Europcar Damage Management
As a leading mobility service provider, we guarantee fair and transparent damage management. We understand that this is a sensitive matter, which is why we evaluate every case individually. You can trust us: even if damage occurs, it does not automatically result in a charge.
Discovered pre-existing damage? Report it now!
Your safety is our priority. If you notice any new, undocumented pre-existing damage on the vehicle before your journey, please report it quickly and easily. This is the only way to ensure a fair assessment of responsibility. If you are collecting the vehicle without a direct handover (e.g., at the airport or through delivery), please use this reporting process as well.
How it works:
- Send an SMS with the text "Pre-Existing Damage" to +49 177 1783001 to quickly report any previously undocumented damage before you start your trip.
- You will then receive a link to an online form where you can report any new damage that is not listed in your rental agreement.
- Important: Any new damage discovered when picking up the vehicle must be reported immediately after taking possession, as the link will expire shortly afterward.
- Please note: SMS charges may vary depending on your mobile plan and provider.
Our Damage Management at a Glance
✔ Inspection of all vehicles in accordance with quality and safety standards
✔ Detailed documentation of any pre-existing damage in the rental agreement
🛈︎ If you notice any damage that has not been recorded, please report it immediately before departure.
✔ Personal vehicle check during handover*
✔ Joint review of existing damage when returning the vehicle*
✔ Immediate email delivery of the return report linked to your Driver ID
✔ Save processing fees by settling new damages directly on-site according to our direct settlement price list.
*Available during regular opening hours, and limited during peak times.
How should I proceed in the event of an accident or damage?
- Please inform the police and Europcar immediately. This also applies to self-inflicted accidents without third-party involvement or if damage occurs to property such as walls, guardrails, fences, hedges, etc.
What Counts as Damage?
Not every minor mark on a vehicle is considered reportable damage. To provide maximum transparency, we define exactly which criteria must be met for damage to be considered relevant:
✔ Scratches from 2 cm* ✔ Scuff marks*
✔ Dents from 5 cm ✔ Deformations
✔ Breaks ✔ Cuts
✔ Cracks ✔ Stone chips on glass
✔ Tire damage ✔ Accident damage
✔ Missing parts ✔ Wrong fuel
✔ Heavy soiling ✔ Burn holes
Scratches under 2 cm and dents under 5 cm are considered normal wear by Europcar and will not be charged.
*Except for trucks in the cargo area, where these are also considered normal wear.
Detailed information is available in the damage brochures for Cars and Vans & Trucks (german version).
Damage Settlement Pricelists
The pricelists for direct damage settlement are available here:
All important details about fair damage management, including vehicle handover procedures and the exact definition of damages, can be conveniently downloaded here as a compact PDF.