Avoid the Bait & Switch with Europcar - Zurich Airport, Kloten :
Reserving a vehicle on their website was easy and pleasant. After this point, the experience was annoying and frustrating.
Upon arrival and picking up our reserved vehicle, Europcar agent did not have the vehicle or "similar" available and attempted to UP-SELL to a more expensive vehicle with a MUCH higher security deposit (several thousand dollars!) which places a major hold on your available credit funds. If you have a limit on your Credit Card (because the majority of us do not hold a "black card"), this becomes a major issue. The agent became frustrated because of not having the available security deposit and offered us to provide several credit cards to meet the deposit requirement.
This seems to be an unacceptable method of operation. Standing in line, observed that this was the same attempt with other customers who was there to pick up their reserved vehicle and their frustration was apparent.
When doing our required safety inspection, discovered that Europcar vehicles do not include a spare tire. Was informed that the vehicles are equipped with "Run-Flat" tires and not needed. Nonetheless, this is an issue because Run-Flats are meant to operate to approximately 50Miles(80KM) at reduced speeds when punctured or damaged. So what is one to do without a spare? If you are traveling long distances in Europe and get a flat, you end up in a bad way with huge delays.
When we received our rental bill via email, there was an additional charge (compared to our printed receipt at rental return) without any explanation. Nothing to do with fuel as we topped off at the petrol station not more than a mile away. Absolutely terrible way to start off an epic vacation as soon as you arrive. read more