Rental Fraud Uncovered: A Lesson in Standing Your Ground:
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—always take photos and videos of your rental car before you drive away. Take the time to get out, walk around, and document everything. This simple habit saved me big time on my recent rental experience in Amman.
The Attempted Scam:
Returning my car at Amman Airport, I had barely made it inside when the rental staff flagged me down. “There’s damage to the car,” they claimed, immediately presenting photos of the front grille and side panel showing clear dents and scratches.
I looked at the photos and asked, “Are you certain this damage happened while I had the car?”
Their response? “Absolutely. We inspect our cars before every rental.”
The Power of Documentation:
I then asked, “What if I show you proof that this damage existed before I even left the lot?”
Their demeanor changed instantly. They told me it wouldn’t matter—I still had to pay. And not through my rental insurance. The employee specifically asked for cash.
Fortunately, I had followed my own advice. I pulled out my phone, played a video I had taken before driving off, and showed the exact same damage already there when I picked up the car.
Their response? “When did you take that?”
I answered, “The moment I rented the car, while walking around with your staff.”
Silence. The scam had fallen apart.
The Takeaway:
1. Always document your rental before leaving. Take photos and videos from all angles, including any pre-existing damage.
2. Stand your ground. Don’t let staff intimidate you into paying for damage you didn’t cause.
3. Don’t pay cash. If there’s a dispute, let the charge go through your credit card so you can contest it later.
4. Stay calm but firm. You don’t need to argue—just show your evidence and let it speak for itself.
Shame on National Car Rental at Amman Airport:
This was nothing but an attempted cash grab, and National Car Rental at Amman Airport should be held accountable. Travelers shouldn’t have to deal with dishonest tactics like this.
Always protect yourself—because sometimes, your best defense is simply having the receipts.