I read online boards about finance and one post from late July grabbed my interest. Someone had rented a car from one of the major rental agencies and – eight months later – was charged almost $3,000 for damages. This is after the customer got an all clear when they returned the car. Unfortunately, this is happening to more and more people.
Common rental car damage scams
There are several ways companies try to scam unsuspecting customers:
False accusations of damage. One prevalent rental car damage scam involves falsely accusing customers of causing damage to the vehicle. Rental car employees may inspect the car meticulously before handing it over to the customer, only to claim damages upon its return.
Pre-existing damage manipulation. Here, rental car companies may intentionally overlook or downplay existing scratches, dents, or other issues during the initial inspection. Later, upon returning the car, they will hold you responsible for the pre-existing damage, leading to unexpected charges.
Unauthorized repairs and overcharging. In some cases, rental car companies may authorize unnecessary repairs or overcharge for legitimate repairs. This scam often occurs after you return the vehicle, leaving you helpless to contest the excessive charges.
Potential consequences
Being caught up in a rental car damage scam can have various negative consequences, including a hefty bill for repairs that you didn’t cause or unnecessary stress and wasted time dealing with the dispute. Some victims may find their credit card charged for damages weeks after returning the car, causing unexpected financial strain. It’s crucial to be proactive in safeguarding yourself against these scams to avoid falling victim to such unscrupulous practices.
Protect yourself
Thoroughly inspect the vehicle. Before taking possession of a rental car, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage. Check for scratches, dents, and other signs of wear and tear. Don’t be shy about documenting even the tiniest imperfections – it’s better to be safe than sorry. Be sure to notify the rental company of any pre-existing damage before leaving.
Take detailed photos and videos of the vehicle. A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to rental car damage disputes. Take detailed photos or videos of the vehicle from multiple angles and distances. Make sure you get photos – in a well-lighted place – of all body panels, wheels, front and back of car, and the roof. Interior shots should include the dashboard, seats and carpet, along with the headliner. And don’t forget the trunk! Focus on any existing damage you observed during the inspection. These visual records will serve as your backup evidence in case of false damage claims.
Note pre-existing damage. Ensure that rental car employees acknowledge any existing issues and note them in the rental agreement. If they neglect to record certain damages, insist on their inclusion. You may also choose to include a comment stating There’s more damage on the car than listed here. Please see video and photos for more accurate detail. This way, you may avoid being held responsible for any previous wear and tear.
Understand when you’re liable for what happens to the car. If you leave a car at a closed rental agency, you are on the hook for whatever happens to that car until they open. If you have a flat and must have the car towed, again, you are responsible for the car even when it’s being hauled by the tow truck. (If the rental car company calls a tow, they are responsible.) Make sure you understand when your liability begins and ends.
When you return the car
If someone is there, insist that they go over the car. Sometimes you are forced to leave a rental car at a closed facility or are running late for your plane. However, if at all possible, insist that the worker on duty inspect the car and hand you documentation that the car came back undamaged.
Take more photos and video. It’s important to take the time to video and photo your car upon return. You should take the same photos you took when you picked up the car, making sure you cover all outside and inside areas.
Hold onto your proof. As noted above, car rental agencies can come back at their leisure and accuse you of damaging a vehicle. Don’t pitch the all-clear documentation; if it’s a paper copy, take a photo of it and store it electronically with your photos.
Research reputable car rental agencies
Before renting a car, do your homework. Look for reputable rental car companies with positive reviews and a solid track record. Check online forums and reviews to see what other customers have experienced. By choosing a trustworthy company, you reduce the risk of falling victim to rental car damage scams.
Use a credit card with rental coverage
Many credit card companies provide insurance that covers rental car damage. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your credit card’s rental car coverage, and ensure you meet the requirements for eligibility. Using a credit card with this benefit adds an extra layer of protection.
As with other scams, understanding common rental car scams is the first step to keep you from becoming a victim. Make sure to document your car’s condition before leaving and when you return it, and hold onto any paperwork. Taking a few extra minutes to follow best practices for renting can protect you from receiving a damage claim in the mail months later.