Should I get CDW and such on a rental car in Europe?

September 1, 2005 11:54 AM

Should I get CDW and similar insurance on a rental car in Europe?

I saw this previous thread but it is US specific.

(For various good reasons, we're defintely renting a car, so please don't try to talk us out of that. )

posted by smackfu to Travel & Transportation (6 answers total)

Yes. I live in Virginia and rented a car from Thrifty last week in London. I was offered a choice between using insurance from my credit card (some offer it, others don't) which I felt was basically a *wink, wink, we'll take your word for it* kind of thing, as the rental was VERY cheap without paying for extra insurance, buying some cheap insurance that left me liable for a 500GBP ($850 ish) deductible, or paying an extra $150 for a week of total coverage. I clipped a parked car on my first day and seriously dented the front wheel arch. When I returned the car I just filled out a form and walked away. I was VERY VERY glad I paid the extra.

Things vary between car companys, and probably between countries, but I don't think they vary much.

With exchange rates and everything, trying to arrange the cost of repairs would have been a nightmare (and they often charge you for the time the car is un-rentable). I think it's much better to pay a higher fixed cost up-front and know you won't be stuck with a massive bill as you're about to leave the country.
posted by crabintheocean at 1:22 PM on September 1, 2005

It depends. According to this thread, it seems insurance is mandatory in Ireland and Italy. Otherwise, your credit card should cover this. My MC covered our rental in the UK. Calling the 800 number on your credit card should get you an answer.
posted by SteveInMaine at 1:27 PM on September 1, 2005

ACK! Try this link.
posted by SteveInMaine at 1:29 PM on September 1, 2005

Where will you be going?

I'd totally pay the extra $15/day or so, because it changes problems from "massive headache" status to "inconvenience that we'll laugh about later" status.

Having been in a fender bender in France and having a gas tank leak in rural Italy only served to convince me of this -- for the gas tank leak, we limped into a tiny town, called the toll-free number, and a tow truck appeared to take the car to the garage. The garage gave us a lift to the airport in Bari, where we had a replacement car waiting for us. All we had to do was drop off the keys for the old one.

For me, it's worth it for peace of mind alone.
posted by Vidiot at 1:46 PM on September 1, 2005

Your CC should cover whatever your insurance doesn't.

Check your CC's terms and conditions, or call them directly and ask. Also, if you're using a debit card, some banks cover these sorts of things. CDW is always a waste.
posted by Merdryn at 6:49 PM on September 1, 2005

Taking full cover in Italy nearly doubles the quoted price of the rental, which is typically quoted with basic CDW cover. Remember that anything you're quoted will also be subject to VAT and, in my case, a 15% airport surcharge. The charges quickly snowball.

I was recently talked into taking the extra cover; it covers you from the first euro of damage, and also covers theft; otherwise, you're stuck with a high deductible (E1000-1500).

It's a total gouge, and I had no trouble with the car, but agree with the sentiment that you really don't want the hassle if you do have a problem. It's a gamble.
posted by sagwalla at 1:19 AM on September 2, 2005