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car rental

Hi, I've been getting mixed messages ( and mixed reviews of course) about car rental in San Diego. I've heard there have been issues with Hertz post covid, I've had a bad experience with Dollar in Hawaii - so.... A) which rental firms do you recommend? B) which have on site at the airport ....btw which is Lindbergh airport, that's where hertz is? What is the safest option.......Avis? Thanks

San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field) has a well-established car rental system, but it’s important to choose a reliable company given your past experiences. Post-COVID, some companies have had staffing and fleet shortages, which can affect service and vehicle availability. Safety and convenience are key, especially if you plan to drive around the city and nearby destinations.

On-site rental at Lindbergh Airport is convenient because you can skip shuttles and long waits. Several major rental companies operate directly at the terminal or in the rental car center, which is just a short walk or tram ride from the airport.

Recommended car rental companies with generally good reputations and on-site airport presence include:

  • Avis: Well-known for reliable service, consistent fleet maintenance, and professional staff. Avis is on-site at Lindbergh, so pickup and return are straightforward.
  • Enterprise: Excellent customer service and a strong reputation for quality. Enterprise operates in the rental car center and is a safe choice for first-time renters or those wary of issues with other companies.
  • Budget: Budget is part of the same network as Avis and Enterprise, offering similar convenience at often lower rates. On-site presence at the airport makes it a practical choice.
  • National Car Rental: Often praised for quick pickup and loyalty program perks. Located in the rental car center, it’s convenient and dependable.

Companies with a higher risk of service inconsistencies recently include Hertz and Dollar, mostly due to staffing shortages and maintenance delays post-pandemic. If you’ve had negative experiences with Dollar before, it’s reasonable to avoid them in San Diego.

Tips for a smooth rental experience at San Diego:

  • Book in advance to ensure availability of your preferred vehicle type.
  • Check the airport location carefully; Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and National are all in the consolidated rental car center accessible via a tram or walk.
  • Inspect the car carefully for damage before leaving the lot, and make sure the insurance coverage fits your needs.
  • Consider loyalty programs (e.g., Avis Preferred, Enterprise Plus) for faster pickup and added peace of mind.

In conclusion, Avis or Enterprise are likely the safest and most convenient choices for San Diego. Both have on-site pickup at Lindbergh, solid customer service, and reliable fleets. Budget or National are also good alternatives if you’re looking for comparable service with potentially lower rates.

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