Getaround Reviews & Consumer Reports: Is It Worth It?

Nov 13, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered about Getaround? Maybe you've seen the ads, or a friend has mentioned it. Well, if you're looking for an alternative to traditional car rentals, or even thinking about making some extra cash by renting out your own ride, you're probably asking yourself, "Is Getaround legit?" and "What do people really think about it?" Let's dive deep into the world of Getaround, explore the consumer reports, and see if it's a good fit for you. We'll be looking at everything from the overall experience to the nitty-gritty details, so you can make an informed decision. Buckle up, it's going to be a fun ride!

Getaround: An Overview

Getaround is a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform, operating in several major cities and metropolitan areas. Think of it like Airbnb, but for cars. Car owners list their vehicles, set their prices and availability, and then renters can book them directly through the Getaround app or website. It's designed to be a convenient and flexible alternative to traditional car rental companies. This can be great if you only need a car for a few hours or a day, and it offers a potentially wider variety of vehicles than you might find at a typical rental agency. Getaround handles the insurance, and the platform facilitates the entire booking and unlocking process, often using a technology called "Getaround Connect" which allows renters to unlock the car directly through the app. The appeal is definitely there - easy access to cars, potentially lower prices, and a more diverse selection of vehicles than what you'd find at a typical rental agency. However, like any service, Getaround has its pros and cons. Understanding both sides of the coin is key to seeing if it's the right choice for you.

The basic premise is straightforward. Car owners can offset the costs of ownership by renting out their vehicles when they're not in use. This can be an attractive option for people who don't use their cars every day. Meanwhile, renters gain access to cars without the hassle and expense of owning one. This makes it an especially appealing choice for city dwellers and those who only need a car on occasion. The platform prides itself on ease of use. The Getaround app is designed to streamline the entire process, from browsing available cars to unlocking and returning them. The platform also promises a seamless experience. They handle the insurance, the payment processing, and even offer 24/7 customer support. That all sounds pretty good, right? Well, let's explore what the actual users are saying to get a clear picture.

Now, let's talk about the competition. Traditional car rental companies, like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, have been around for a long time. They offer a certain level of reliability and consistency. But they can also be more expensive, especially if you only need a car for a short period. Getaround positions itself as a more flexible and often cheaper alternative, particularly for short-term rentals. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option. They are great for getting around without owning or renting a car, but they are not always ideal if you need a vehicle for a longer duration. Getaround falls into a space that provides some of the benefits of both traditional car rentals and ride-sharing, but let's see how well it delivers on its promises. Keep reading, we will cover all details you need to know.

What Consumer Reports Say About Getaround

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and see what consumers are actually saying about Getaround. You will want to know about the real-world experiences of Getaround users. What are the common complaints? What are the praises? What are the key takeaways? We will try to cover everything.

Reviews are a mixed bag, and it's essential to consider the source and the date of the reviews. Consumer Reports are a great place to start, as they often conduct thorough investigations and provide unbiased assessments. However, it's also valuable to check reviews from various sources, including the App Store, Google Play Store, and review websites like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau. These platforms give you a wider view of what people are experiencing, and a sense of the good and bad aspects of Getaround. Overall, it seems that the Getaround experience can vary significantly, depending on factors such as location, the car owner, and the specific car you rent. Some users report smooth and positive experiences, praising the convenience and ease of use. Other users, unfortunately, have reported issues like poor customer service, car quality, and unexpected fees.

Here are some of the frequently mentioned pros: the flexibility of the platform, the competitive pricing (especially for short-term rentals), the convenience of the app, and the wide selection of available cars. The ability to book a car for an hour or two instead of a full day can be a major advantage. Furthermore, the selection of cars, which often includes electric vehicles, is much wider than what you'd typically find at a rental company. It makes Getaround an appealing option for various needs.

Now, let's explore some of the cons that frequently surface in reviews. One of the biggest complaints revolves around customer service. Users often report difficulties getting timely responses to their issues. Another common complaint relates to the condition of the cars. While many cars are well-maintained, some users report issues with cleanliness, mechanical problems, and discrepancies between the listing and the actual car. Hidden fees and unexpected charges can also catch renters by surprise. Make sure you read the fine print before booking! Always check the car's location carefully. You may encounter issues if the car is located far from your desired pickup location. Remember, your experience might differ. The key is to be prepared, do your research, and manage your expectations.

Getaround's Key Features & Functionality

Let's get into the specifics of Getaround's features and how they work. Understanding these aspects will help you determine if the platform aligns with your needs and expectations. We will be checking out everything, from the booking process to the insurance coverage.

