Cancellation service n°1 in United Kingdom
Sixt Car Subscription offers a flexible alternative to traditional car ownership and leasing in the UK. This service allows you to drive a brand-new vehicle without the long-term commitment of a finance agreement or the hassle of depreciation worries. Unlike conventional car hire, Sixt's subscription model includes insurance, road tax, maintenance, and breakdown cover all bundled into one monthly payment.
The service operates on a rolling monthly basis, giving you the freedom to keep your vehicle for as long as you need it or return it when your circumstances change. You'll receive a nearly-new car from Sixt's fleet, typically with low mileage and the latest safety features. This makes it particularly appealing to people who need temporary transport solutions, such as those relocating for work, waiting for a company car, or simply wanting to test-drive a particular model before committing to purchase.
Most importantly, Sixt Car Subscription differs from traditional rental services because you're getting a dedicated vehicle that's yours for the duration of your subscription. You're not swapping cars every few days, and you can personalise the experience to some extent. The subscription includes comprehensive insurance with a manageable excess, which means you're covered for most eventualities without needing to arrange separate policies.
Keep in mind that whilst the service offers considerable flexibility, it's not entirely commitment-free. Understanding the cancellation terms before you sign up is crucial, as many subscribers discover they need to provide adequate notice when ending their subscription. This is where knowing the proper cancellation procedures becomes essential.
Sixt Car Subscription operates with a straightforward pricing structure that varies depending on the vehicle category you select and your chosen mileage allowance. The service typically offers vehicles ranging from compact city cars to executive saloons and SUVs, with monthly costs reflecting the car's value and running expenses.
The subscription tiers are designed to accommodate different needs and budgets. Entry-level compact cars generally start from around £450-£550 per month, whilst mid-range family vehicles typically cost between £600-£800 monthly. Premium and executive models can range from £900 to over £1,500 per month, depending on specifications and availability.
| Vehicle Category | Typical Models | Monthly Price Range | Standard Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact | VW Polo, Ford Fiesta | £450-£550 | 1,000 miles |
| Medium | VW Golf, Ford Focus | £600-£750 | 1,000 miles |
| Family SUV | Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008 | £700-£900 | 1,000 miles |
| Premium | BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 | £900-£1,200 | 1,000 miles |
| Executive | BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class | £1,200-£1,500+ | 1,000 miles |
Every Sixt Car Subscription package includes comprehensive insurance with an excess typically around £1,000, though this varies by vehicle category. Road tax is covered for the duration of your subscription, and you'll benefit from regular maintenance and servicing arranged by Sixt. Breakdown cover is included, providing peace of mind if mechanical issues arise.
Additionally, you'll receive a nearly-new vehicle with low mileage, usually less than 10,000 miles when you collect it. The standard mileage allowance is typically 1,000 miles per month, though you can purchase additional mileage packages if needed. Excess mileage is charged at rates varying from 10p to 25p per mile, depending on your vehicle category.
First things first: you'll need to pay an initial setup fee when starting your subscription. This typically includes your first month's payment plus a refundable security deposit, which usually equals one month's subscription cost. Some vehicle categories may require a higher deposit, particularly for premium and executive models.
Most importantly, Sixt conducts a credit check before approving your subscription application. You'll need to be aged 25 or over with a full UK driving licence held for at least two years. International licence holders may face additional requirements or restrictions.
Understanding Sixt Car Subscription's cancellation policy is absolutely crucial before you commit to the service. Many subscribers discover too late that the flexibility they expected comes with specific conditions that must be followed precisely to avoid additional charges.
Sixt Car Subscription typically requires a minimum commitment period of one month from your start date. However, the critical detail that catches many people out is the notice period required for cancellation. You must provide at least 30 days' written notice before your intended cancellation date, and this notice period starts from when Sixt receives and processes your cancellation request.
Keep in mind that your notice period doesn't begin until Sixt has formally acknowledged receipt of your cancellation. This is precisely why sending cancellation requests by recorded delivery is so important—you need proof of when they received your letter.
Here's where it gets tricky: your billing cycle and notice period don't necessarily align. If you send your cancellation notice on the 15th of the month but your billing date is the 1st, you'll likely need to pay for an additional full month beyond your current billing cycle. This catches many subscribers off guard and results in paying for an extra month they hadn't budgeted for.
| Scenario | Cancellation Sent | Notice Period Ends | Final Payment Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example 1 | 1st January | 31st January | 1st February |
| Example 2 | 15th January | 14th February | 1st March |
| Example 3 | 28th January | 27th February | 1st March |
When cancelling your subscription, you must return the vehicle in good condition with fair wear and tear accepted. Sixt will inspect the car thoroughly, and you'll be charged for any damage beyond normal use. This includes dents, scratches, interior stains, or excessive wear to tyres and brakes.
