The Problem
Your holiday is over, and you are returning your rental car at the airport. The agent inspects the vehicle and points out a tiny scratch or dent that you are absolutely certain was already there. They demand you pay thousands of Liras on the spot or state they will charge the deposit on your credit card.
How the Law Works in Turkey
Consumer rights are strong in Turkey. Under the Turkish Code of Obligations and Consumer Protection Laws, the burden of proof is on the rental company. They must legally prove that the vehicle was handed over to you in flawless condition and that the specific damage occurred during your rental period. They cannot arbitrarily charge your credit card without a signed damage report or a mechanic's official invoice.
What the Tourist Should Do
The best defense is preparation. Before you drive the car off the lot, take a continuous video walking around the entire vehicle, focusing on existing scratches, the wheels, and the interior. If a dispute arises when returning it, show your video. Do not sign any "Damage Acknowledgment Form" (Hasar Tespit Tutanağı) if you did not cause the damage.
The Risks
If you blindly sign a document in Turkish just to catch your flight, you might be signing a full admission of guilt, allowing them to legally drain your credit card deposit. In extreme scam scenarios by unlicensed local agencies, they might threaten to call the police and accuse you of "damaging corporate property" to force a cash payment.
LetFix Solution
If a rental agency fraudulently charges your credit card after you leave the country, or holds your deposit hostage over pre-existing damages, you have the right to take legal action. We can initiate the dispute with Consumer Arbitration Committees on your behalf.
