The organisation sent a complaint to Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs, aiming for the investigation, applying of sanction and fines against the companies. According to EuroWeeklyNews, travellers from Spain and abroad have been misled by low advertised prices, to find out that expensive add-ons are included with no clear consent. The mentioned add-ons are usually deposit requirement, fuel policies and airport pickup surcharges.

In some cases, it is reported that the clients had to share personal information, before viewing the full rental terms.

According to OCU, there were found contractual terms considered abusive that would take advantage of uninformed customers. There were issues like inflated fees for items like child seats, even when they are legally required. Some drivers report charges on adding a second driver. It was also reported that drivers had to pay for damage that was already existing in the car, and even the payment of repairs done after the car being returned.

While the official investigation unfolds, the OCU is advising travellers to take extra precautions when hiring a car in Spain. Consumers are advised to read every part of the rental contract carefully, ask questions at the desk, and refuse to sign if anything is unclear.