Rental Car Prices

Due to an accident I rented an automobile for the duration of one week. This rental was covered through my insurance company and did not include the optional damage waiver. (I opted for that at my own expence of $90) So out the door for the rental the weekly rate was $479 plus fuel needed for my use. The expense broke down as follows:

RENTAL: -349

DAMAGE WAIVER: - 90

TAXES & SURCHARGE: - 40

-TOTAL- -479

For the most part the rental was alright... The car was a new car in great running condition and up to date on all servicing and maintenance. The staff at the facility was knowledgeable and quick in making the arrangements with the insurance company, not to mention very pleasant as well. Throughout the rental experience I only found two areas that could be improved upon... (1) The choices of automobiles available was few... I believe I only had three to choose from. (2) The car I did finally choose was not as clean as I would have liked both on the inside and outside. I had to clean the car myself after leaving the rental office.

Bottom line is with the exception of the two areas for improvement the service was a value for the price paid "out the door".

Only a few tips...

(1) If at all possible make the rental reservations at least a week in advance to allow more choices of the vehicle type.

(2) Even though it seems costly when renting be sure to choose the DAMAGE WAIVER. If something were to happen to the vehicle and you have the "D.W." your insurance will not be charged nor will you.

(3) Finally, with gas prices high, be sure to return the vehicle with the same amount of fuel as you received upon renting. The surcharge for fuel is significantly greater than going to the pump and filling up yourself.