Car rental advice

[DMCFan]

Hi all,

Apologies if I have posted this in the wrong place.

I’ve got an EV booked via Booking.com with Hertz UK — listed as a “Polestar 2 or similar” from Birmingham Airport, running from 30th August to 7th September. I’ve added Booking.com’s excess cover as a backup.

I’ve come across quite a few bad reviews online (Trustpilot, Google etc.) — mostly about unexpected charges, delays with deposit refunds, and issues during returns (including claims of damage that renters say wasn’t there). Some mention being caught out by their AI vehicle scanner, which apparently assesses damage automatically.

I realise people are more likely to leave negative reviews than positive ones, and Hertz must rent out thousands of cars a year without issue — but I’m just trying to get a balanced picture.

So I’m wondering — has anyone had a recent experience with Hertz at Birmingham Airport? Especially with EVs or their returns process? How was the AI scanner handled? Any problems with deposits or surprise charges?

Appreciate any insights.

[Sir Bagalot]

Take pictures and video at collection.

At least a dozen pics walking around car. Then a video of entire car. Then close up of each wheel and tyre. Take two pics of each wheel/tyre at different angles. Don't forget roof and lower parts of bumper.

I didn't spot a tyre bulge at collection recently but a picture I took did.

[stevemcs]

Sir Bagalot said:

Take pictures and video at collection.

At least a dozen pics walking around car. Then a video of entire car. Then close up of each wheel and tyre. Take two pics of each wheel/tyre at different angles. Don't forget roof and lower parts of bumper.

I didn't spot a tyre bulge at collection recently but a picture I took did.

And the windscreen

[LuS1fer]

You know that when you book additional cover through these websites, it's just an inflated insurance policy?
They still block your credit card and you still have to claim it back.
If you need that, then do it online at half the cost.

I have recently cancelled an additional policy with a car hire website and did the video on pickup (at their suggestion so well done Centauro), accepted the block on the credit card and had zero issues on return. It's all designed to prey on your insecurity.

[DMCFan]

Thanks all – some really solid advice here. I’ve booked a Polestar 2 through Hertz and already have excess cover via Booking.com/Zurich, but I’ll still be doing a full walkaround video and loads of pics at pickup, especially of the wheels, roof, windscreen, and bumper. Didn’t think to check for tyre bulges, so that’s a great shout. Appreciate the heads-up!