How much is the SIXT car hold fee?

[AllieLynn]

The SIXT car hold fee is a security deposit, typically a minimum of the estimated rental cost plus $200, but can reach $500 or more for premium vehicles. This temporary authorization on your card is not an extra charge but a hold on funds, released 3-10 business days after you return the car undamaged. The exact amount depends on your rental location, vehicle category, and chosen protection package.

A key factor is your payment method. Credit cards are strongly preferred; the hold is a simple authorization that disappears upon vehicle return, though your bank may take 3-10 business days to reflect the release. Using a debit card triggers an immediate deduction of the full hold amount from your account. The refund process is slower, often taking 5-15 business days post-return, which can significantly impact your available balance.

The vehicle category directly influences the hold amount. While a standard economy car might have a hold of the rental total plus $200, a premium luxury or sports car can require a hold of $500 or more. It's critical to confirm the exact amount for your specific reservation before pickup.

To ensure a smooth process, the card must be in the primary driver's name and have sufficient available funds to cover the total hold. SIXT does not accept cash deposits under any circumstances. Non-airport locations or specific regions, like certain cities in Texas or Colorado, may enforce higher hold amounts due to local policy.

Opting for a protection package with a $0 damage excess (fully covered) can sometimes reduce the security deposit amount. Always review your reservation confirmation and the local rental terms for the most accurate, location-specific hold fee before your trip.

Factor	Typical Impact on Hold Amount
Base Hold	Estimated rental cost + $200 (minimum standard)
Premium/Luxury Vehicle	Increase to $500 or more
Payment Method	Credit card (authorization hold); Debit card (immediate charge)
Protection Package	$0 excess option may lower the hold
Rental Location	Non-airport or specific cities may have higher requirements

[AryaAnn]

As a frequent business renter with SIXT, I always plan for the hold. My corporate card gets a $300-$500 authorization for midsize cars. It’s not a charge, but it reduces my available credit. I only use a credit card—never debit. The hold clears after I drop the car off, but my bank shows it for about a week. My advice? Call the specific branch a day before and ask, “What’s the exact authorization hold for my reservation?” Policies vary by city. Budget for that amount being locked on your card for your entire trip plus a week after.

[TheoAnn]

Let’s talk real numbers so you’re not shocked at the counter. If your total rental is $300, expect a hold of at least $500 ($300 + $200). For a fancy convertible, that could jump to $800+. The system checks for this the moment you arrive. If your card declines, you won’t get the car. I learned this the hard way on vacation. I had just enough for the rental cost, but not the extra $400 hold. Now, I only travel with a credit card that has a high limit just for this purpose. Debit cards are a terrible idea here—they actually take the money, and getting it back can take two full weeks.

[KatherineFitz]

The “hold” is a security deposit. SIXT places it to cover potential extra charges like fuel, tolls, or damage. It’s higher for expensive cars because repair costs are higher. They release it after they inspect the returned vehicle. To avoid issues: 1) Use a major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx). 2) Ensure the card is in your name. 3) Know your card's limit. 4) Check your reservation details or contact the rental location directly for their current deposit schedule. This isn't a SIXT-specific practice; most major rental companies do the same.

[LeBlakely]

I manage a SIXT station in a major tourist city. Customers are often confused by the difference between a charge and a hold. We don't keep the deposit money. For a standard sedan, the authorization is the rental total plus a $200 security buffer. For luxury models, it's $500+. This is non-negotiable and is set by our global system. The single biggest problem we see is customers using debit cards or pre-paid cards, which we cannot accept for the hold. The funds are taken immediately and refunds are slow, depending entirely on your bank. My on-the-ground tip? If you’re renting a premium car, assume a $750+ hold. Always, always use a credit card and verify the amount with the local station beforehand, as airport locations sometimes have different rules than downtown branches.