Avoid Atlas Car Hire

mraardvark

Hired a car in Crete through Atlas in September. Arrived at the airport after dark and taken by the car hire rep to an off airport car park (having had to leave my wife and our luggage at the airport). There was no appreciable lighting. I was told I was liable to a 670 euo excess for any damage to the car and told to sign a form which I was unable to read in the darkness. I asked to inspect the vehicle - I was told there was no need as it was in perfect order. I had a small torch and was able to see there was a substantial amount of damage - scratches and paint chips - the rep then admitted there were "just a few scratches to the rear door. The scratch marks extended the length of the car and there were numerous others which the rep tried to fob off as "dust marks and dried mud".
There was also a cigarette burn on the driver's seat which I had to point out. I then had to drive back to the airport without any guidance or direction. I checked the car further the following morning and found lots more damage - I took photographs. The car had 156.300 kilometres on the clock and was at least 5 or 6 years old.
I emailed a complaint to Atlas that day and was given a complaint reference number - in spite of four further emails - with complaint reference numbers - I have had no response to the complaint. I have now returned from the holiday. I felt unable to use the vehicle as there were many mechanical problems with it and my holiday enjoyment was severely impaired as a result.
Atlas customer service is absolutely appalling and I would strongly advise everyone to avoid them and to go with more reputable and responsible companies.