Title: Willful Misrepresentation & Bad Faith - A Warning to All Consumers
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1 Star)
Subtitle: Turo does not sell insurance. They sell a false sense of security to avoid paying claims.
I am writing this review to warn every potential customer about Turo's deliberately deceptive business practices. My experience was not just poor customer service; it was a masterclass in bad faith and misleading advertising.
The Deception:
From the moment you book, Turo uses the language of insurance. They offer "protection plans," ask you to choose your "coverage level," and explain "deductibles." As a consumer, you are led to believe you are purchasing a regulated insurance product for peace of mind. THIS IS A LIE.
Turo's "protection plan" is an unregulated, worthless contract designed to deny claims. I purchased what was marketed as a top-tier plan, believing I was fully covered.
The Bad Faith:
When I needed to file a claim for legitimate vehicle damage, Turo's machine of denial sprang into action. They did not conduct a fair investigation. They ignored evidence, sided with their host without justification, and then presented me with an inflated bill for thousands of dollars.
Their process is designed to frustrate and intimidate you into paying. They operate in a regulatory gray area they created for themselves, ensuring you have no recourse through traditional insurance channels.
The Resolution:
After being stonewalled by Turo, I reported them to the California Department of Insurance. The CDI's response was clear: "...there is no applicable insurance policy at issue here..." The state regulator confirmed that Turo is not selling insurance, despite marketing itself as if it does.
I am now taking Turo to small claims court to recover my losses. I have also filed complaints with the California Attorney General and the FTC for deceptive business practices.
Final Warning:
Do not be fooled by Turo's slick app and marketing. You are not buying a protected rental. You are entering a high-risk agreement with a company that has built its business model on avoiding accountability. The few dollars you might save over a traditional rental company are not worth the thousands of dollars of risk you are accepting.
My advice: Use a licensed, regulated, and legitimate car rental company. Your financial security is not worth gambling on Turo.