Enterprise Charges Couple $10,000 for Diesel Mistake in Rental Car Fiasco
An unusual car rental incident has emerged involving a Canadian couple and Enterprise, which claims the couple owes $9,500 for a fuel mishap. Kelly and Katherine Graves rented a Dodge Durango during their vacation in the Edmonton, Alberta region. They recently received alarming communication from the rental company, accusing them of putting diesel fuel into the vehicle.
Details of the Rental Fiasco
After returning home, the Graves were surprised to find an email from Enterprise. The company alleged that diesel fuel had been found in the engine of the Durango, causing it to malfunction. The rental company provided two options: pay the hefty bill or file an insurance claim.
- Amount owed: $9,500
- Vehicle rented: 2025 Dodge Durango
- Location: Edmonton International Airport
Despite the claim, the couple maintained they had not filled the tank with diesel. They had kept receipts and photographs supporting their assertion. The couple managed two separate fuel purchases that totaled over 48 liters of regular gasoline.
Evidence Supporting the Graves
The receipts clearly indicated that the couple used a standard fuel pump that dispensed only gasoline, not diesel. The photos also showed that the pump did not have diesel fuel available. The Graves believed that it would have been impossible to accidentally fill the Durango with diesel due to the vehicle’s design, which prevents such errors.
When renting, newer cars, including the Durango, are equipped with filler necks designed specifically for regular gasoline nozzles, making it difficult to misfuel.
The Aftermath
Following the accusations, Enterprise contacted the Graves multiple times. Initially, they believed their denials were taken seriously, but nine months later, they received the shocking invoice for $9,500. Enlisting legal assistance, the couple gathered documents to bolster their case.
Once inquiries were made on their behalf, Enterprise opted to drop the claim. A statement from the company indicated that they were “unable to verify additional details regarding the fuel source.” This led to questions about their initial pursuit of the charges.
- Duration of dispute: nearly one year
- Legal representation: engaged after receiving bill
Lessons Learned
Now free from the looming financial burden, the Graves hope to educate other renters. Keeping meticulous records, including receipts and photos, can be invaluable in disputes with rental companies. Additionally, considering different rental services may be prudent for travelers in the future.
