Does Chase Cover Car Rental Insurance? Everything You Need to Know

• Does Chase Cover Car Rental Insurance
• How Chase Credit Cards Handle Rental Insurance
• Primary vs Secondary Coverage Explained
• What Types of Damages Are Covered
• Limitations and Exclusions to Know
• Real-Life Examples of Coverage
• Expert Recommendations and Next Steps

1. Does Chase Cover Car Rental Insurance

Many U.S. travelers often ask: does Chase cover car rental insurance? The answer depends on the specific Chase card you use and the terms associated with it. Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve®, typically include rental car insurance benefits, but the level of coverage and conditions can vary.

2. How Chase Credit Cards Handle Rental Insurance

2.1 Chase Sapphire Reserve®

This card is known for offering primary rental insurance coverage. That means you don’t have to involve your personal auto insurance provider in the event of a claim, which can help avoid premium increases. Coverage usually applies to collision damage and theft.

2.2 Chase Sapphire Preferred®

Like the Reserve, this card also offers primary coverage when you rent a car for personal use. It’s a major reason frequent travelers consider these cards among the best for rental car benefits.

2.3 Other Chase Cards

Many other Chase cards offer rental coverage, but often on a secondary basis. That means your personal auto insurance would be billed first, and Chase would cover eligible costs not handled by your insurer.

3. Primary vs Secondary Coverage Explained

The distinction between primary and secondary coverage is important. With primary coverage, Chase pays directly for eligible damages, helping you avoid personal insurance involvement. With secondary coverage, your own insurance kicks in first, and Chase only fills in the gaps. For frequent renters, especially those traveling abroad, primary coverage can be a financial lifesaver.

4. What Types of Damages Are Covered

4.1 Collision and Theft

Chase typically covers physical damage due to collision or theft of the rental vehicle, as long as you decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver (CDW).

4.2 Loss-of-Use Fees

In many cases, Chase may also reimburse “loss-of-use” charges billed by the rental company while the car is being repaired. This is something not all credit card insurers provide.

4.3 Towing Charges

If the rental car must be towed due to an accident, towing expenses may also fall under Chase’s coverage, subject to cardholder benefits and claim approval.

5. Limitations and Exclusions to Know

5.1 Types of Vehicles

Luxury cars, exotic vehicles, motorcycles, and certain trucks may not be covered. Always review your card’s benefit guide before renting.

5.2 Geographic Restrictions

Some countries may be excluded from coverage. For example, certain Chase cards exclude rentals in Italy, Ireland, or Jamaica. Double-check your benefits if traveling internationally.

5.3 Rental Duration

Coverage usually applies only for rentals lasting up to 31 days. Longer rentals may not be eligible.

6. Real-Life Examples of Coverage

Consider a traveler in Florida who used a Chase Sapphire Preferred® to rent a midsize sedan. After a minor accident, Chase directly handled the $2,000 repair bill without involving the driver’s personal auto insurance. On the other hand, a traveler in California renting a luxury SUV discovered too late that their card excluded high-value vehicles, leaving them with an unexpected out-of-pocket expense. These stories highlight why it’s critical to understand your coverage details before signing the rental agreement.

7. Expert Recommendations and Next Steps

Before renting, always read your card’s benefits guide and confirm coverage directly with Chase if you’re unsure. Travelers who want peace of mind should consider cards with primary coverage like the Chase Sapphire series. And if you’re planning your next trip, Carvel Car Rental can help you find the right rental options, pairing affordable rates with vehicles that meet your travel needs.