Additionally, you must return the vehicle within the mileage allowance or pay excess mileage charges. The fuel tank should be at the same level as when you collected the vehicle, or you'll face refuelling charges. Make sure you've removed all personal belongings and returned all keys, documents, and accessories provided with the car.
Whilst Sixt Car Subscription is marketed as flexible, terminating without proper notice will result in charges. You'll be liable for the full monthly payment for any notice period not properly served. If you return the vehicle before your notice period expires, you'll still pay the monthly fee until the notice period ends.
Most importantly, failing to return the vehicle on the agreed date after your notice period can result in daily charges at a rate significantly higher than your monthly subscription cost when calculated per day. These charges can quickly mount up if you're delayed in returning the vehicle.
Sending your cancellation by post using Recorded Delivery is the most reliable method for terminating your Sixt Car Subscription. This approach provides you with legal proof of delivery, which is absolutely essential if any disputes arise about when Sixt received your cancellation notice.
First and foremost, written cancellation sent by post creates an indisputable paper trail. Under UK consumer law, you have stronger protection when you can prove exactly when a company received your cancellation request. Email can be ignored or claimed to have gone to spam folders, and phone calls leave no concrete evidence unless recorded.
Next, Recorded Delivery provides tracking information and requires a signature upon receipt. This means Sixt cannot claim they never received your cancellation letter. You'll have a reference number and online tracking showing the exact date and time of delivery, plus who signed for it.
Additionally, postal cancellation gives you the opportunity to include all necessary information in one comprehensive document. You can reference your subscription number, vehicle registration, and intended return date clearly, reducing the chance of administrative errors that might delay your cancellation.
Your cancellation letter must contain specific details to be processed efficiently. Start with your full name exactly as it appears on your subscription agreement, followed by your complete address and contact telephone number. Include your subscription account number or reference number prominently at the top of the letter.
Next, clearly state your vehicle registration number and the make and model of your subscribed car. Specify your intended cancellation date, making sure you're allowing for the full 30-day notice period from when Sixt will receive your letter. Request written confirmation of your cancellation and the agreed final date of your subscription.
Keep in mind that you should also mention your preferred method for receiving your deposit refund, including bank account details if you want a direct transfer. Request details about arranging the vehicle return, including the location and any inspection procedures you need to follow.
First, draft your cancellation letter with all the essential information mentioned above. Print it on clean white paper and sign it in ink—electronic signatures aren't advisable for postal submissions. Make at least two photocopies: one for your records and one as a backup.
Next, place your signed original letter in an envelope and address it clearly to Sixt's official cancellation address. Don't use any other address you might find on their website or correspondence—cancellations must go to the specific address designated for subscription terminations.
The correct postal address for Sixt Car Subscription cancellations is:
Most importantly, take your envelope to a Post Office counter and send it via Royal Mail Recorded Delivery. Standard Recorded Delivery costs around £3.35 and provides tracking and proof of delivery. Don't use regular first-class post or any untracked service—the few pounds you save aren't worth the risk if delivery cannot be proven.
Additionally, keep your Recorded Delivery receipt safe and note down the tracking reference number. You can track your letter's progress online through the Royal Mail website. Once delivered, download or screenshot the proof of delivery page showing the signature and delivery date—this is your evidence if disputes arise.
Whilst sending a letter yourself is perfectly viable, services like Postclic can streamline the entire process and save you considerable time. Postclic allows you to submit your cancellation letter digitally, and they handle the printing, enveloping, and posting via tracked delivery on your behalf.
The main advantage is convenience—you don't need to visit a Post Office or worry about having the correct postage. Postclic provides digital proof of postage and delivery, which you can access anytime through their platform. This is particularly useful if you're travelling, working irregular hours, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with professional handling.
Additionally, Postclic formats your letter professionally and ensures all necessary elements are included. This reduces the risk of your cancellation being rejected due to missing information. The service typically costs around £3-£5, which is comparable to handling it yourself when you factor in postage, printing, and your time.
Your letter will typically arrive at Sixt within 1-2 working days when sent via Recorded Delivery. Check your tracking information to confirm delivery, and note the date and time it was signed for. This is when your official notice period begins, not when you posted the letter.
Next, you should receive acknowledgement from Sixt within 5-7 working days of delivery. This might come via email or post, confirming they've received your cancellation and stating your final subscription date. If you haven't heard anything within 10 working days, contact them by phone, referencing your Recorded Delivery tracking number as proof they received your letter.
