Hiring a car should be straightforward—but sadly, some rental companies use tactics that leave drivers facing unfair charges. We recently heard from a traveller (who wishes to remain anonymous) about his experience with Klass Wagen, and it serves as a valuable warning for anyone planning to rent a vehicle.
A Customer’s Experience
Our client has hired cars for many years and is well aware of the usual upselling of overpriced insurance and other “extras.” But what happened on this trip went beyond the typical pressure tactics—he describes it as a genuine attempt to defraud.
The vehicle provided was in decent condition, but not new. It carried well over a hundred small scratches and blemishes—most too minor to note individually. The company advised him to take photos before leaving, which he did diligently.
On return, however, the inspection process turned sour. An employee compared the car against paperwork that could never realistically record every mark. He then accused our client of causing new scratches.
“He showed me a couple of the smallest and hardest-to-see marks in places most unlikely to be photographed. After checking my pictures—zooming in—we proved the scratches were already there. He argued, then backed down, before pointing out another one. It felt like he would keep going until he found something I hadn’t photographed.”
Eventually, the employee offered to “do a favour” and charge only for one scratch. Our client stood firm, refused to pay, and ultimately the demand was dropped.
The pressure, however, was intense:
“I am in no doubt this was a deliberate strategy to defraud me. Reviews show it seems to be a frequent tactic. I stood my ground, but many renters may cave in and pay.”
Why This Matters for Drivers
This kind of behaviour doesn’t just cost travellers money—it undermines trust in the car hire industry as a whole. Many drivers aren’t prepared for such aggressive tactics and may give in under pressure. Worse still, unfair charges can also impact the validity of excess insurance claims, since insurers rely on rental companies acting in good faith.
Protect Yourself Against Unfair Damage Claims
While stories like this can be unsettling, most car rental companies are honest. Still, it pays to be prepared:
- Take detailed photos and videos of the car at pickup and drop-off, covering all angles (including wheels, roof, and bumpers).
- Keep time-stamped evidence on your phone in case of disputes.
- Do not sign paperwork agreeing to damage you didn’t cause.
- Stay calm but firm if challenged, and insist on proof.
- Use car hire excess insurance so that if a genuine dispute arises, you’re protected financially.
Final Thoughts
Our client’s story is a strong reminder that while most rentals go smoothly, there are companies whose tactics edge into outright fraud. The best defence is vigilance: document everything and don’t be pressured into paying for damage you know you didn’t cause.
At SimplyExcess, we’re committed to helping drivers avoid unnecessary costs and stress when renting cars abroad. By sharing stories like this, we hope more people go into rentals prepared—and fewer fall victim to unfair charges.