How to Stop Hertz’s AI Scanners from Charging You Hundreds for Minor Scrapes
And why every traveler should know this before their next rental
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we drive — and now, it’s changing the way we return rental cars. But not all change is good.
Hertz has quietly rolled out AI-powered vehicle scanners at several major U.S. airports, and customers are sounding the alarm. These scanners are flagging renters for microscopic scrapes and dings that most humans wouldn’t even notice — and charging hundreds of dollars in fees.
🚨 What’s Really Happening?
Hertz is partnering with a company called UVeye, whose scanners act like an “MRI for cars.” As you return your vehicle, it drives through a scanner tunnel that captures high-resolution images of:
Hairline scratches
Tiny windshield chips
Minor tire wear
Underbody scuffs
Quarter-inch door dings
These are the types of things that were never noticed (or billed) before. Historically, high-turnover airport rental centers focused on cleaning and flipping cars quickly — not arguing over a scuff on the wheel well.
But now, the AI sees everything. And it never forgets.
💸 The Charges Are Real — And Growing
Examples of recent customer charges include:
$440 for a 1-inch wheel scuff
$265 for a faint scratch on the trunk
$125 “processing fee” + $65 “administrative fee” — even if no repair occurs
Worse yet, if you dispute the charge, you’ll often miss the “early payment discount window,” meaning you get hit with higher fees just for asking questions.
According to internal numbers, Hertz’s AI system is billing out nearly 5x more customers than before.
🛑 Why You Should Be Concerned
This isn’t about fairness — it’s about profit.
AI damage detection has turned into a new revenue stream for rental companies. And once you’re in the system, challenging a false damage claim is an uphill battle. Many customers feel helpless, pressured, or confused.
And this tech isn’t staying with Hertz.
Other rental giants are expected to follow suit by 2026 — turning airport rentals into a minefield for unsuspecting travelers.
✅ How to Protect Yourself from AI Damage Charges
Here are six clear steps to protect yourself before you drive off the lot:
1.
Avoid AI-Enabled Locations
For now, only select airports use UVeye scanners. Known locations include:
Atlanta (ATL)
Newark (EWR)
Houston (IAH)
Phoenix (PHX)
Charlotte (CLT)
Tampa (TPA)
Call the rental desk in advance to ask if UVeye scanners are in use. If yes, consider booking at an off-airport location instead — you’ll often save on fees anyway.
2.
Take 30-60 Seconds for a Full Video Walk-Around
Before leaving the lot:
Record a 360° video, including wheels, bumper, roof, and windshield
Narrate the date, time, and rental location in the video
Don’t forget undercarriage areas and door edges
A timestamped video is your best defense against false claims.
3.
Take Close-Up Photos of Any Pre-Existing Damage
If you see anything even remotely suspicious:
Document it with close-up, high-res photos
Email the photos to yourself and the rental company as a record
Better safe than sorry.
4.
Ask for a Pre-Return Inspection (If Available)
At some locations, you can request an in-person walk-around before returning the vehicle. Do this in daylight hours, if possible, and get any comments in writing or on video.
5.
Avoid Late-Night or After-Hours Drop-Offs
When you return a car outside of business hours, there’s no one to verify the condition. That gives AI a free pass to flag you for anything it wants — with zero human review.
6.
Use a Credit Card That Offers Rental Protection
Some premium cards offer coverage against damage claims. But be sure to decline the rental company’s CDW (collision damage waiver) to activate this benefit. Always check your card’s policy before traveling.
7.
Dispute Unfair Charges Promptly — and Strategically
If you receive a damage bill:
Request timestamped evidence and repair invoices
Push back on vague or bundled charges (like “processing fees”)
File complaints with your credit card provider, BBB, and state attorney general if necessary
The Bottom Line
This isn’t about avoiding responsibility for damage. It’s about fighting back against predatory automation.
AI should help travelers, not hunt them. And until there’s real oversight or consumer protection, it’s up to you to stay vigilant.
Take 2 minutes before your next rental to document the car — it might save you hundreds later.