Keep in mind that Sixt will contact you separately to arrange vehicle return. This usually happens 7-10 days before your cancellation date. They'll provide instructions about where to return the car, what time to arrive, and what to bring with you. Make sure you attend this appointment—missing it can result in additional charges.
Through processing thousands of cancellations, certain patterns emerge in why people end their Sixt Car Subscriptions. The most common reason is financial—subscribers find the monthly cost adds up quickly, especially when they're not using the car as much as anticipated. What seemed affordable initially becomes a burden when other expenses arise.
Additionally, many people cancel because their temporary need has ended. They might have been between cars, waiting for a company vehicle, or needed transport during a relocation. Once their permanent situation is resolved, the subscription becomes unnecessary. Others discover that public transport or occasional car hire is more cost-effective for their actual usage patterns.
Vehicle-related issues also prompt cancellations. Some subscribers receive a car that doesn't meet their expectations, experiences reliability problems, or simply isn't suitable for their needs. Whilst Sixt generally provides well-maintained vehicles, individual experiences vary, and some people decide the hassle isn't worth continuing.
First and foremost, don't assume you can cancel anytime without consequences. The single biggest mistake is not understanding the 30-day notice period requirement. People often think they can simply return the car at the end of their current month, only to discover they owe another full month's payment because they didn't provide proper notice.
Next, never cancel verbally or assume an email is sufficient. Even if customer service staff say they've processed your cancellation over the phone, without written proof sent via tracked post, you have no legal protection. Always follow up verbal or email cancellations with a formal posted letter sent via Recorded Delivery.
Additionally, don't delay sending your cancellation letter. If you're thinking about cancelling, send the letter immediately. You can always continue using the vehicle during your notice period, but you can't backdate a cancellation if you wait too long. The notice period only starts when Sixt receives your letter, not when you decided you wanted to cancel.
Most importantly, never return the vehicle before your notice period expires without explicit written agreement from Sixt. Some subscribers think returning the car early will stop their payments, but you'll continue being charged until your notice period ends, even if you no longer have the vehicle.
During your notice period, document everything about the vehicle's condition. Take comprehensive photographs of the exterior from all angles, including close-ups of any existing marks or damage. Photograph the interior, focusing on seats, carpets, and any areas prone to wear. Make sure your photos are dated—most smartphones include this automatically.
Keep your final month's mileage under control. If you're close to your allowance limit, consider using alternative transport for the last few weeks to avoid excess mileage charges. These charges are deducted from your deposit, reducing what you get back.
Next, have the car professionally cleaned before return. Whilst you're not expected to return it valeted, a clean car makes a better impression during inspection and reduces the chance of cleaning charges. Pay particular attention to removing any stains, pet hair, or odours that might be considered beyond fair wear and tear.
Sixt typically processes deposit refunds within 14-28 days of vehicle return, provided no damage charges or outstanding fees apply. However, this timeline depends on them completing their inspection and confirming no issues exist. You can speed this up by ensuring the car is in excellent condition and all paperwork is completed correctly during return.
Additionally, make sure your bank details on file are current and correct. If Sixt has outdated information, your refund might be delayed or sent to the wrong account. Confirm these details when you send your cancellation letter, and again when you return the vehicle.
Keep in mind that any outstanding charges will be deducted from your deposit before refund. This includes excess mileage, damage repairs, missing items, or late return fees. Request an itemised breakdown if charges are deducted so you can verify they're legitimate.
If Sixt claims they never received your cancellation letter, immediately provide your Recorded Delivery tracking information showing delivery date, time, and signature. This is legally binding proof, and they must honour the cancellation from that date. Screenshot or print this tracking information and send it to them via email and post.
Most importantly, if you're being charged beyond your notice period or for damage you dispute, respond in writing immediately. Reference your cancellation letter date, tracking number, and any photographic evidence you have. Send this via Recorded Delivery again, creating another paper trail.
For unresolved disputes, you can escalate to Sixt's formal complaints procedure, which should be detailed on their website or in your subscription terms. If this doesn't resolve matters, consider contacting the Financial Ombudsman Service or seeking advice from Citizens Advice. Your Recorded Delivery proof and comprehensive documentation will be invaluable in any dispute resolution process.
Remember that staying calm and professional in all communications yields better results than angry confrontations. Document every interaction, keep copies of all correspondence, and maintain your paper trail meticulously. These simple practices protect your rights and ensure you can prove your case if problems arise with your Sixt Car Subscription cancellation.