Sue’s Guide To Sneaky Charges For Hire Cars
You think you’ve paid for your hire car but the rental outlet may have other ideas and hit you with a whole list of sneaky charges before handing over the keys.
And the country with the sneakiest tricks and tactics? It’s Spain, according to research from independent hire car specialist Zest Car Rental.
So if you don’t want to say “adios” to your holiday spending money here’s what to watch for. ✦ Pumped up petrol charges. Some companies expect you to return the car with the same level of fuel that was in the tank when you drove off. But in Spain you’ll often be billed for a full tank and at much more than the pump price. ✦ Bills for damage. Being billed for scratches or dents that have been there for years. Unless you’re getting a brand new car, there’s always going to be a few marks and scrapes. But some dodgy dealers will try and bill you – and everyone before you! – for the same scratch, nick or dent. ✦ Protect yourself by taking photos and a video on your phone while you walk round the car. It means you’ve got proof of the state it’s in and so far I’ve never had any unexpected bills! ✦ Check the drop off point, especially if the office will be closed. If you don’t park in the right place you may get fined and the charge billed to your credit card.