Renting a car in Guatemala can be a great way to explore the country, and Toyota vehicles are often a reliable choice. This review highlights an experience with Avis in Guatemala, focusing on their Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and potential issues for renters.
While the Toyota car itself was acceptable, with only slightly worn tires and a satisfactory check-in process, the core problem arose with the purchased CDW. Having opted for full collision damage coverage for peace of mind, the reviewer encountered a frustrating situation when minor damage occurred to the rental Toyota. Despite immediately reporting the incident to Avis and returning the car a day early, the CDW was surprisingly denied.
The reason given by Avis was a requirement for immediate notification via phone. However, as many travelers to Guatemala know, reliable cellular service can be spotty, making immediate calls impossible in certain areas. In this case, the reviewer drove directly to Avis to report the damage, a responsible action given the circumstances. The damage itself was minor and did not impact the functionality of the Toyota, occurring due to unavoidable road conditions – rocks on narrow roadsides, a common feature in Guatemala.
Despite purchasing what was understood to be comprehensive insurance, the customer was informed that coverage was void due to the inability to make an immediate phone call. This experience raises serious concerns about the practicality and transparency of Avis’s CDW policy in Guatemala, particularly given the known cellular limitations. For future renters considering a Toyota or any rental car in Guatemala with Avis, this serves as a strong cautionary tale regarding the limitations of their CDW and the potential for unexpected costs, even with full coverage purchased. Travelers should be aware of these potential loopholes and consider alternative insurance options or rental companies when planning their trip to Guatemala.
