TURO has been marketed as an easier way to have your rental car needs met. However, there are some things you need to consider before you click “book now.” There are several serious risks and drawbacks to using the platform. In some cases, you might find yourself wishing you’d just stuck to a traditional rental service. Here are six reasons why renting a car from TURO might not be the best idea.
1. Hidden Costs Can Add Up Fast
Many customers have complained about hidden costs associated with renting a car through TURO. Initially, the prices seem lower than anything you’d see from a traditional rental agency, but you’ll see additional charges come through for all kinds of stuff. Insurance, cleaning, delivery, mileage, and other fees might be tacked on. If you’re not prepared, this could put you in a pinch financially.
2. Unpredictable Vehicle Quality
Because TURO is a peer-to-peer lending platform, the quality of the vehicle will vary wildly. Some users get lucky and rent a well-maintained high-end car. Others might find that their rental isn’t even roadworthy or that the vehicle is extremely dirty.
3. Complicated Insurance Policies
Rental companies tend to have insurance policies that are attached to the overall cost. With TURO, insurance is a bit of a grey area. The platform itself offers some insurance options, but it’s not entirely clear what it will cover. Oftentimes, the coverage isn’t comprehensive either, which leaves you holding the bag in the event of an accident.
4. Risk of Last-Minute Cancellations
Another risk of using TURO is the possibility of your host canceling your reservation at the last minute. While this can happen with any car rental service, TURO has a higher likelihood due to the nature of its peer-to-peer model. If your host has an emergency or simply changes their mind, you may be left scrambling to find another vehicle just days before your trip.
5. Limited Customer Support
Customer service with TURO can be a major headache. Since it’s a peer-to-peer platform, getting help if something goes wrong can be slow and frustrating. Unlike established rental companies with 24/7 customer service, TURO doesn’t have the same level of support or readily available assistance.
6. Mileage and Usage Restrictions
TURO often imposes strict mileage limits, which can be a major hassle if you’re planning to drive a lot during your rental period. Many hosts set a daily mileage cap, and exceeding this limit could result in additional charges. With traditional rental services, you’re generally offered more flexibility, especially if you choose a package with unlimited mileage.
Is TURO Worth the Risk?
Renting a car from TURO seems like it’d be a great alternative to traditional rental services. The peer-to-peer rental platform isn’t all it’s cracked up to be though. Using TURO comes with some significant risks. You should weigh these drawbacks against any perceived “plus” of using the service. It’s not always the hassle-free option it’s marketed to be.
Have you used TURO? What was your experience?
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