What you get as a renter
When you book on Sync, your level of protection depends on what you choose:
If you add the protection program: you're covered for your financial liability on physical damage you may cause to the car, including mechanical issues and damage to the interior.
If you don't add the protection program: you carry the responsibility for any damage during your booking that isn't covered by the car's insurance (Terms of Use, B.4).
We recommend adding the protection program — it's the simplest way to travel without worrying about the "what if."
How your coverage becomes complete: the Sync protection program
The protection program covers exactly the gaps left by the car's insurance. Specifically:
It covers your financial liability for damage you may cause to the car (scratches, dents, broken mirrors).
It covers mechanical damage resulting from use.
It covers damage to the car's interior.
It protects you in scenarios where the insurer denies coverage.
You can add it in seconds during booking, and the cost is small compared to the risk it replaces.
What the car owner's insurance covers
Every car on Sync is insured by its owner through Helvetia. This insurance covers the vehicle — not you personally — but it's useful to know what it includes.
Covered by the car's insurance | Not covered — but covered by the Sync protection program |
Third-party damage (civil liability) | Damage you cause to the car (scratches, dents, broken mirrors) |
Theft of the entire vehicle | Mechanical damage from use |
Fire | Damage to the car's interior |
Damage by a third party with details or a police report | Scenarios where the insurer denies coverage |
You don't need to bring your own insurance from elsewhere. The car is already insured by its owner.
What happens if you don't choose the protection program
It's entirely your choice. If you prefer not to add it, your booking goes through normally — you just carry the responsibility for any damage that the car's insurance doesn't cover.
In that case, if damage occurs and the owner confirms it with Sync, we'll reach out to you before any charge — with photos, a cost estimate, and time to ask whatever you need. The process is detailed in the Terms of Use, sections B.4 and B.11.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my own insurance from elsewhere? No. Everything you need (the owner's insurance + the optional Sync protection program) is already included on Sync.
Do you hold a deposit on my card? Not currently. Unlike traditional rent-a-car companies, we don't hold any amount on your card as a deposit. In some cases — depending on the car's value or the booking profile — a deposit may be requested, and you'll be clearly informed before completing your booking (Terms of Use, B.5).
Can I add the protection program later? The protection program is added during booking. You can also change it before your booking starts via the "modify booking" option. If you need help, send us a message.
What if damage is caused by a third party (e.g., someone hits the car in a parking lot)? If there's a police report or details of the responsible party, the damage is covered through the insurance. If it's an "unknown driver" with no details, it's treated the same as any other damage during your booking, so the Sync protection program covers you.
Are my personal belongings inside the car covered? No. Neither the car's insurance nor the Sync protection program covers loss of or damage to personal belongings. Make sure not to leave valuables in the car.
Have questions?
Send a message to the Sync team either through this form, or in the chat Messenger on the bottom right corner. We reply quickly.