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Locauto is Scam Business that happens to rent cars too

Posted by on

AVOID LOCAUTO!!!! I was connected to Locauto via Rentalcars.com for a week auto rental in Italy 14-21 March 2015. I returned the vehicle at 450am on 21 March with no incidents or damage to report. A few days later when I returned to the USA, I received an email claiming that I damaged their vehicle, but it did not state what or where the damage was. I did eventually receive an email from them stating that the damage was "slight dents to rear bumper" but no proof provided. I then received a bill for $323 on my AMEX from them - I called AMEX and successfully disputed this charge (thanks AMEX!!). AMEX requested information from Locauto, but Locauto did not respond. On 14 Sep 2015, I received an email stating they were sending me to claims for now more than 379 euros, and if I did not pay they would send me to claims in the US.

After receiving the initial email claiming damage I reviewed this company on Google - many similar complaints to list. Numerous reviews on multiple travel websites and blogs reveals that my experience seems to be the norm. TripAdvisor community board also listed similar complaints. I recommend that you visit Italy - I discourage you from using Locauto! Please spread the word!!

Posted by
518 posts

Thanks for sharing. Please let us know how this all gets resolved. I'd be interested to know how far AMEX goes to defend you from these fraudulent claims.

Posted by
65 posts

Recommend that you photograph the car (front, back and sides) when picking up and dropping off and have the rental agent present when you do - why not take his/her photo too.

Then you have evidence of it's condition before and after - this goes for all rental cars.

Posted by
3 posts

American Express did a good job of defending me. Today they also blocked Locauto from being able to charge that card. I thought this was a done deal but Locauto has sent me to Italy's version of collections and if I do not pay in two weeks they will send my information to a US company for collection. I am curious to see how that will go.

I did learn a lesson to scrutinize the vehicle and annotate any damage or wearing of the vehicle. Take HD pics before and after for your protection.

Please look at all the Locauto reviews. Horrible business practices!

Posted by
43 posts

I don't know your location but if you are contacted by a collection agency check to see if they are actually legally able to collect in your state/ province. A lot of these grifters actually work on intimidation. Carry a bigger stick, they are legally vulnerable.

Posted by
7941 posts

A couple of points that maybe you could share.....

Did you use AMEX's optional CDW plan (you pay a flat $30 or so for the rental) or was it the default plan included with your card? (I suppose different AMEX cards also have different standard plans, so what card might you have?)

I ask because many cards refuse to cover Italy, so obviously your AMEX card does.

The issue you report though is common, I know in Mexico I always do a "walk around" with the agent and note any damage (scratches, minor scuffs) then again on return. But I also usually in Ireland and Mexico sofar, opt for full CDW. (England I used my AMEX optional CDW), no experience in Italy (I found the Train works)

Posted by
3 posts

I did inspect the vehicle for pick up. Unfortunately I dropped the vehicle off early morning and the office was closed so there was no opportunity to joint inspect the vehicle. Again there was no damage to the vehicle - the damage they claim was about the same price of their insurance plan too...hmmm.

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