Happy to learn I am not alone having had trouble with these crooks. This time, I found Auto Europe web site through Google and as usual, candidly made a reservation, with no special worry as the car was to be provided by Europcar in Paris. This time however I was surprised to learn at Paris Roissy Airport that essential services were not included in the rate: Insurance Collision Damage, Theft Protection, Airport Surcharge, Licenses & Fees, etc, which cost me more than 140 Euros on top of an initial payment of 296 USD already paid. The total came to around 370 Euros or 480 USD: Extremely expensive for only 8 days in Paris. Later, after I complained to both AutoEurope and Europcar, I got billed by Europcar another 25 Euro apparently for no reason as I had no difficulties canceling it with my Visa card company.

Europcar is a funny Company. its web site http://www.europcar.com/EBE/module/render/Why-choose-Europcar has a section named Europcar promises. Promise No.2 states: “All inclusive prices, All inclusive rates guarantee no surprises at the desk”. Obviously Europcar is evading its promises by closely working with crooks.