Prestige Car Rentals

The car itself was great and made for a memorable birthday experience. However, I had significant issues getting the $2,000 bond returned after the vehicle was returned without damage - this was confirmed by John in a phone call following the return of the car. Despite multiple follow-ups over several weeks (put everything in writing either via… Read more

text or email), I received inconsistent communication and no clear timeframe for refund. The bond was only returned because I lodged a chargeback with my bank (I also escalated the matter to Consumer Affairs Victoria).

If hiring through this company, I would strongly recommend:

* ensure you sign an agreement before paying any hire or deposit fee *documenting the vehicle thoroughly at pickup/return *keeping all communication in writing *and understanding your chargeback rights with your bank if a refundable bond is not returned promptly. My bank escalated on my behalf and the $2k was returned in less than a week from lodgement

Unfortunately I think this company hopes that people give up chasing their bond, to enable them to keep it. Shady business practice. Before I proceeded with the hire, I even called John to voice my concerns after reading some online reviews. His explanation gave me confidence to proceed, I should've followed my gut instinct.