Rental Car Breakdown - Here's What You Must Pay

[TwoAtDisney]

I'm so glad I got this question answered. I talked with the Roadside Assist dept at Thrifty & a counter person at Hertz.

If don't buy rental car company's insurance & the car has a mechanical problem, not damage due to customer or accident -

1. Call # on rental docs.
2. They will tow another car to you, get you on your way, & then tow back the "broken" car.
3. You are responsible for roadside assist for a battery jump start, & tire change.

It is possible you must pay for tire replacement if it is damaged due to nail, hitting a curb, in other words the result of driving, not a defective tire.

So, regarding our (DH & I) buying insurance from the rental company, we will not -
1. Our insurance covers the rental car & liability same as covers our car. There is a deductible, but we can cover that IF would ever happen.

2. Our credit card (Visa) covers "Loss of Use" charges by the rental car company.

3. Our AAA membership covers roadside assist, including the battery & tire issues.

Hope this helps someone.

 

[Shelly F - Ohio]

Too most of the rental cars also come with the 3yr or whatever the mileage limit is, road side assist. Its standard on new cars so why should we have to pay for something that comes free with the car? Road side assist covers battery jumps and tire changes.

 

[Lewisc]

Too most of the rental cars also come with the 3yr or whatever the mileage limit is, road side assist. Its standard on new cars so why should we have to pay for something that comes free with the car? Road side assist covers battery jumps and tire changes.

I know my AAA covers road side assist for whatever car I'm driving. I don't have a problem.

Rental companies get fleet pricing from the car manufacturers. I have no idea if extras like road side assist are included or excluded with such a purchase. Before leaving the garage with a rental car I always check and make sure I have a spare and jack. I don't want to be charged for a missing item and I certainly want a spare if I get a flat. Some people can change a flat faster then it will take for road assist. I'd rather pay cash to repair a small nail hole then let the rental agency, or road assist person tell the agency, a tire is ruined and hold me responsible.