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12 May 2026 · SunnVio

Excess on a rental car: how to avoid surprises

The excess is the biggest cost renters overlook — and the rental desk's favourite money-maker. Here is exactly how it works, and how to rent without that risk.

What is the excess on a rental car?

Every rental car comes with damage (CDW) and theft (TP) cover as standard, but with a hefty own contribution: the excess. If the car gets a dent, scratch or chipped windscreen, you pay the first €800 to sometimes €2,500 yourself — even when it wasn't your fault. A parking dent from a stranger? Your excess. A stone chip on the motorway? Your excess.

The trick at the rental desk

This is exactly why the desk tries to sell you an expensive extra insurance at pick-up, often €15 to €30 per day. After a night flight with tired kids, most people sign — and the "cheap" rental car suddenly isn't. Decline the desk cover and you drive around carrying a risk of hundreds to thousands of euros.

How it works at SunnVio: €0 excess

With us, the excess is fully bought off as standard — it is included in every booking. In practice:

• At pick-up the rental company reserves the usual deposit on your credit card. That is normal and remains your money.
• If there is damage, the company charges the excess from that deposit.
• SunnVio refunds that amount in full within 30 days. Bottom line: €0 excess.

Damage to glass, tyres, undercarriage and roof — excluded in many desk policies — is covered with us too.

What you still need to do in case of damage

One thing remains important: always report damage, theft or an accident immediately to the police (ask for a police report) and to the rental company, and contact us. Without an official report the cover can lapse. Also take photos of existing damage at pick-up — it prevents discussion afterwards.

What is never covered

A few standard exclusions apply with every rental company: filling up with the wrong fuel, losing the keys, driving on unpaved roads or the beach, driving under the influence, and crossing a border without permission. Drive normally and you are always fine.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'zero excess' with SunnVio mean exactly?

The excess is fully bought off. If the rental company charges anything from your deposit after damage, SunnVio refunds that amount in full within 30 days. On balance you pay €0.

Do I still need to buy extra insurance at the desk?

No. All mandatory insurance and the excess buy-off are already included in your booking. If the desk offers something anyway, feel free to decline.

Are tyres and windows covered too?

Yes, glass, tyres, undercarriage and roof are covered as well — parts that many standard policies exclude.