Hertz Turns to AI for Rental Car Inspections, Faces Backlash Over Fees

Modernizing Rental Inspections with AI

In 2025, Hertz has redefined the rental experience by integrating advanced artificial intelligence into its vehicle inspection process. This cutting-edge system, developed in collaboration with UVeye, utilizes high-resolution cameras and machine learning algorithms, allowing the company to perform precise and consistent checks that traditionally took manual inspection teams much longer. By automating these procedures, Hertz aims to reduce human error and increase overall efficiency.

Most importantly, AI technology now allows Hertz to offer digital condition reports that are accessible in real time. Because the system evaluates the car’s exterior, interior, tires, and even the undercarriage with pinpoint accuracy, customers receive immediate feedback at both pickup and drop-off. Therefore, this method not only streamlines the rental process but also promises a fairer dispute resolution when damage claims arise. For further details on the technology, you can refer to Car and Driver and Hertz Newsroom.

Why Hertz Adopted AI Inspections

Traditionally, manual inspections were vulnerable to discrepancies due to time constraints, human error, and environmental factors. Because inspectors could miss subtle damage or inadvertently overlook minor wear and tear, rental disputes were common. Most importantly, deploying an AI-based system is seen as a step toward greater transparency and accountability. By automating the process, Hertz provides digital records that can be reviewed by both staff and renters, ensuring that any claim over damage is based on solid evidence.

Besides that, the AI solution promises to speed up vehicle turnaround, allowing rental locations to manage higher volumes of transactions without sacrificing quality. Therefore, it is not surprising that this technological shift comes as part of a broader industry move towards digitization. This investment in AI underscores Hertz’s commitment to modernizing vehicle maintenance and rental procedures, as detailed on UVeye’s partnership page and The Points Guy.

How the Technology Works

When a renter approaches the vehicle, the process starts at an AI-powered scanner. This system is equipped with multiple high-resolution cameras that capture detailed images of every accessible surface of the car. Because the algorithm has been trained on thousands of data points, it is capable of detecting even minute scratches or dents that might have been overlooked by human eyes. In addition, the sensor network inspects less obvious components like tire tread and undercarriage integrity.

Most importantly, the data captured gets immediately processed, generating a digital report. This report clearly outlines all findings, ensuring that both the renter and the company have an objective record of the vehicle’s condition. Therefore, as explained in recent reports on View from the Wing, the combination of advanced imaging and rapid analysis minimizes disputes, yet also raises questions about fee imposition for even insignificant imperfections.

Backlash: Customer Concerns Over Fees and Fairness

The introduction of this technology, however, has not been without its detractors. One key complaint is the sudden imposition of fees for minor, sometimes barely visible damage. Because the AI system flags even the smallest imperfections, customers have experienced unexpectedly high charges; for example, some renters reported fees of up to $440 for what they considered negligible scratches. Most importantly, these incidents have triggered widespread concerns on social media and travel forums.

Because many customers worry that this technology is less about improving quality and more about justifying new charges, they often compare their experiences unfavorably with traditional inspection methods. Therefore, while the AI provides a clear digital record, it also means that even trivial marks can translate into costly penalties. This situation raises important questions about the balance between technological precision and customer convenience, as discussed on The Points Guy.

Hertz’s Response and Consumer Protection

Hertz has been quick to respond to customer criticism, insisting that the AI inspection system was implemented to create a more transparent and reliable process for everyone involved. Most importantly, the company maintains that digital records help both parties quickly resolve disputes. Consequently, Hertz argues that the new system empowers renters with detailed evidence, making it easier to contest any excessive or erroneous fees.

Because Hertz continues to invest in further refinements and customer service training, the company hopes to demonstrate that the AI system is not designed to penalize renters unfairly, but rather to ensure that the recorded conditions are accurate. Therefore, it is urged that renters carefully review the digital condition report provided at check-in and check-out. Visit Hertz Newsroom for further statements on consumer protection efforts.

What This Means for Renters

For renters, the shift toward AI inspections brings a mix of advantages and potential drawbacks. Because the process is designed to be fast and accurate, customers do not have to endure lengthy manual checks, which often result in frustration during busy periods. Most importantly, the digital record provides clear evidence of a vehicle’s condition that can be used in disputes.

However, with these advantages come concerns about unexpected financial penalties. Therefore, it is essential for renters to become familiar with how the system works. Besides that, it is wise to take personal precautions, such as capturing independent photos of the rental vehicle upon arrival and prior to return. These steps can serve as an additional layer of protection, as recommended by trusted travel experts on sites like View from the Wing.

The Future of AI in Car Rentals

Looking ahead, AI is poised to transform the entire car rental industry. Because companies like Hertz are at the forefront of this change, the industry can expect rapid advancements in vehicle maintenance, efficiency, and customer service. Most importantly, integrating AI also opens the door for future innovations that may further refine vehicle condition assessments and customer dispute resolutions.

Besides that, the evolution of AI-based inspections may serve as a blueprint for other sectors within the travel industry. Because of these possibilities, it is not surprising that numerous companies are exploring similar technologies to stay competitive. Therefore, both rental companies and customers need to remain agile and informed as these changes take hold, ensuring that the benefits of technology do not come at the expense of fairness or clarity.

Preparing for the New Era

Ultimately, as AI becomes an integral part of the car rental process, both companies and renters must adapt to new standards of accountability. Because technological advancements are unstoppable, prospective renters should familiarize themselves with digital inspection processes and understand the potential risks and rewards. Most importantly, clear communication and updated rental agreements will be essential in mitigating unexpected charges.

Therefore, as you plan your next rental, pay close attention to the details of your agreement and the digital reports provided. In doing so, you can take advantage of the efficiency that AI offers while simultaneously safeguarding your interests. This dual approach will ensure that both parties benefit from the technological leap forward that Hertz and its partners represent.

References

• Car and Driver: Hertz Is Using AI to Scan Your Rental Car for Damage
• Hertz and UVeye Announce Partnership
• UVeye & Hertz Partnership
• View from the Wing: Hertz Bills Renters for Tiny Scratches
• The Points Guy: Hertz Rolling Out AI Rental Car Inspections