Car Hire Fuel Policies – What You Need to Know
One of the most debated topics in the rental industry is the car hire fuel policy. Which option offers the best value, and why do some seem unfair? Over the past decade, customer pressure has led most rental companies to adopt the popular “Full to Full” policy – and for good reason.
At Rhino Car Hire, we recommend Full to Full as the best value option, but it’s important to understand the small print. Under this policy, you collect the car with a full tank of fuel and must return it full. Do that, and you’ll avoid any extra costs. Forget to top up, however, and you’ll face hefty refuelling surcharges applied by the rental company.
Why “Full to Full” Works Best
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Best Value: You only pay the forecourt price for the fuel you actually use.
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Flexibility: Choose where and when to refuel before returning your car.
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Transparency: No hidden prepaid fuel costs inflating your rental price.
The Cost of Not Refuelling
If you return your car without a full tank, you’ll be charged not just for the missing fuel but also an admin fee or surcharge. These fees vary widely between rental agents:
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Hertz: Up to 3x the pump price – a £50 refill could cost you £150+.
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Avis & Budget: Double the pump price.
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Europcar: Pump price + £1.60 per litre.
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Interrent: Pump price + £15 surcharge (fairer, but still avoidable).
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Centauro: Pump price + €30 fee.
Some companies charge per litre, others apply fixed admin fees – either way, you’ll always pay more than at the petrol station.
Fuel Policy Tips for Car Hire Customers
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Check the Terms: Not all rental agents offer Full to Full – always review before booking.
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Plan Ahead: Allow time to refuel before returning the car, especially near airports.
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Keep the Receipt: Proof of refuelling can help resolve disputes.
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Avoid “Full to Empty” Offers: They sound convenient, but you’ll likely overpay for unused fuel.
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Factor Costs Into Your Choice: Sometimes a cheaper daily rate is offset by a costly fuel policy.
Final Word
At Rhino Car Hire, we believe Full to Full is the fairest fuel policy for customers. Stick to it, return your car topped up, and you’ll avoid unnecessary surcharges. If you’re ever unsure, check your rental agreement or ask our team before booking.
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