TURO- DO NOT host or rent as a guest!
Warning to Anyone Considering Turo as a Host or Guest-
I never expected to have this experience, but I want to share it so others can make an informed decision before using Turo.
I joke that I’ll forever have PTSD from Turo’s hold music after spending so many hours waiting for someone to answer. It became a symbol of the frustration I experienced trying to get help.
A guest kept my vehicle far beyond the scheduled return time. Throughout the process, I repeatedly contacted Turo for assistance and was told my case had been escalated. Despite that, I received little to no meaningful follow-up or written explanation regarding my case.
I also encountered significant difficulties seeking reimbursement for expenses related to the trip. The support process felt slow, inconsistent, and frustrating. I often had to repeat my situation to different representatives, and it was extremely difficult to get clear answers or accountability.
Another important consideration for anyone thinking about becoming a Turo host is what happens after an accident. Three of my vehicles were involved in accidents while listed on Turo. Although repair costs may be covered if they qualify under Turo’s protection plan, your vehicle can be unavailable for weeks or even months while repairs are completed. During that time, the vehicle generally can’t be rented, meaning you may lose rental income while your monthly loan payments, insurance premiums, registration, and other ownership costs continue. Even if repairs are covered, the lost income and ongoing expenses can create a significant financial burden.
My biggest concern is that I felt unsupported as a host when I needed Turo’s assistance the most. If you rely on your vehicle for income, understand that disputes can become lengthy and stressful, and the outcome may not match your expectations.
These are only a few of the issues I experienced. I had too many to list, and all of this occurred in less than 12 months as a host. For me, it was one of the most stressful years I’ve experienced, and I would have made a very different decision had I known what to expect.
This post reflects my personal experience. I encourage anyone considering Turo—whether as a host or a guest—to thoroughly read the policies, understand the risks, and decide whether the platform is the right fit for them.