Sixt, a global car rental company, offers a wide range of vehicles and services. Understanding their customer service policies, particularly regarding payments and reservations, is crucial for a smooth rental experience. This comprehensive guide outlines Sixt’s payment methods, prepaid reservation policies, and procedures for changes, cancellations, and no-shows.
Accepted Payment Methods at Sixt
Sixt accepts major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard/Maestro, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, China Union Pay, Japan Credit Bureau, and AirPlus. The card must be in the renter’s name, valid for the entire rental period, and have sufficient credit. Chip cards are required for most credit and debit cards, with the exception of China Union Pay. Debit card acceptance varies by location and vehicle type.
Debit Card Policies
- Airport Locations: Debit cards are generally accepted with a pre-booked return flight/train/bus ticket matching the rental return date (booked at least 24 hours prior) and for non-luxury vehicle categories. International renters may use debit cards issued in their home country for non-luxury vehicles at airport locations.
- Downtown Locations: Debit cards require a pre-booked return ticket or two current utility bills/lease agreement/credit card statement from the pick-up state matching the renter’s driver’s license. Luxury vehicle rentals are not permitted with debit cards.
Sixt does not accept: Virtual credit/debit cards, prepaid cards, checks, or cash. Chime cards are only accepted for final payment upon return. Sixt Express cards are not accepted as a payment method.
Security Holds and Authorization Amounts
At pick-up, Sixt authorizes an amount covering the rental cost, additional charges, and a security hold based on the vehicle category. These funds are unavailable during the rental. Authorization amounts vary:
- Economy to Premium Vehicles: Rental amount + $200.
- Full-Size SUVs and Luxury Vehicles (excluding Sports & Luxury): $500 or rental amount + $200, whichever is higher.
- Sports & Luxury Cars: $2500 or rental amount + $200, whichever is higher. Requires a credit card.
Specific deposit amounts and debit card acceptance may differ for rentals in Texas, Colorado, and Illinois.
Prepaid Reservation Policies (“Pay Now” or “Best Price”)
Prepaid reservations require payment of the estimated total rental cost in USD before the rental starts. The confirmed driver and payment method cannot be changed. Refunds are not issued for no-shows, late pick-ups, or early returns.
Changes to Prepaid Reservations
Changes are possible up to one hour before the rental start, subject to availability. No refunds are provided for any price difference resulting from the modification. Changing from a prepaid to a non-prepaid rate is not allowed.
Cancelling a Prepaid Reservation
Cancellations are allowed before the rental start, but a cancellation fee applies:
- Cancellation 24+ hours before pick-up: $100 cancellation fee (excluding tax). The remaining prepaid amount (over $100) is refunded.
- Cancellation within 24 hours of pick-up: $200 cancellation fee (excluding tax). The remaining prepaid amount (over $200) is refunded.
- Cancellation after the scheduled pick-up time: No refund.
No-Shows and Late/Early Returns
No refunds are issued for no-shows. No refunds or credits are given for unused rental days once the vehicle is picked up. Late pick-ups do not affect the total rental cost.
Contacting Sixt Customer Service
For booking changes or cancellations, visit Sixt’s website (www.sixt.com/service), email [email protected], or call their customer service center. Refunds to the original payment method may take up to 15 business days. For changes to the payment method during an active rental or at return, visit a Sixt location. Understanding these policies ensures a hassle-free experience with Sixt car rental.
