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The Car Rental Deposit at Agadir Airport: Everything You Need to Know The Car Rental Deposit at Agadir Airport: Everything You Need to Know

When renting a car at Agadir Airport, one of the key steps is managing the deposit or security hold. This amount, temporarily blocked on your credit card, acts as a guarantee for the rental agency in case of damages, accidents, or additional fees. Understanding the terms of the deposit can help you avoid financial surprises during your rental. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the car rental deposit at Agadir’s Al Massira Airport.

1. What is a Deposit?

A deposit (or security hold) is an amount of money blocked by the car rental agency on your credit card when you pick up the vehicle. This amount is not debited but temporarily held. It serves as a safeguard for covering:

  • Vehicle damages.
  • Vehicle theft.
  • Parking or speeding fines.
  • Missing fuel if you don’t return the car with a full tank.
  • Additional cleaning fees if the car is returned in an excessively dirty condition.

The deposit is refunded once you return the vehicle in good condition and in compliance with the rental agreement. The hold on your card may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks after the car is returned, depending on the agency’s policies and your bank.

2. Deposit Amount

The deposit amount varies depending on several factors:

  • Type of vehicle: Economy cars typically have a lower deposit, while luxury cars, 4x4s, or SUVs may require higher deposits.
  • Rental agency: Each agency has its own requirements for deposit amounts. For example, international agencies like Avis, Hertz, or Europcar may demand higher amounts than local agencies.
  • Rental duration: The longer the rental period, the higher the deposit may be.
  • Insurance coverage: If you opt for full insurance (or excess reduction insurance), the deposit amount can be significantly reduced.

Example of Deposit Amounts:

  • For an economy car: Between 5,000 and 8,000 dirhams (around €450 to €720).
  • For an SUV or luxury vehicle: Between 10,000 and 20,000 dirhams (around €900 to €1,800).

3. How is the Deposit Blocked?

The deposit is blocked using a credit card. It’s important to note that debit cards, while sometimes accepted for rental payments, may not always be suitable for blocking a deposit. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Credit card required: Most rental agencies require a credit card to block the deposit. The amount is held but not debited unless additional charges apply when the vehicle is returned.
  • Blocked amount: The amount is temporarily unavailable on your account during the rental period and can take up to 7 to 14 days after the vehicle is returned to be released.
  • Credit limit: Make sure your credit card has a sufficient limit to cover both the deposit and any potential additional fees.

4. How to Avoid or Reduce the Deposit Amount?

If the deposit amount seems too high, there are ways to reduce or avoid it entirely, depending on the insurance you choose during the rental process.

1. Opt for Full Insurance

Some rental agencies offer full insurance or excess reduction insurance, which covers most potential damages, including scratches, accidents, and theft. By taking out this insurance, you can significantly lower the deposit or, in some cases, avoid it altogether.

  • Advantage: This prevents you from having to block a large amount on your credit card and provides extra peace of mind during your trip.
  • Cost: Full insurance can cost between €10 and €30 per day, depending on the agency and the vehicle.

2. Use a Credit Card with Built-in Insurance

Certain international credit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard, include rental car insurance. If you use one of these cards to pay for the rental, you may be covered for damages, which can reduce the deposit required by the rental agency. However, it’s important to check the details of this coverage with your bank.

  • Advantage: Using a card with insurance allows you to skip purchasing additional insurance from the rental agency.
  • Limitation: Not all cards cover luxury vehicles or 4x4s, and some may exclude certain countries or types of roads.

5. What Happens if Charges Are Deducted from the Deposit?

If any charges are deducted from your deposit, the rental agency should provide a detailed explanation of why part or all of the deposit was charged. Here are the main reasons this might happen:

  • Vehicle damages: In case of scratches, dents, or more serious damage, the agency may use part of the deposit to cover repair costs.
  • Missing fuel: If you don’t return the car with a full tank, additional charges may apply.
  • Fines or violations: Speeding fines or parking tickets may be deducted from your deposit if they are reported after the vehicle is returned.
  • Vehicle cleanliness: If the car is returned in an excessively dirty condition, cleaning fees may be charged.

6. Tips to Avoid Issues with the Deposit

Here are a few tips to avoid any issues with your deposit when renting a car in Agadir:

  • Inspect the vehicle: Before taking the car, thoroughly inspect it with a rental agent. Take photos of any existing damages and report them immediately to the agency.
  • Return the car in the same condition: Make sure to return the vehicle with a full tank (if required by the contract) and in a clean condition to avoid cleaning fees.
  • Follow the driving rules: Abide by speed limits and local regulations to avoid fines that could be deducted from your deposit.

Conclusion

The car rental deposit at Agadir Airport is a standard practice meant to protect rental agencies from damages and violations. By ensuring you have a credit card with a sufficient limit and opting for the right insurance coverage, you can reduce the deposit amount and avoid any extra charges. By following the tips mentioned above, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free rental experience and be able to explore Agadir and its surroundings with peace of mind.

Safe travels and enjoy your drive!