Yes, certain items, types of damage, and usage situations are not covered by rental car protection plans. The exact coverage depends on the rental company selected, the country where the vehicle is picked up, the vehicle category, and the type of protection purchased with your reservation.
To review the specific coverage and exclusions under your agreement, check the offer details and your confirmation voucher in the “Protection” section. When picking up the vehicle, it is also advisable to carefully review the rental agreement terms directly with the rental company.
Which vehicle components may not be covered?
Standard rental protection may exclude certain vehicle components. Depending on the protection purchased, the main exclusions may include:
Tires and wheels;
Windows and windshield;
Side and rear-view mirrors;
Keys (including loss, theft, breakage, or replacement costs);
Interior components (upholstery, dashboard, and accessories);
Roof and undercarriage components (chassis, suspension, and underside of the vehicle).
Coverage for these items varies depending on the plan purchased. Always check the list of exclusions before starting your rental.
Which types of damage or situations may not be covered?
Even if the vehicle has theft or collision protection, certain situations and types of damage may be excluded from coverage. Depending on the rental company's rules and the agreement, the following are not covered:
Scratches or dents on the bodywork;
Damage caused by improper vehicle use (such as using the wrong fuel or overworking the engine);
Damage resulting from reckless driving or speeding;
Damage occurring in situations or locations not permitted under the rental agreement (such as driving on prohibited roads);
Damage caused by vandalism or certain natural events (such as floods, hail, and storms);
Loss-of-use or extended downtime fees (charges imposed by the rental company for the period the car remains in the repair shop);
Towing and/or roadside assistance costs.
Important: protection plans do not guarantee unlimited coverage for all costs or damage related to the vehicle. Always check the specific terms of the rental company you have booked with. Damage outside the coverage may result in being charged the full repair costs or the excess.
What should I do if I need to drive in specific conditions?
If you plan to drive on unpaved roads (dirt, sand, or gravel roads) or on terrain with specific conditions, check the rental company's rules and restrictions before starting your trip. Permitted uses, driving restrictions, and coverage vary by company, destination, and vehicle model.
Some rental companies offer additional protection for specific driving conditions. Availability and terms vary, and these options may be offered directly at the rental counter when you pick up the vehicle.
Learn more: Can I drive on dirt roads with a rental car?
How does RentalCover protection work in these cases?
RentalCover is an additional protection option that may cover items and situations not included in the standard protection offered by the rental company (such as tires, windows, the roof, the chassis, and towing costs).
Important: RentalCover operates on a reimbursement basis. If a covered item is damaged, the rental company will charge you when the rental agreement is closed. You can then request reimbursement directly through the RentalCover portal by submitting the vehicle return report and proof of payment.
To find out exactly what your plan includes, review RentalCover's terms and conditions.
Learn more: What is RentalCover?
Important recommendations before picking up the vehicle
When you arrive at the rental counter to pick up the car, keep the following points in mind:
Confirm the coverage at the counter: ask the representative to clarify exactly what is included and which items, types of damage, or situations are excluded under your agreement.
Be aware of traffic violations: reckless driving and speeding invalidate protection coverage in all situations.
Understand the limits of the protection: the fact that a protection plan covers certain types of damage (such as collision damage) does not mean it covers every situation or operating cost associated with using the vehicle.
Consider additional protection: if the rental company offers extra protection at the counter, carefully review the terms, charges, and exclusions before accepting it.