PUBLISHED ON May, 17 2023
UPDATED ON Apr, 14 2026
When renting a car from Sixt, understanding your options for Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is crucial. LDW provides protection against potential rental car damage or theft of the rental vehicle, giving you peace of mind during your rental period. In this article, we will delve into the details of Sixt’s Loss Damage Waiver and explore the different options available. By familiarizing yourself with these options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and ensures a hassle-free car rental experience.
By understanding your LDW options and evaluating your individual needs, you can choose the most appropriate level of coverage for your rental. We will provide insights on assessing personal risk tolerance, considering the value and condition of the rental vehicle, and comparing costs associated with LDW options. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of reviewing car rental agreements and exploring different types of car rental insurance, including existing insurance coverage or credit card benefits that may affect your decision.

Sixt charged €387 ($450) for this minor scratch
Sixt offers different car rental insurance options that customers can choose from based on their specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the insurance options typically available with Sixt:

SIXT Australia Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2025
It’s important to note that the availability and specific details of these insurance options may vary depending on the location and specific rental terms. Renters should carefully review the terms and conditions of each insurance option to understand the coverage, exclusions, limitations, and any additional costs associated with their choice.
By offering different insurance options, Sixt aims to provide flexibility and cater to the varying needs of their customers. Renters should consider their personal preferences, budget, and level of desired coverage when selecting the appropriate insurance option from Sixt.
The cost of Sixt LDW can vary depending on several factors, including the location, duration of the rental, type of coverage, and any additional options or add-ons chosen. Here are some key factors that can influence the cost of car rental insurance from Sixt:

SIXT France Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2025
In general, Sixt offer 3 types of coverage –

SIXT Germany Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2025
To obtain the precise cost of car rental insurance from Sixt, it is advisable to request a quote or contact their customer service directly. By providing specific rental details and preferences, such as location, dates, and desired coverage, Sixt can provide you with an accurate estimate of the insurance cost associated with your rental. If you purchase CarInsuRent car rental insurance, the excess amount can be eliminated and reduced to zero for as low as $8.49 per day* to $129.90 for an annual policy. You will also need to provide a deposit at the time of picking the car, which is totally refundable. For the majority of vehicles, this is set at €900.
* Price is calculated based on 10 days of rental.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Sixt Car Rental Insurance
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SIXT Spain Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2025
Mr .Viktor, a customer from Belgium, rented a Volvo XC40 for 4 days at Charles de Gaulle airport. Despite declining the rental company’s insurance coverage due to its high cost, Viktor decided to purchase standalone car hire excess insurance from CarInsuRent after reading about its benefits.

Copy of Viktor Car Hire Excess Policy
While driving in Beauvais late at night to his hotel, he approached a narrow street. The street was bounded by stone wall on the right hand side. Being a little bit tired, he focused his attention on the vehicle coming in front, coming too close to the wall. Viktor scratched the doors and rear fender of the rental car because of the collision.

Sixt Damage Report

Images of Viktor Damage to Sixt Rental car
Unfortunately, Sixt charged Mr. Viktor EUR 1,760 + VAT for the damage.

Sixt Repair Cost
However, Viktor had purchased the best car rental insurance from CarInsuRent, which covered the excess amount he would have to pay in such situations. As a result, he was able to file a claim with us, and we reimbursed him for the repair costs incurred by the rental company. This saved Viktor thousands of Euros, as he only had to pay US$ 38.06 for the car hire excess coverage instead of the full repair bill.
We compared and analyzed Super Collision Damage Waiver costs for a 7-day rental of a standard car class (December 21st – December 27th). The car rental insurance rates listed here are subject to change by the car rental companies without notice. For the most up-to-date pricing information, we encourage you to request a free online quote prior to booking.
CarInsuRent’s car hire excess protection for rental vehicles in Europe offers the same coverage at a 70% lower cost!
| Country | Sixt Loss Damage Waiver | Avg. Super Collision Damage Waiver Cost at Counter* | Avg. Insurance Deductible at Counter* | Avg. Cost for Rental Car Excess Insurance with CarInsuRent |
| Australia | Included at the rental price | AU$ 49.01 | AU$ 6,050 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |
| France | Included at the rental price | € 24.39 | € 2,500 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |
| Germany | Included at the rental price | € 11.63 | € 1,100 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |
| Iceland | € 11.28 | € 28.58 | € 1,735 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |
| Ireland | Included at the rental price | € 27.21 | € 2,000 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |
| Italy | Included at the rental price | € 26.58 | € 1,800 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |
| Spain | Included at the rental price | € 34.41 | € 1,400 | US$ 8.49 per day or US$ 129.90 for annual coverage |

