Consequences of Keeping a Rental Car an Extra Day: Lessons from a Former Enterprise Manager
When you keep a rental car from Enterprise an extra day, you might face additional charges or even late return fees. In this article, we explore the potential consequences and share insights from a former car rental manager who witnessed various scenarios involving late returns, delinquents, and more.
Standard Charges and Late Return Fees
If you extend your rental period with Enterprise for an additional day, you typically face charges based on the vehicle type and location. These charges are usually straightforward and vary according to the standard rental rates.
However, late return fees might apply if you do not notify Enterprise in advance of an extension. These fees can add up quickly, especially if your original reservation was part of a special offer or discount. It is advisable to contact the rental location or Enterprise customer service to discuss your situation and confirm any additional charges.
Effects of Late Rental Extensions
The impact of a late return extends beyond just the cost. It can alter the financial agreement, potentially increasing your total bill. For example, if you had a weekend special deal and decide to extend even for one day, the price per day could skyrocket, significantly impacting your expenses.
Real-Life Scenarios
As a manager of a small car rental agency, I encountered numerous situations where clients extended their rentals late. Here are a few examples:
Falsely Represented Renter
In one instance, a renter provided false employment details and a hotel couldn't verify his existence. After several days of searching, I managed to contact his parents using information from his driver's license. The renter eventually turned up and berated me for involving his parents, to which I responded that I was only doing my job since he provided false information. A surprise de-tuned speedometer revealed that he tampered with the car, leading to its premature wear.
Lost Renter and Guilt Trip
Another time, we couldn't locate a renter, and the situation was looking dire. We finally discovered a forwarding address given to their kids. It turned out they had made a mistake. We retrieved the car but were concerned about the children left behind. The mother provided excuses for her actions, making me question the kind of role model she was for her children.
Fraudulent Renter and Imposter
We rented a car to a man claiming to be a doctor when an imposter was exposed at a local hospital. The original owner was traumatized, and the rented car ended up abandoned in another city. This incident led to complications and financial stress for everyone involved.
Misappropriated Car by a Druggie
A rented car by a man with a criminal record and a drug dealer status was abandoned in another city. His wife was covering for him, and once we retrieved the car, we informed the police. Eventually, the owner was angry with me for showing mercy, but I later realized that the car rental company shouldn't finance a person who has already shown criminal intent.
Delayed Military Returns
A soldier rented a car and later returned it. Initially, I suspected foul play but eventually got the car back. A friend of his had taken the keys for a joyride and damaged the car. The car was in the shop for repairs—thus, the extra time added costs but didn't affect the main issue.
Runaway Soldier
Another soldier rented our car and took off into another town. We tried to get money from his wife, but the commanding officer intervened on her behalf. I initially took it as a compassionate act, but later realized it was a mistake. The soldier's actions were theft, and we shouldn't have facilitated his escape from responsibility.
High-Billed Customer
One evening, we brought in a renter who had run up a bill of $2000. His card was declined, but Enterprise allowed multiple charges without consent from the credit card company. I felt uncomfortable doing this but followed the rules of our agreement with the original customer. Eventually, he managed to pay the bill.
Lessons Learned
These experiences taught me valuable lessons about security, trust, and the importance of clear terms in rental agreements. Whether a client provides false information, misuses the rental, or fails to return the car on time, it's crucial to handle each case with care and a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities.
The incidents highlight the risks involved in the car rental business and the need for thorough background checks and robust policies to prevent such issues. As a rental manager, it is essential to maintain a balance between customer service and maintaining the integrity of the business.