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TRAVEL GUIDES
Car Rental Deposit in Malaysia: How Much, Credit vs Debit Card, and When You Get It Back
The deposit is the number one thing that surprises customers at the rental counter. Some arrive without a credit card, some bring a card in someone else’s name, and some don’t know when their money comes back. Here’s exactly how deposits work at SEIYON, so there are no surprises when you land.
Why Car Rental Companies Take a Deposit
A deposit covers costs that may come up after you return the car, such as fuel, damage, tolls or traffic summonses. Every rental company in Malaysia takes one. The difference is how they take it and how fast you get it back.
Credit Card: The Easiest Option
- Deposit: RM1,000
- It is held on your card as an authorisation, not charged
- The money never leaves your account, it is only reserved
- Released in full when you return the car in good condition
- Use Visa or Mastercard to avoid the bank surcharge
Debit Card: Possible, but Different
Debit cards may be accepted as a goodwill exception. Because a debit card can’t hold an authorisation like a credit card, the deposit works differently:
- The deposit is charged, not held
- It is kept for 30 days after the rental, until any traffic summonses have cleared
- A 3% to 5% bank surcharge applies and is paid by the customer
If you can, bring a credit card. It’s faster and costs you nothing.
The Card Must Be in the Driver’s Name
The deposit card must belong to the lead driver. We can’t accept a card belonging to a friend, family member or company if they are not the driver. This protects you and the card owner.
Which Cards Have a Surcharge?
- Visa and Mastercard credit cards: no surcharge
- Amex, UnionPay and debit cards: 3% bank surcharge
When Do I Get My Deposit Back?
- Credit card: the hold is released when you return the car. Your bank may take a few working days to show it as available again.
- Debit card: refunded after 30 days, once any traffic summonses have cleared.
Tips to Avoid Problems
- Bring a credit card in the lead driver’s name
- Make sure the card has enough available limit for the deposit plus your rental
- Tell your bank you’re travelling so the transaction isn’t blocked
- Return the car with a full tank and check it together with our staff
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit at SEIYON?
RM1,000 on a credit card, held as an authorisation and released in full when you return the car.
Can I use a debit card?
Debit cards may be accepted as an exception. The deposit is charged and refunded 30 days after the rental, and a bank surcharge applies.
Can I use my friend’s or spouse’s credit card?
No. The card must be in the lead driver’s name.
Why hasn’t my deposit come back yet?
For credit cards, the release is immediate on our side, but some banks take a few working days to update your available balance.
Book Your Car at KLIA
Pick up your car at KLIA Terminal 1 or klia2 and explore Peninsular Malaysia at your own pace.