I rented a car from Green motion over the weekend. Upon returning the car, it was discovered there was a small scratch (no more than 2mm in diameter) at the rear end of the car. I did not cause the damage but I didn’t spot it when I got the car (it was really very small and probably near impossible to see in broad daylight). However, the guy at the car rental place managed to spot it in a late evening with a torch. Long story short, I disputed without avail paid for the damage but now I feel that I have been set up. It is as if the rental place knew exactly where to look. The cost is £320 which seems excessive. Now I’m considering my options. I can contact the rental place and start a complaint (which I have done already outlining what I’ve said above). In the best case scenario they will refund me (unlikely as I’ve paid!) in the not as good scenario they may refund me partially. Do I have a case here? I also have an excess insurance with a third party – however I’m not sure if it is covered under accidental damage as I do not know the precise time of when/where the scratch occurred. There’s a chance that it might have been there when I rented the car and I didn’t spot it. So I’m not sure what I put in the particulars of incident in the claim form. I feel I have been penalised by something that is not my fault. Bottom line is I just wanted to get my money back. Any advice would be appreciated. -

I believe that Sixt is trying to rip me off. The facts were as follows: - The rental was for one day for £30 - I did not take the overpriced insurance. - The car was scratched / scuffed / damaged all over. - On return, the car was extremely thoroughly checked (delaying me needing to go to work) - Some non-recorded damage was found. - It was minor scuffing to the wheel arch. - I was asked to sign to check in - I did without being told what I was signing. - Having been informed by email, I complain to the full extent. - Several weeks later I received a bill for £338 for repair. - I have checked their terms and conditions. - The terms say that I am responsible for the "reasonable cost" of repair unto the excess for damage while in my possession. - Sixt say that I signed it in and out and that I am liable. - I have asked for evidence (10 that the repairs are or will be carried out, (2) a discount will be applied because of the the extensive cosmetic work required on the whole car, (3) the cost of the repair they claim is reasonable. - I have received no reply to this but weeks later (after my interim chasing) a further "reminder" to pay the £338 plus a late payment charge came through. My view is that (1) the likelihood is that I did not cause the damage, and (2) the charge is excessive. The whole process defeats the purpose of a convenience hire of a car local to me for the day for a short trip. A car hire cost of £28 with a bill of £338. I am also of the view that their contract and practices may be in breach of unfair consumer contracts legislation. I appreciate that I may be in a weak position re: their checking process and documentation. but my sense is that there is a possibility of sharp practice going on. I am minded to charge Sixt for my admin time - which as a busy professional is likely to significantly exceed the amount they will recover from me if successful in their claim. Has anyone else had similar experiences of Sixt? I had used them previously - mainly outside the UK - and found them to be excellent, with great cars, reasonable rates, smooth processes and polite employees. Sadly, I am unlikely to use them again.