SIXT Iceland Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2025
Car hire excess insurance for 10 days rental in Europe with CarInsuRent will cost € 55 (US$64.90) compared to € 308 when purchasing the equivalent coverage from Sixt. Total potential saving: € 253.
If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car, there are certain steps you should follow to file a claim.
Transparency and responsiveness are foundational principles of CarInsuRent’s claims process. All claims are assessed strictly in accordance with clearly defined policy terms that are publicly available to customers prior to purchase. Claim outcomes, whether approvals or declines, are accompanied by written explanations referencing the applicable policy provisions and documentation requirements.
In line with this commitment to transparency, CarInsuRent publishes aggregated claims statistics and trend analysis, available in our Annual Claims Report.
👉 Required Documentation for Filing a Claim

What Documents Do I Need to File My Claim?
👉 Tips for a Smooth Claims Process: Filing a claim can be a complicated and stressful process. By following these tips, you can help ensure a smoother claims process, and increase the chances of receiving the maximum benefit that you are entitled to under your policy.

Claims Process
In conclusion, having car rental insurance with Sixt is not mandatory. Sixt offers several auto insurance products to cover your rental car. While LDW is a part of your rental fee, there is an excess. You purchase Excess Protection, a package offered by Sixt, that lowers the excess for the majority of cars to zero. The daily fee for this service is US$ 5.71 – US$ 41.47, depending on the type of coverage you choose.

