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How does the security deposit work when renting a car on TripWip?

How the security deposit works on TripWip: who it applies to, how much is held and when it comes back.

When you rent a car on TripWip, a security deposit is held. It isn't a final charge: it's released when the rental ends, as long as there were no issues while using the vehicle.

Who is it held from?

Everyone. The deposit is held with any payment method —credit or debit card— in Argentina, Uruguay and Mexico.

How much is it?

Country

Sedan or compact

SUV

Luxury

🇦🇷 Argentina

$471,689 ARS
(~380 USD)

$844,075 ARS
(~680 USD)

$1,861,930 ARS
(~1,500 USD)

🇺🇾 Uruguay

300 USD

300 USD

300 USD

🇲🇽 Mexico

7,000 / 5,000 / 3,500 MXN

10,000 / 8,500 / 6,000 MXN

20,000 / 14,000 / 10,000 MXN

In Mexico the amount varies with the insurance plan: Basic, Gold and Platinum. In Argentina and Uruguay it's the same for all three plans.

How it's handled

  • It's automatic. You don't need to do anything: the app places the hold at the start of the rental.

  • The host doesn't handle it. Everything happens inside the platform.

  • It's only used when needed. It can cover what the insurance doesn't during the rental period.

When it's released

TripWip releases the deposit 5 business days after the rental ends. From then on, the refund is processed by the bank that issued your card, so it usually shows up within 5 to 15 business days, depending on the bank.

If there was an incident or a claim is still open, the hold stays in place until the case is resolved, and the 5-day period doesn't start. We'll keep in touch with you until it's closed.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the deposit mandatory?

It's a safety requirement that applies to every user and helps guarantee that the rental is honored. It isn't an extra charge: it's standard practice in the industry.

What happens if there's an incident the insurance doesn't cover?

The deposit can be used to cover those cases. Any other damage is handled under the policies of the insurance plan you chose.

Values verified on September 15, 2026.

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