The Getaround app is the heart of the platform. It's the primary tool for browsing cars, making reservations, unlocking vehicles, and managing your rental. The app usually has a user-friendly interface. It allows you to search for cars by location, dates, and times. Filters allow you to narrow down your options based on car type, price, and features. The app also has integrated mapping, so you can easily see the location of the available cars. You can usually view photos and read descriptions provided by the car owners. Once you've selected a car, you can make a reservation directly through the app. Getaround Connect, a key feature, allows renters to unlock the car directly through the app, eliminating the need for in-person key exchanges. This feature is not available for every car, so keep an eye out for it when booking. The app also handles communication with the car owner. You can contact them directly through the app if you have questions or concerns. The app is also used to report any issues with the car or during your rental period.

Booking and Unlocking Process. The booking process is usually straightforward. You choose your dates and times, select your car, and provide the necessary information. Getaround verifies your identity and processes the payment. The process is usually quick and simple. If the car has Getaround Connect, you can unlock it directly through the app. If not, you'll need to coordinate with the owner to pick up the keys. You'll typically be provided with a code for a key box. Or, you'll make arrangements to meet the owner. Remember to carefully inspect the car before you drive away. Take photos to document its condition and report any existing damage to the owner and Getaround. At the end of your rental period, you simply return the car to its designated location and lock it. Always remember to check for any personal items before you leave the car.

Insurance and Protection. Getaround provides insurance coverage for all rentals. This coverage usually includes liability and physical damage protection. It's essential to understand the terms of the insurance policy, which are detailed in the Getaround website or app. Check the coverage limits, the deductible, and what is and isn't covered. Getaround also offers protection plans that provide additional coverage for things like roadside assistance and damage. Before booking, check out the various protection plans. This will provide you with extra peace of mind. Getaround also has a verification process for both renters and car owners, which includes identity verification and background checks. This helps to ensure safety and security. However, it's still essential to take your own precautions, such as inspecting the car and reporting any issues.

Getaround: The Pros and Cons

Let's do a quick recap of the main points, weighing the good versus the bad. This will help you see if this platform is worth your time and money.

Pros:

Convenience: Easy to book and unlock cars, often with the Getaround Connect feature.
Variety: Wide selection of cars, including unique and electric vehicles.
Flexibility: Short-term rentals are available, allowing for flexibility.
Potentially Lower Prices: Can be cheaper than traditional rentals, especially for short periods.

Cons:

Customer Service Issues: Some users report slow or unhelpful customer service.
Car Condition: Car quality can vary significantly, with some cars being poorly maintained.
Hidden Fees: Unexpected charges can arise, so read the fine print carefully.
Inconsistent Experiences: Experiences can vary depending on the car owner and location.

When considering Getaround, think about your specific needs and priorities. If you value flexibility, a diverse selection of vehicles, and potentially lower prices, then Getaround might be a great option for you. If you prioritize reliability, consistent quality, and responsive customer service, you might want to consider traditional car rental companies. Or, if you need a car for a short trip, a ride-sharing service might be a great option. Consider what's most important to you.

How Getaround Compares to Competitors

Let's see how Getaround stacks up against the competition. We'll be looking at the key differences between Getaround and other platforms, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Getaround vs. Traditional Car Rental Companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise):

Price: Getaround can be cheaper, especially for short-term rentals. Traditional companies usually have higher base rates.
Selection: Getaround offers a wider variety of cars, including unique and electric vehicles. Traditional companies usually have a more limited selection.
Convenience: Getaround offers the convenience of the Getaround Connect system, allowing for direct car unlocking. Traditional companies often have a more complex pickup and drop-off process.
Customer Service: Getaround customer service can be inconsistent. Traditional companies usually have more established customer service departments.

Getaround vs. Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Lyft):

Function: Ride-sharing services are best for getting around without needing to drive. Getaround gives you access to a car to drive yourself.
Price: Ride-sharing can be more cost-effective for short distances. Getaround is typically better for longer trips or when you need a car for an extended period.
Availability: Ride-sharing availability can be subject to demand. Getaround offers more flexibility.
Convenience: Ride-sharing requires no advance planning. Getaround requires booking in advance.

Getaround vs. Turo:

Similarities: Both are peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms, operating in a similar way.
Differences: They are similar in many ways, but the user experience might differ slightly depending on the specific features and policies. Read reviews for both platforms to determine which one is right for you.

Is Getaround Right for You?

So, is Getaround right for you? It really depends on your needs, your priorities, and how willing you are to accept the potential risks. If you want a flexible, potentially cheaper option for short-term rentals and don't mind the possibility of minor inconveniences, then it might be a great fit. If you value a more consistent experience and reliable customer service, you might prefer a traditional rental company. You can try the platform to see if it is a good fit.

To make an informed decision, you should:

Read Reviews: Look at both positive and negative reviews from a variety of sources.
Check the Cars: Review the car listings and details before booking.
Understand the Insurance: Make sure you fully understand the insurance coverage.
Consider the Location: Think about how easy it will be to pick up and drop off the car.
Manage Expectations: Be prepared for potential issues and have a backup plan.

By carefully weighing the pros and cons and doing your research, you can make the decision that's right for you. Happy driving, guys!