Company car for private use too: can the employer simply take it away?
A company car that you are allowed to drive privately too is more than a work tool: the private use is a monetary benefit and therefore part of your remuneration. Accordingly, the employer may not take it away again at will.
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What you should do now
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1. Check the agreement
How is the private use regulated? Is there a valid revocation or withdrawal reservation?
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2. Check the reason for withdrawal
Is there a recognized reason (for example a release from work), or is the withdrawal without grounds?
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3. Object in writing
In the event of an unjustified withdrawal, object in writing and demand continued use or compensation.
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4. Advice
In a dispute, the works council, a union or an employment-law advisor can help.
Frequently asked questions
May the employer take my company car away?
They can control the business use within their right to give instructions. But the permitted private use is a monetary benefit and part of your pay; it can only be withdrawn if this is validly reserved by contract or a recognized reason exists (for example a valid release from work). A withdrawal without grounds is impermissible.
What can I do if the private use is taken from me without justification?
Object in writing and demand continued use. If the monetary benefit is withdrawn from you wrongfully, there can be a claim to loss-of-use compensation or damages. In an ongoing dispute, the works council, a union or an employment-law advisor supports you.
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.