Germany Car Hire

Why You Should Choose Zero Excess Car Hire in Germany

There are lots of reasons to plump for zero excess car hire in Germany.

First of all, think about the overall financials. If you’re not very risk tolerant and find a good deal, zero excess can actually be cheaper than paying standard excess and crossing your fingers you don’t need it – especially in Germany.

And speaking of risk tolerance, zero excess car hire provides you with the peace of mind that only comes when you know you won’t be charged if your vehicle gets damaged or stolen – goodbye financial uncertainty during your break.

Don’t forget the rapid claim resolution either. Zero excess claims are often settled far quicker than standard claims, because there’s no time wasted contesting who’s to blame for the damage.

One note of caution: read the terms and conditions very closely, because some zero excess policies don’t cover very specific types of damage, such as undercarriage and wheels.

Top Zero Excess Car Hire Providers in Germany

There are several zero excess car hire providers to choose from in Germany and each offers packages that are a little different.

Take Wheego, for example. Its Zero Excess Comfort Plus package covers all damage except grossly negligent, intoxicated/drugged driving, wear & tear, tire, and interior damage. Breakdown assistance is included, as is vehicle replacement and theft protection.

And Sixt is also worth a look. Its Complete Protection package has no exclusions, and includes breakdown assistance, and vehicle replacement. Plus, you get theft protection and personal accident insurance.

Don’t forget Europcar though, which offers zero excess cover similar to Wheego (with breakdown assistance and vehicle replacement), or Buchbinder, whose premium relax package includes breakdown assistance, vehicle replacement, and theft protection.

Zero Excess Car Hire in Germany: Save Time and Money

There are several ways zero excess car hire can save you time and cash, but obviously this depends on your specific circumstances.

For example, you can save time with faster claim resolution, there’s less hassle and stress because financial stresses are eased, and the overall cost is potentially lower in the long-run.

What is Zero Excess Car Hire and How Does it Work?

Zero excess car hire is sometimes called zero deductible car hire. And it removes your financial responsibility for any damage to the rental car during your trip, (with certain limitations).

So how’s it different from standard car rental? With standard, you pay a basic rate and deposit when you hire a car. Then, if you damage the car, you'll be responsible for paying up to the amount of the excess, whoever’s at fault.

But zero excess car hire is different. Because you pay an additional fee on top of the base rate to eliminate your excess liability. And should you damage the car, you won't be responsible for any out-of-pocket costs, (provided the damage falls within the coverage terms).

How to Find Zero Excess Car Hire in Germany

In case you haven’t realised, the best way to find German zero excess car hire is by booking it right here on this site.

But in the spirit of transparency, we should tell you other aggregator sites are available, and you can also book directly with a range of well-known and trusted local brands.

The Most Important Factors to Consider: Reputation, Customer Service, and Vehicle Quality

It’s great saving time and money by choosing zero excess car hire in Germany. But there are other important factors to consider too, because the cheapest and slickest-looking package isn’t always necessarily the best.

When you want to make sure you’re making the right decision, car quality, customer service and reputation are also crucial criteria.

So how do you find a provider with a good rep? Trawl independent online reviews, check Google and Trustpilot and dig into specific feedback that goes beyond the star ratings – then you’ll know how real-life customers feel about how clear terms and conditions are, the swiftness of claim resolutions and overall customer service.

Speaking of which, check which companies offer 24/7 support in your own language and also how previous customers rate that support – because if it’s available all day and night but still doesn’t solve problems, it’s not as good as it sounds.

Last but not least, please check information about different companies’ fleet age and maintenance policies. Because newer and more regularly maintained vehicles are generally safer than older neglected cars.

Enjoy Your Trip With Zero Excess Car Hire in Germany

Whether you’re visiting Germany for pleasure, and taking in the amazing vibes of Berlin, the beauty of the Black Forest, or the Beer halls of Munich, or taking a business trip to connect with the nation’s diverse and dynamic industries, the last thing you need on your mind is car insurance.

So when you grab a great zero excess car hire package in Germany, your mind’s at ease – should any type of vehicular damage occur, you’re totally covered. And if it’s minor damage, the claim with zero excess is usually processed swiftly and smoothly, immediately easing the pressure again.

There are pros and cons to everything, and zero excess car hire will typically come with an extra fee on top of your car hire in Germany, but if you’re a slightly nervous driver, very risk averse, or simply eminently sensible, it might be a good move for you.

How to Drive Safely and Responsibly in Germany

Before you drive in Germany, it’s recommended to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). This isn’t mandatory, but it's highly recommended if your license isn't in English or the EU.

You should also get to grips with German traffic laws: They’re different from some other countries, so please pay close attention to priority signs, speed limits, and right-of-way rules. And make sure your hire car is in good condition – by checking the brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels before setting off.

Be responsible on the Autobahn (motorway too). There’s no general speed limit, but this doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all – you should drive at a safe speed based on your experience and ability, traffic levels and weather conditions.

What to do in a road accident or emergency in Germany

It’s a bit of a cliché, but if you are unfortunate enough to get in a car accident in Germany, please try to remain calm – your safety and those of others depends on it.

As long as you’re uninjured and it’s possible, get uninjured people away from oncoming traffic and turn on your hazard lights.

Call emergency services on 112 and they’ll send whichever emergency services are appropriate – you’ll be connected to an English-speaking operator but please speak slowly and clearly to ensure they get the clearest picture of the situation possible.

How to avoid extra charges on your zero excess car hire in Germany

When you’re maximising all the advantages of zero excess car hire in Germany we’ve been exploring, the last thing you need is to get caught out with extra charges.

So read the terms and conditions very carefully before you rent and pay particular attention to what is and isn’t included, check what the fuel policy is, and confirm whether there are any fees for additional drivers.

Check your car thoroughly when you pick it up and flag up any existing damage to your rental company (with accompanying photos/videos), and triple-check your final invoice to make sure there are no unexpected charges.

You can also consider additional insurance. For instance, if your windshield’s excluded from your policy, but you’re planning to travel across rugged terrain, it’s probably worthwhile.