SIXT Italy Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2024
Sixt’s collision damage waiver can be the best option if you want the greatest level of comfort and are willing to pay for it. You can save money by shopping around and buy car hire insurance online for as low as $8.49 per day to $129.90 for an annual policy.
Before choosing an Sixt rental car insurance policy, you should confirm what level of coverage is included with your personal auto insurance policy or the credit card you used to reserve the vehicle. By doing this, you can avoid paying for the same coverage more than once.
Ultimately, understanding the different types of insurance available to you and making an informed decision can help you have a stress-free and affordable car rental experience with Sixt.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Sixt Car Rental Insurance
Get StartedIn conclusion, this article aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision regarding Sixt’s Loss Damage Waiver options. By understanding the coverage, costs, and personal considerations, you can confidently select the LDW option that aligns with your needs and enjoy a worry-free car rental experience with Sixt.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is not automatically included in all car hire packages with Sixt. The inclusion of CDW depends on various factors such as the destination and type of booking. While CDW may not be automatically included, Sixt offers options for purchasing Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or Premium Protection packages that provide coverage for accidental damage to the rental vehicle, reducing the financial responsibility in case of damage or theft.
Sixt car rental insurance typically costs between $15 to $45 per day depending on the protection level and location. Basic Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) starts around $15-$25 per day with a deductible of $500-$3,000, while premium Smart Protection (Super LDW or zero-excess) packages cost $30-$45 daily. Additional coverage options like Theft Protection, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), and Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) add $5-$15 each per day. Over a week-long rental, total insurance costs can range from $105 to $315 or more, often exceeding the base rental rate itself. CarInsuRent offers comprehensive rental car excess insurance starting from just $8.49 per day or $129.90 annually, providing equivalent or superior coverage while saving 60-80% compared to Sixt’s counter rates. Compare CarInsuRent’s coverage and rates with Sixt’s insurance options before your rental date.
LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) limits your liability with a deductible/excess typically ranging from $500-$3,000, while Super LDW reduces this excess to zero or near-zero. Standard LDW often excludes tires, windshield, undercarriage, and roof damage, whereas Smart Protection may include some of these items depending on location. Smart Protection (Super LDW) costs significantly more (often $20-$35 extra per day) than standard LDW. However, CarInsuRent offers comprehensive zero-excess coverage including all exclusions at lower rates than Sixt’s Smart Protection.
Sixt insurance typically costs $15 to $45 per day depending on coverage level and location. Basic LDW ranges from $15-$25 daily, while Smart Protection (Super LDW) cost $30-$45 per day. Additional protections like theft protection, personal accident insurance, and roadside assistance add $5-$15 each per day. Over a week, Sixt insurance can add $105 to $315 to your rental cost. CarInsuRent provides equivalent or superior coverage starting from $6.90 per day, offering 60-80% savings compared to Sixt’s counter rates. Check your Sixt booking confirmation for exact insurance pricing at your specific location.
Location dramatically affects Sixt insurance costs, with airport locations charging 15-25% more than city branches. Premium, luxury, and specialty vehicles (convertibles, SUVs, sports cars) carry insurance premiums 30-50% higher than economy cars. International locations have vastly different pricing structures – European rentals typically cost more than U.S. rentals. Longer rental periods don’t usually receive daily insurance discounts, making standalone annual policies from CarInsuRent increasingly cost-effective for frequent renters.
Yes, you can purchase standalone rental car insurance from third-party providers like CarInsuRent instead of buying Sixt’s insurance. CarInsuRent offers daily coverage from $6.90 and annual policies starting at $129.90, providing significant savings compared to Sixt’s $15-$45 daily rates. Standalone policies typically offer broader coverage including items Sixt excludes (tires, windshield, undercarriage, key loss). You simply decline Sixt’s insurance at the counter and provide proof of your standalone coverage if requested. CarInsuRent’s coverage is accepted by Sixt worldwide and reimburses you for excess charges. Compare CarInsuRent’s rates with Sixt’s insurance before your rental date.
Upon returning the vehicle, SIXT conducts a thorough inspection to identify any new damage. If damage is discovered, it is documented, and the Claims Department investigates the claim. Unless you have purchased a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and complied with the rental Terms and Conditions, you will be charged the applicable cost of repair.
In addition to repair costs, all damage claims are subject to an administrative fee.
