Booking and Avis Wrongfully Charged Me for Car Damage I Didn’t Cause
Through Booking, I rented a Seat Ateca from Avis in Germany with a full insurance package. The reservation was from August 11, 2025, in Nuremberg (pickup) to August 16, 2025, at Cologne Airport (drop-off). However, when I went to collect the car, I was told the Seat Ateca was not available and was forced to take a Kia Stonic, which is not even the same segment. When I objected, they threatened that if I refused, I would lose my money, leaving me no choice but to accept the car.
On the 4th day of the rental, the car began leaking oil, and I had to visit an Avis branch to exchange it. On the 6th day, I returned the replacement car on time, without any damage, and in perfect condition at Cologne Airport. However, I was not given a return receipt, and because my flight was about to depart, I had no choice but to leave without it.
The next day, I was shocked to find that €1106 and ₺44,000 had been charged to my credit card. Avis falsely claimed that I returned the car at 17:00 and that the trunk lid was damaged. In reality, I entered the airport parking at 15:27 (my scheduled return time was 15:30), and I have both airport camera evidence and photos I personally took showing the car had no damage.
After researching online, I also discovered that many other customers have faced the same kind of unfair treatment by Avis. Despite contacting both Booking and Avis customer service multiple times with my proof, I have received no proper response.
I demand a full refund of the wrongfully charged amount and for Avis and Booking to take responsibility for misleading and threatening customers.
