked me for my concern. They also stated that apparently some rental reps were taking advantage of tourists with this same scenario and it was not the rental agency's policy to do business that way. The entire operation was under investigation.
Since then I have never rented another vehicle while traveling and I'm hopeful that others are not taken advantage of.