Sixt rental car insurance covers collision damage, theft protection, and third-party liability depending on the package selected. Standard LDW covers vehicle body damage but typically excludes tires, windshield, undercarriage, roof, mirrors, and interior damage. Smart Protection (Super LDW) may include some excluded items but varies by location. Theft Protection covers vehicle theft but may have separate excess amounts. Additional packages cover personal accident insurance and personal effects. CarInsuRent provides comprehensive coverage including all items commonly excluded by Sixt’s standard packages.
Sixt insurance is generally not worth it due to high daily costs and limited coverage compared to alternatives. At $15-$45 per day, Sixt insurance can cost more than the rental itself over a week-long trip. Many exclusions (tires, windshield, undercarriage) leave you exposed to charges even with “full coverage”. CarInsuRent offers superior coverage for 60-80% less than Sixt’s rates, often including items Sixt excludes. Credit cards and personal auto insurance may also provide adequate coverage. If you need immediate coverage with no alternatives, Sixt insurance provides convenience despite premium pricing. Compare CarInsuRent coverage and pricing before accepting Sixt’s insurance at the counter.
You must report any damage to Sixt immediately, even minor scratches, chips, or dents. Sixt will document the damage with photos and an incident report, then charge repair costs up to your excess/deductible amount (typically $500-$3,000 without Smart Protection). Without damage waiver coverage, you’re liable for full repair costs plus loss-of-use fees, administrative charges, and diminished value claims. With Sixt’s LDW or Super LDW, your liability is capped or eliminated depending on coverage. If you have CarInsuRent coverage, you pay Sixt initially then file for reimbursement, typically processed within 5-10 business days. Document everything with timestamped photos and obtain copies of all damage assessment reports from Sixt.
First, report any incident to Sixt and local authorities immediately if legally required. Complete Sixt’s accident/incident report form and photograph all damage from multiple angles. If you purchased Sixt’s damage waiver, they process the claim internally with no further action from you. If using external coverage like CarInsuRent, you’ll pay Sixt’s charges initially, then file a reimbursement claim with supporting documentation. CarInsuRent typically processes claims within 5-10 business days with proper documentation. Keep all paperwork including rental agreements, damage reports, police reports, and payment receipts.
Sixt does not legally require you to purchase their insurance if you have adequate coverage from other sources. However, you must demonstrate proof of insurance meeting minimum liability requirements in the rental location. Acceptable proof includes personal auto insurance, credit card coverage confirmation, or standalone policies like CarInsuRent. Some international Sixt locations may have different mandatory insurance requirements. Without proof of adequate coverage, Sixt may require you to purchase their insurance or decline the rental. Verify your existing coverage and bring documentation to the rental counter.
Basic liability insurance is sometimes included in Sixt rental rates, but coverage varies significantly by location and rental type. In some U.S. states and many international locations, minimum third-party liability is included by law. However, collision damage protection (LDW/CDW) is almost never included in the base rate. Most standard rentals require you to purchase damage waivers and additional coverage separately at $15-$65 per day. CarInsuRent provides comprehensive coverage including what Sixt excludes from standard packages. Check your Sixt confirmation email to see exactly what’s included in your quoted price.
Sixt Smart Protection typically excludes damage from prohibited uses like off-roading, racing, or driving under the influence. Interior damage, missing equipment, fuel charges, parking tickets, and traffic violations are not covered. Damage caused by unauthorized drivers or violations of rental agreement terms is excluded. Key loss or replacement, certain roadside assistance costs, and personal belongings are usually not included. Specific exclusions vary by location and rental agreement. CarInsuRent often covers items excluded by Sixt ‘s standard policies. Review Sixt ‘s Smart Protection terms document at your rental location for complete exclusion details.
Sixt Smart Protection usually includes windshield and glass damage, but coverage details vary by location. In most U.S. locations, Super Cover provides zero-excess glass coverage for the full windshield, windows, and mirrors. Some international locations may charge a separate glass excess or exclude certain types of glass damage. Minor chips versus full cracks may be treated differently depending on the market. Standard LDW typically has an excess even for glass damage. CarInsuRent comprehensively covers windshield and glass damage with no separate deductible.
Many credit cards offer secondary rental car coverage for Sixt rentals, but coverage varies significantly by card issuer and type. Secondary coverage pays after your personal auto insurance, meaning you must file with your primary insurance first. Premium credit cards may offer primary coverage that applies before other insurance. Most credit card coverage excludes certain vehicle types (trucks, luxury cars, vans), international rentals in specific countries, and rentals exceeding 15-31 days. Loss-of-use fees and administrative charges are typically excluded. CarInsuRent provides more comprehensive and predictable coverage than most credit card benefits.
