Fuel Policy for Car Hire
Easy Options for Your Alpha Rental
At Alpha Car Hire, we believe in transparent and straightforward car rental. Our Fuel Policy is designed to be simple and fair, ensuring you understand your options for refuelling your hire car before, during, and at the end of your journey across Australia.
Understanding our fuel policy helps you avoid unexpected charges and makes your rental experience even smoother.
Our Standard Fuel Policy: Full to Full
Our most common and recommended fuel policy is ‘Full to Full’. This means:
- Pickup: Your Alpha Car Hire vehicle will be supplied with a full tank of fuel at the time of collection.
- Return: You are required to return the vehicle with a full tank of the correct fuel type (Unleaded or Diesel, as specified for your vehicle).
This policy is generally the most cost-effective for you, as you only pay for the fuel you use at local petrol station prices.
What Happens if the Tank Isn't Full on Return?
If the vehicle is not returned with a full tank as per the ‘Full to Full’ policy, a refuelling service charge will apply. This charge covers:
- The cost of the missing fuel: Charged at Alpha Car Hire’s rate, which may be higher than local petrol station prices.
- An administration fee: For the time and resources required to refuel the vehicle.
To avoid these additional charges, we always recommend refilling the tank yourself at a nearby petrol station just before you return the vehicle.
Important Fuel Type Information
It is critical that you use the correct fuel type for your rental vehicle.
Check the Fuel Cap
The correct fuel type (Unleaded or Diesel) is clearly indicated on the fuel cap or inside the fuel flap of your Alpha Car Hire vehicle.
Contamination Charge
Using the incorrect fuel type (e.g., putting petrol in a diesel car, or vice versa) will cause severe damage to the engine. In such cases, you will be liable for all repair costs, regardless of any liability protection or excess reduction you have chosen. This is considered a breach of the rental agreement.
Tips for Managing Your Fuel
- Locate Petrol Stations: Plan your route to include petrol stations near your drop-off location, especially if you’re returning to an airport or in an unfamiliar area.
- Check Fuel Gauge: Always check the fuel gauge before driving off from the rental branch. If it’s not full, please notify staff immediately.
- Keep Receipts (Optional): While not required, keeping your final fuel receipt can be handy for your own records, especially if there’s any query about the fuel level on return.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fuel Policy
Do I have to pay for fuel when I pick up the car?
No, when you pick up your Alpha Car Hire vehicle under the ‘Full to Full’ policy, the tank will already be full. You only pay for the fuel you consume during your rental, by refilling it before you return.
What if I don't return the car with a full tank?
If you don’t return the car with a full tank, you will be charged for the missing fuel at Alpha Car Hire’s rate (which may be higher than average local prices) plus an administration fee for the refuelling service.
Can I pre-purchase a full tank of fuel?
Alpha Car Hire’s primary policy is ‘Full to Full’. We do not typically offer a pre-purchase fuel option, as our ‘Full to Full’ policy generally offers the best value for our customers.
What happens if I put the wrong fuel in the car?
Accidentally putting the wrong fuel type (e.g., petrol in a diesel car) will cause significant engine damage. You will be held fully liable for all repair costs associated with this damage, as it’s considered a breach of the rental agreement, and is not covered by any liability protection or excess reduction options.
How will I know what type of fuel my rental car uses?
The correct fuel type (Unleaded or Diesel) is always clearly indicated on the inside of the fuel filler flap or directly on the fuel cap of your Alpha Car Hire vehicle. Please check this every time you refuel.
Drive Smart, Fuel Smart with Alpha Car Hire
Our straightforward fuel policy is designed to make your car hire experience seamless from start to finish. Drive confidently, knowing you have clear options for keeping your tank topped up.