Refund & Return Policy

At Absolute Rent-A-Car, we believe in transparency and honesty with every customer. Our goal is to make sure you understand exactly how our refund and return process works before you sign or take possession of your vehicle.

1. Our Programs

We specialize in long-term Rent-to-Own and Lease-to-Own vehicles. We do not offer short-term or daily rentals.

2. Down Payments

• Down payments start at $1,500, depending on your vehicle choice.
• You may also qualify to start with $500 plus your first payment, with a deferred balance of up to $1,000.
• Once your lease agreement is signed or the vehicle has been prepared, detailed, or reserved, the down payment becomes non-refundable.
• If you cancel before signing any paperwork and before a vehicle has been prepared or assigned, you will receive a full refund.
• Important: Illinois law does not provide a general three-day “cooling-off” period for dealership sales or leases. Our 24-hour courtesy cancellation applies only before you take possession.

3. Security Deposits

• A refundable security deposit of $250–$1,000 is required. It can be paid after your deferred balance is completed.
• Your deposit is refunded immediately upon return if the vehicle is:
  • Clean and undamaged
  • All mileage overages, tolls, and tickets are paid
  • The key is returned in good condition
• If you decide to purchase your vehicle, your deposit will be applied toward your final price.
• If any portion of your deposit is withheld, we will provide an itemized statement explaining the deductions.
• To dispute a deduction, please email sales@absoluterentacar.com within 10 business days and include any supporting documentation or photos.

4. Cancellations

• You may cancel and receive a full refund within 24 hours of signing, as long as you have not taken possession of the vehicle.
• Once you take delivery, all payments are non-refundable.
• Early-termination options and remaining balance details are explained in your signed lease and Illinois law. Please contact us if you need a payoff or early-termination quote.

5. Add-Ons and Insurance

• If you purchased Collateral Protection Insurance (CPI), any unearned premium will be refunded or credited to your account as required by Illinois law.
• If your personal insurance coverage lapses, we may secure replacement coverage and charge the cost as permitted by law.
• Other services (such as registration or inspection fees) are non-refundable once started.

6. Common Charges

Typical charges that may apply after return include:

• Lost key or fob replacement
• Excessive cleaning or smoke removal
• Missing or damaged equipment (jack, spare tire, etc.)
• Rim, glass, or tire damage
• Mileage overages
• Unpaid tolls or tickets (plus the administrative fee disclosed in your lease)

7. Refund Method & Timing

• Approved refunds are issued to the original form of payment within 7–10 business days after approval.
• Cash payments are refunded by company check or ACH, not in cash.
• Banks or card issuers may take additional time to post credits.

8. Dispute Process

We ask customers to contact Absolute Rent-A-Car first to resolve any refund or return concerns before filing a card dispute. We review and respond to all inquiries within 10 business days.

9. Legal Notice

This policy summarizes our refund and return process. Your signed lease controls if there is a conflict. All disclosures are provided under the Illinois Motor Vehicle Leasing Act and the federal Consumer Leasing Act (Regulation M).

Contact Us

Absolute Rent-A-Car
353 Willard Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120
Phone: 847-888-9100
Email: sales@absoluterentacar.com