I had a car accident on Feb. 11. I needed a car rental and my insurance company directed me to Enterprise. I was given a 2005 Chevy Cobalt and had it for three weeks while my car was being repaired. There were a few times I thought I smelled gas, but thought nothing of it.
On the final day of renting, the car suddenly started shaking. At that point the gas tank was almost empty. I never let the gas get that low but I had been visiting my elderly mom at the nursing home the previous evening, was so tired that I decided to wait until the morning to fill the tank.
When the car started acting strangely, I decided to drive directly to work (a ten minute drive). I immediately called Enterprise and explained the situation. I told them I had meant to fill the tank that morning but because of the problem with the car, didn't. They said it was no problem and I should just drive the car back to them (another ten minute drive). I was actually hesitant to drive the car. I wanted someone from the company to come and take it, but no on was available. And, so I drove the car.
Upon delivery, I paid what I owed. I had not taken the extra insurance and only owed a bit of money for what my insurance wouldn't cover. I left Enterprise thinking all was well, only to receive a phone call from them a few days later. I was told there was water in the gas tank and should call my insurance company for them to investigate. I called and the insurance company said they do not initiate investigations. I let Enterprise know. Again I thought that would be the end of it.
Well, I was mistaken. I eventually received a letter from Enterprise asking for my insurance information, or a credit card because there was a claim against me for the car. When I spoke with the claim representative, all she could say was "it's in the contract". I then called my local Enterprise and spoke with the manager, Jason. He was very helpful and gave me the number of someone (Erin) to call at the main location, which I did.
Our first phone call was fine. Erin was pleasant and said that in determining liability they use logic. I explained I only use one gas station (Sunoco), but this time had used another Sunoco station in addition (owned by my friend). At the end of the conversation I felt that Erin had been helpful and everything would be okay.
Wrong again! I received another letter from Enterprise, this time with a bill for almost $1200! Included were the estimate from the dealer, and an invoice which showed parts ordered. Apparently they replaced four "injectors". Also included in the bill were administrative charges, etc. I had left a message for Erin the previous day, and so called her immediately. This time it was another story.
Basically she said they'd found water in the tank, they had a little bottle with the water to prove it (seriously?), and that I was responsible. When I told her it wasn't possible the water had come from the gas, then she said it must have been vandalism. Well, that's rather interesting since I live in one of the safest towns in the US. And, I go to work, the grocery store, church, and to visit my mom!
I did contact both Sunoco station owners. My friend left a message for Erin, explaining how it's not possible water got in the tank from Sunoco gas. The other ownercontacted one of his superiors. I also called my insurance agent and explained the situation. At this moment I am waiting to hear back from them.
I do have a theory that Enterprise is in collusion with the car dealership and I'm guessing this practice isn't limited to just my area. Also, my nephew works for Channel 5 News in NY as a reporter and I've already left him a message!
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