You need proof of adequate insurance but don’t have to purchase Sixt’s insurance specifically. Acceptable coverage sources include personal auto insurance, credit card rental benefits, or standalone policies like CarInsuRent. You must meet minimum liability requirements for the rental location, typically $15,000-$100,000 depending on jurisdiction. International rentals may have different mandatory coverage requirements. Without proof of coverage, Sixt may require you to purchase their insurance or may decline to rent to you. CarInsuRent provides internationally recognized coverage accepted by Sixt worldwide.
Most personal auto insurance policies extend coverage to Sixt rentals, but coverage levels vary significantly. Your policy typically provides the same liability and physical damage coverage as your personal vehicle, with identical deductibles. Some policies exclude business use, certain vehicle types, or international rentals. Collision and comprehensive coverage on your personal policy usually extends to rentals, but verify this with your insurer. Using personal insurance for rental damage may raise your rates or affect your claims history. CarInsuRent provides rental-specific coverage without impacting your personal auto insurance.
Most credit card rental coverage explicitly excludes loss-of-use fees (charges for revenue Sixt loses during repairs) and administrative fees. These exclusions can result in $50-$200 per day in uncovered loss-of-use charges plus $100-$300 in administrative fees. Credit card coverage typically only addresses the vehicle’s physical damage repair costs. Premium credit cards may offer broader coverage, but exclusions are common even on high-tier cards. Sixt aggressively pursues loss-of-use and admin fee recovery. CarInsuRent’s policies typically cover these additional charges that credit cards exclude.
I rented with SIXT and damaged the side mirror cover.
According to their own invoice the cost of the part is €65. The final invoice was €400 adding all sorts of labour plus €50 for loss of time (1.6 hrs).
Is there anyway that I can dispute this?
This is worth disputing. Reply to Sixt in writing requesting an itemized breakdown of all labour charges and the basis for the loss-of-time fee. In many EU countries, rental companies are required to justify repair costs with actual garage invoices — a €65 part doesn’t reasonably justify €335 in additional charges. If Sixt can’t provide a third-party repair invoice, escalate to your credit card’s dispute team. You can also contact the European Car Rental Conciliation Service (ECRCS) if Sixt is a member — it’s a free arbitration route specifically for these situations.
I returned my car to SIXT and the employee noted that there’s no damages.
A few days later I got a damage notification for a small scratch on the bumper which could’ve been done by the employee upon moving the vehicle.
I regret not taking photos upon retun and advise everyone who plans on traveling and to re-consider sixt as their car rental of choice.
After dealing with Sixt firsthand and speaking with others who’ve had similar experiences, here are some tactics to watch out for:
1. Phantom damage claims – If you decline their Loss Damage Waiver, don’t be surprised if an email arrives weeks later citing damage you never caused – with a bill attached. This appears to be a deliberate strategy targeting renters who might just pay without questioning it. Your best defence: do a thorough walk-around when you pick up the car and record a timestamped video of every panel, including existing scratches. Never rely on the agent’s verbal assurance that “everything is documented.”
2. “Free” upgrades that aren’t free – Be very cautious if an agent offers you a complimentary upgrade. Some renters find unexpected charges tied to that “free” vehicle when they return. If you didn’t request it, get written confirmation of the exact price before accepting any vehicle swap.
Bottom line — always: Film the car inside and out at pickup AND drop-off. Never accept verbal promises — get everything in writing
This is an excellent and important warning — unfortunately these tactics are far too common across the rental industry, not just Sixt. The phantom damage claim in particular is something we hear about regularly from renters.
This is exactly why independent rental excess insurance exists. With CarInsuRent, you get:
1. Coverage you control — purchased before pickup, with clear policy terms that don’t change at the counter
2. A specialist insurer in your corner — if a rental company files a damage claim against you, you have professional backup to dispute or cover it
3. A straightforward claims process — if a charge is legitimate, we handle it; if it’s fabricated, your documentation (video, photos) supports your defence
Your advice about filming the car at pickup and drop-off is spot on — we always recommend this regardless of what insurance you hold.
If anyone has already received a suspicious post-rental charge and needs guidance, feel free to get in touch — we’re happy to help.
This article provides a clear explanation of the Sixt Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and its alternatives, making it much easier to understand the coverage options available when renting a car. The comparison of Sixt’s coverage with external car rental insurance options is particularly helpful for travelers trying to save money and get the best protection. Great work on simplifying such a complex topic!
Thanks for posting this useful guide.
I can definitely save some money on my next rental with sixt 🙂