Enterprise Düsseldorf Charges Exorbitant $1,605 Fee for Minor Door Dent
On May 22, 2026, I rented a Volkswagen vehicle from the Enterprise branch at Düsseldorf Airport and returned it to the same location on May 30, 2026. Upon returning the vehicle, I was charged $1,605 citing a small dent of approximately 5 cm on the front left door, just in front of the door handle.
I am aware that the contract I signed included a clause stating I am liable for damages up to $1,605; however, the damage on the vehicle was extremely minor, did not require paint work, and was barely noticeable to the naked eye. Despite this, I do not find charging such a high amount to be fair or reasonable. I will also attach the relevant photos and documents.
When I appealed this deduction via email, I was informed that my file would be re-evaluated if I provided a damage assessment report from an authorized Volkswagen service center. However, because I am currently back in Turkey and obtaining such a report incurs an additional fee, I have been unable to submit an official assessment from Volkswagen.
I believe the damage in question was pre-existing and that it would be virtually impossible for a standard renter to notice it upon pick-up. Therefore, I believe it would be beneficial for anyone renting the vehicle with this same license plate to inspect this specific area thoroughly before taking delivery.
My objection is aimed at the extreme disproportion between the size of the damage and the fee charged. I demand that the cost of the damage be re-evaluated based on actual market repair rates and that the $1,605 collected from me be reviewed to issue a partial refund to my account.
