Rental Car Rip Off

Geico266 · #1 02-10-2011, 09:12 AM

I hate being ripped off. I don't mind paying a reasonable rate, just don't rip me off.

Twice now I reserved a car from Enterprise only to find the the price had drastically changed when I look at the contract before I took the car. Seems the negotiations begin when they hand you the keys.

Another bit of advice they told me was do not order the car from the FBO. That "code" 8# 9" of the highest rates. After trying to drop the car off my rate was dropped from $68/day to $32/day, 7 days, same car, including all taxes.

Make sure your quotes include all taxes. They can range from 5 to 40%!

Hopefully, a more seasoned car renter / VAF member can shead some light on how to get ground transportation deals.

n504tw · #2 02-10-2011, 09:26 AM

I've had several rental counter workers comment that I had a rate that they couldn't get as employees of the company. Don't know if it's BS or not, but I've stuck with Travelocity.

Mel · #3 02-10-2011, 09:46 AM

That's interesting. We always try to use Enterprise. We've always had fair pricing and service. We do use AARP rates.

Geico266 · #4 02-10-2011, 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mel

That's interesting. We always try to use Enterprise. We've always had fair pricing and service. We do use AARP rates.

I should have added this in the Phoenix area only. I have used Enterprise for years before this.

I used Expedia.com, but used the FBO pick up option. This will get you a higher rate according to the counter person.

664781 · #5 02-10-2011, 09:50 AM

Larry,
Go directly to the rental car web site and reserve there. I have found the best deals with them and Travelocity.

777Dave · #6 02-10-2011, 11:01 AM

Hotwire.com is great. Compares rates and gives youu the best.

ArVeeNiner · #7 02-10-2011, 11:35 AM

I use CarRentals.com pretty often and they give you a total with all estimated taxes too. I've found that to be pretty accurate with no surprises.

mrreddick · #8 02-10-2011, 11:40 AM

Had to go to a funeral in Tyler, TX. Call ahead and booked a car. When we arrived they said all of that class had been rented so they gave us a step up. I was happy until I received the bill (Tyler Jet only delivers the car and has you sign the original contract). That larger car cost us double and after writing Enterprise, we got nothing in return.
If at all possible I use anything BUT Enterprise.

bkthomps · #9 02-10-2011, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrreddick

Had to go to a funeral in Tyler, TX. Call ahead and booked a car. When we arrived they said all of that class had been rented so they gave us a step up. I was happy until I received the bill (Tyler Jet only delivers the car and has you sign the original contract). That larger car cost us double and after writing Enterprise, we got nothing in return.
If at all possible I use anything BUT Enterprise.

that's a seinfeld episode by the way....how do you run out when you have a reservation? etc

happens all the time

Chino Tom · #10 02-10-2011, 11:48 AM

Most of the increases come from agreeing to increased insurance
coverage. Check with your auto insurance company to find out
if they cover rental cars. If they do, you don't need to add
additional coverage. Every rental company tries to entice you
to add coverages. "For 20/day, you can just hand us the keys if
you get in an accident". All very tempting and expensive for week
long rentals. I always use Enterprise when I can and have for many
years (disclosure: They hired my son last year after he graduated
from college....I'm eternally grateful!)