Auto Rental: Dollar vs. Thrifty
 

I can get a good rate from either of these companies, picking the car up at SFO and dropping it off a week later in down town San Francisco. Is one of these companies more reliable or better than the other in some other way?

We've used them both and think they're pretty much the same.

I've used Dollar a lot and never had a problem. I haven't used Thrifty though.

I've found them to be pretty interchangeable, and usually go by the best price. Would one of the downtown SF locations be more convenient for you than the other?

I would also suggest you sign up for their loyalty programs if you haven't already done so, since that can usually get you out faster.

Thanks everybody.

I'm going with Dollar--they are a little cheaper, they have on-line "Rapid Check-In," and they sent me an e-mail telling me I'm "ready to go."

Judy24: They both have offices at the same downtown location, which is two blocks from my hotel.

HTTY

they are owned by the same company so not too much difference HOWEVER DO MAKE SURE you go around the car when you pick it up before you sign the form that says there is no damage. We used to rent form Dollar and Thrifty at SFO and downtown all the time,. and our experience is that they ask you to sign off on the no damage form before you inspect the car. We now walk around the car and make sure every little scratch is noted before we drive off.

I have used both and agree they are basically the same. I think you made the wise choice by going with price. Cost and convenience of location are the big factors for me between the two.

Look on Hotwire and see if you can do any better. I don't think there's a nickel's worth of difference in any of the rental companies.

Are you the only driver? We usually pick depending on which company gives us an extra driver for free. Some of them really add on the $$$ if both DH and I want to be listed as drivers.

We used Dollar and are completely satisfied--a Ford Precision for one week picked up at SFO and dropped off at downtown SF came to $350 including tax.

Thanks, HTTY