What does Zero Excess mean when I book a car hire?

Let’s begin by clarifying what excess means in the context of car hire. Essentially, it indicates that the renter is financially responsible for any damage or theft of the rental vehicle. The maximum amount that the renter may have to pay is set by the rental supplier, and this information will be available during the booking process as well as in the Auto Europe voucher or local rental agreement. It’s crucial to remember that these excess limits are determined by the local supplier and depend on the vehicle category you select.

To completely avoid this charge, Auto Europe offers the option to purchase Zero Excess coverage when you book your rental. While local rental companies also provide this coverage, securing it through Auto Europe can simplify the pickup process on the day you collect your vehicle. However, it’s important to note that Zero Excess coverage only applies to certain types of damage; specific areas such as the wheels, roof, undercarriage, glass, and tyres may not be included. If any of these excluded parts are damaged during your rental, you will still be liable for the associated costs.

How is my car hire protected with Zero Excess with Breakdown Cover?

When you opt to rent from Auto Europe, you can elevate your experience by selecting our Zero Excess with Breakdown Cover. This feature takes care of towing costs and any damage to the windscreen, mirrors, external lights, roof, and undercarriage of the vehicle, all without any excess fees. Additionally, Auto Europe offers an enhanced choice: Zero Excess with Premium Breakdown Cover. This option encompasses extra components and fees that go beyond the standard Zero Excess with Breakdown Cover, providing you with even more reassurance throughout your rental journey.

Zero Excess with Breakdown Cover

No Excess. Physical damage to the exterior of the rental vehicle including damage to the windscreen, mirrors, external lights, roof and undercarriage of the rental vehicle with zero excess. Loss or damage resulting from fire or theft. Breakdown including towing fees.

Zero Excess with Premium Breakdown Cover

No Excess. Physical damage to the exterior of the rental vehicle including damage to the windscreen, mirrors, external lights, roof and undercarriage of the rental vehicle with zero excess. Loss or damage resulting from fire or theft. Breakdown including towing fees. Administration and Credit Card Fees. Emergency Accommodation and Transport. Refund of unused days due to medical reasons or car damage. Damage to additional items (GPS/Child Seat etc.).

What if I have an accident or the vehicle is stolen?

In an unfortunate event you are involved in an accident, your vehicle is stolen or it has sustained damage without your prior knowledge - Auto Europe is on hand to offer you reassurance and full guidance. In any case we kindly ask you to follow the below steps:

• Contact the local police:
  It is imperative in all cases to immediately report the incident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report. If your vehicle was involved in an accident with a third party, you are required to obtain a completed police report with the details of the third party involved.
• Contact your car hire provider:
  You are required to contact your car hire provider within twenty-four hours of the incident. Contact details can be found on your rental agreement or Auto Europe voucher.
• Take photographic evidence or video footage:
  If possible, please take photos and/or record the damage with a video enabled device as evidence. This will help expedite your claim.
• Complete accident report:
  Once your hire period has ended, you will be required to complete in full an accident report as provided at the rental desk. This report must be signed by you and the supplier.

What if the supplier insists I purchase additional coverage at the time of collection?

Car rental employees often play a key role in promoting various additional products and features to customers. One of the most common options they discuss is insurance coverage, which typically comes up when you arrive to pick up your vehicle. It's essential to understand that all the coverage options presented by the rental staff are entirely optional. If you’re offered coverage that aims to eliminate your excess, you might not need it, as you could have already arranged this through Auto Europe.

You may also encounter extra insurance options that provide coverage for specific vehicle parts not included in the basic insurance offered by Auto Europe. The decision to purchase this additional coverage rests solely with you. We suggest looking into Auto Europe’s Zero Excess with Breakdown Cover, which comprehensively protects these vehicle components, making it a smart choice during your booking.

Our services are tailored to give you complete peace of mind during your travels, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable rental experience.