5 common car rental scams from shady hire companies
Car rental scams give the industry a bad name – and as a reputable firm, we want to help you avoid them. Learn about 5 common car rental scams.
Like cowboy builders and greedy bankers, car rental scams give their industry a bad name. Here at MVH Rental, we pride ourselves on being open and honest with our customers – but sadly, that's not something you can always count on.
We want all our customers to feel safe working with us. That's why we've put together this guide to five
of the most common car rental scams. Our aim is to empower you to have a positive hire experience – not to put you off the idea, which can massively enhance a business or leisure trip.
So, without further ado, here are five of the worst – and how to avoid them.
1. Fuel scams
Different companies have different fuel policies. The most common are "full-empty" (where you have to bring back the car with its tank completely empty), "same-same" (where you bring it back with the same amount of fuel) and "full-full".
Full-empty will always be the priciest. Even same-same, which gives you some leeway, is likely to cost you more as it's extremely difficult to bring the car back with exactly the same amount of petrol as when you took the keys.
It's really important to choose a car company with a fair fuel policy – ideally full-full. If you do go for full-full, be sure to honour your side of the agreement or you could be faced with a charge.
2. Damage
This scam takes two main forms. Either you pay through the nose for a minuscule scratch – or you're asked to pay for minor damage that was already there.
This is a systemic issue in the car hire industry but a reputable car hire firm like us wouldn't touch it with a barge pole.
Your best bet is to scrutinise the car both inside and out before agreeing to a hire agreement. If you see any damage, take a picture and report it to the rep immediately. Scams like this are only possible when you don't act early to prevent them.
3. Flight delays
Let's say you've booked a hire car at the airport. Your flight is delayed and the person at the desk tells you that your car has been given to another customer. Your only options are either to upgrade to a more expensive vehicle or to make a new booking at "turn-up" prices.
This is a difficult scam to avoid as many contracts include it in their terms and conditions. However, you're less likely to get stung if you input your flight details and an accurate pick-up time when making your booking.
4. Forced upgrade
This is not unlike the third scam on our list. The car hire company reveals that it doesn't have a car in the size you booked, so you'll have to pay for an upgrade.
This tactic is either straightforwardly dishonest or passing the buck. Either way, you should know your rights and make a complaint.
5. Too-good-to-be-true prices
Shady hire companies are like budget airlines. They offer you the moon on a stick and then charge you for the stick.
In the case of hire cars, these hidden fees could include security deposits and surcharges for older or younger drivers, child seats and GPS.
The only way to avoid this is to go through all the details with a fine-tooth comb. If you see any extra costs hidden in the depths of the agreement, shop elsewhere.
How can you avoid car rental scams?
Most consumer scams can be avoided in two ways: doing your research and asking lots of questions. Before you get anywhere near the showroom, you should thoroughly inspect the company's website and online reviews.
When it comes to the car itself, check for any minor damage that you could be held accountable for later. If you see any scratches or dents, take pictures and log them in writing.
Scrutinise the contract as though it's a mortgage agreement or contract of employment. Look out for any hidden fees or extra charges, especially ones that could be lurking in the company's fuel policy.
And if you're not sure about something, ask questions. A reputable car dealership will have nothing to hide – so ask them directly what you want to know.
Taking care in these ways can make the difference between a positive rental experience and a scam that you have to waste time unpicking down the line.
What can you do if you get scammed?
As with all consumer disputes, your first port of call is the company itself. Ask them for an explanation of the additional charges you've received – and make sure to ask for supporting documentation.
If you're not happy with their explanation, you can withhold your money "under protest". In line with the Consumer Credit Act, credit card holders can make a claim to the credit card company. If, however, you used a debit card to make a payment, you can ask your card company to issue a refund.
In the UK, around 500 car hire firms belong to the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA). If the shady firm in question is a member, you can go through them to request a refund. In Europe, the equivalent body is the European Car Rental Conciliation Service (ECRCS).
About us
At Metro Vehicle Hire, we do things by the book. If you come to us for
car hire in Tyne and Wear, you can be sure of a friendly, professional service with no upselling, no marketing spiel and no misdirection.
So whether you need a set of wheels for business or pleasure in the North East,
give us a call – we'd be happy to help.
