Empty premise

Given that the holiday season is upon us perhaps you could advise your readers again on the pitfalls of hiring a car. I booked a car from Europcar via Global Reservations in the UK for Beziers Airport pick up. Prior to returning the car I filled it full at a petrol station 5 minutes drive from the airport. You can understand my surprise when the final bill came with 2euros charge for fuel plus 34.82 Euros fill up charge. Do they top it up with a petrol can because there's no fuel station at the airport and they probably used that amount going to the petrol station? What is your advice?

Asked on 19 June 2010 by MS, via email

Answered by Honest John

That is just bloody mindedly ridiculous. But some rental companies have a policy of asking for the car to be returned full. Some have a policy of topping it up and charging the customer. You need to be aware of which before you brim the car prior to returning it.

Tags: hire cars damage driving

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