To maximize your holiday earnings, you need more than just the right car; you need a listing that passes every guest's (and Turo's) winter "trust test."
Since Feb. 26, 2025, Turo has implemented a stricter Vehicle Quality Rating system. Your car must maintain a five-star maintenance rating on at least 30% of your last 10 trips, or it faces automatic delisting.
For the high-stakes holiday season, where a single cancellation can cost you $500+, staying compliant is your top priority.
The 2025 Winter Safety Checklist
Before the Thanksgiving rush, go through this list to make sure your vehicle meets the latest platform standards.
- Tires: Must have at least 4/32” (3.2mm) tread depth and be less than 6 years old. If you list "Snow Tires," they must have the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.
- Battery: Should be 5 years old or newer. If it is older, it must pass a 12.1v test with a multimeter during your inspection.
- Brakes: Brake pads and shoes must be at least 3mm thick.
- Fluid Check: Top off your windshield wiper fluid with a -20°F (or lower) rated winter blend and inspect wiper blades for streaks.
- Heating: Both the cabin heater and the defrost systems must be fully operational (standard for all 2025 listings).
Protecting Your "Five-Star" Maintenance Rating
Under the new 2025 rules, if your maintenance rating drops too low, you have to pass an in-person safety inspection by an ASE-certified mechanic to get back online.
To avoid this, pay close attention to your "Safety & Inspections" tab in the host hub. Guests who leave less than five stars for maintenance are now required to specify the issue (e.g., "brakes squeaking" or "low tire tread"). Addressing these complaints immediately—and documenting the fix—is the only way to protect your account during the heavy winter wear-and-tear.
Marketing Your "Winter-Ready" Status
The most successful holiday hosts don't just have safe cars; they advertise them. Use your listing description to mention specific winter perks that guests are searching for right now:
- "Winterized" Badging: Clearly state that the car has been inspected for the season.
- Snow Tires vs. All-Seasons: Be honest. If you have All-Season tires, don't check the "Snow Tires" box, or Turo may charge you a misrepresentation fee. Instead, describe them as "high-tread All-Seasons perfect for cleared city roads."
- Emergency Kit: Mention if you include a snow brush, ice scraper, or emergency blanket in the trunk. These small touches often lead to the five-star maintenance reviews you need to stay active.