New ‘Life’ Limit for Rental Cars in Greece Causes Stir

Car rental companies across Greece are up in arms following a recent decision to extend the “life” of rental vehicles.

Under the provision which came into effect on December 16, 2015, the legal “life span” for a rental vehicle has been increased to 12 years from the previous seven or nine — depending on engine capacity.

The Greek Car Rental Companies Association (STEEA) is expressing its objection to the recent amendment, claiming that vehicles that have been in operation for over seven years are already in need of change due to the increased mileage and extended use.

STEEA underlines that many car rental companies are already violating the law, maintaining a fleet of cars which exceeds the nine-year limit. The new provision, they claim, would just lead to more violations.

STEEA also stresses that this would in effect go against efforts of the sector to upgrade the Greek tourist product.