Whether you’re renting a car for a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a business trip, a smooth rental experience starts with being informed. With new technology like AI damage scanners being rolled out by companies like Hertz (which includes their other brands Dollar, Thrifty & Firefly), it’s more important than ever to know how to protect yourself and avoid surprise charges. Here are some of our rental car dos and don’ts, and how to handle the new wave of tech in the industry.
✅ DO: Inspect the Car Thoroughly Before and After
❌ DON’T: Assume the Car Is “Damage-Free”
Hertz has recently introduced AI-powered vehicle scanners at select locations. These scanners use cameras and machine learning to automatically assess the vehicle for new damage upon return comparing it to images taken at check out.
Sounds interesting... so what's the catch? While this technology can speed up check-in and reduce fraud, it’s also not perfect. Customers have reported receiving damage charges for minor, but costly, issues they say they didn’t cause or that weren’t caught on the original scan. In some cases, the AI may flag wear and tear or previously existing minor blemishes as “new damage.” That puts you, the consumer, on the line for damages you didn’t create and charges to your credit card!
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
Document everything yourself.
Walk around the entire car and look for scratches, dents, windshield cracks, or curb rash on wheels.
Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles, including the roof, under bumpers, and inside the vehicle (including the trunk) if possible.
Notify the rental desk immediately if you see anything that isn’t noted on the inspection sheet and ensure it is noted in writing.
Return during staffed hours. Try to avoid after-hours drop-offs if possible since you won’t be present for the AI scan or a final inspection.
Check your credit card and email regularly after return. If there’s a damage claim, it often appears days later.
Purchase insurance. While you may want to rely upon your credit card protection, be sure to check with your credit card as most policies are secondary to your personal auto policy.
Relying solely on these new AI scanners could mean mistakes or potentially unfair damage claims that are harder to challenge than before with a regular person checking the car. As this new system gets used more, it’s good for renters to know what’s going on and what to watch out for.
Bonus Tip: Use your phone’s timestamped camera or video for evidence. This could potentially save you from costly disputes later.
Need help choosing a rental company or want insurance included in your reservation? We’re here to assist—contact us today or visit our website!