How is it possible for dollar rent a car company to offer rentals half the price or more than its compeditors? Are there cars old? Do they have more fees? There must be some kind of catch? I will be vacationing in California for 10 days and need a full size rental car. Dollar rental rate is $149 for 10 days but every other company like Avis and Enterprise are charging $400-$450 for 10 days. Should I go for the cheaper company?

 

Look at the fine print. See exactly what Dollar offers for that rate and compare it with what Avis and Enterprise offer for their rates. Perhaps Avis and Enterprise offer unlimited miles for their week-plus rates but you have to pay for each mile you put on the Dollar rental car?

 

The problem is when I reserve the car online there are no fine print anywhere to read. I am afraid that when I do get to the Dollar rental counter that day then there would be fine print to read and by then its really to late.

 

Also realize that sometimes companies are running specials for holiday weeks, etc that other companies aren't offering.

 

Their software must be telling that not enough cars are booked so they have to offer a sale. They rather rent it then have it sitting.

If you are worried, make a reservation with one of the others in case, you have an issue when you pick up the car. but I doubt you will at all.

Book it and worry about it later.

 

I'd call their main or national number and speak to a representative about your concern. You should ask the specifics like you are wondering here and ensure there are no hidden surprises. Also, often, certain agencies hold onto cars longer, so they have higher miles and are in poorer condition. This could be a factor in the pricing (or not).

 

When I booked online with dollar, they gave me a total amount at the end.
It helps that I'm with AAA.
When it was all said and done, there were no hidden or extra fees (as shown).

Yes, they were 50% cheaper than the other guys.

 

Because they bait and switch their cars. They say "Similar to a Dodge Avenger", which is a mid sized car, then give a Hyundai Elantra, or smaller.

 

Are you comparing cars of the same class? Dollars Rental cars might offer the sub-campact cars vs Intermediate cars from other rental companies. I have rented cars with Dollars (via Costco travel) and have no issues. I also used my company's corporate and it is probably the cheapest rate anywhere of $19/day. Your quote seems a little low for 10 days rental. Just contact them to make sure you know what all the terms are. Like other have said, sometime they have special discounts that lower the price significantly.
Have a safe trip and enjoy the great state of California.

 

Thanks everyone for you help regarding my question. Happy 4th of July for those in the USA.