Budget Rent A Car

I called the 800 number and was told that I could walk in and rent a car for $ 60 a day. When I walked in the next day all of a sudden they quoted $ 145.00 to rent the car. I found out later that you need a reservation for the lesser price, but the representative on the phone never said so. So I accepted and the desk person was very lovely and helpful to do the paperwork and get us out the door. There is a choice to pay the tolls and have the automatic pass turned off so that is what we did since I paid the rental car and someone else in my party was paying for the tolls. Also if we filled the gas before we returned the car it would cost less than having Budget fill the tank. The night clerk had trouble checking us back in and told us to verify in the morning. When I called the next morning they had charged us for gas even though we brought it back filled up. I was able to get that charge reversed over the phone. My credit card bill came in with a $ 154.00 charge. Then, the next month credit card statement had an additional bill for tolls. This was billed two weeks after the first bill. When I called the 800 number to tell them that we had paid the tolls in person with cash and I would like the additional charge reversed — the only way to do that is if I provide my cash receipts. If we don’t find them — our fault for not keeping track, but did not realize that I would be billed separately a few weeks later. Also, some of the toll booths don’t have a person there so you don’t get a receipt. Again, the person who helped us at the desk was very nice, personable and helpful and we were really happy with her service. But the way that Budget Rent a Car customer service on the phone left out pertinent information to get more money out of us regarding the price increase from phone call to walk in, the way I was initially charged for gas when the car was filled, and how we have a double payment of tolls unless we jump through more hoops makes me feel very taken advantage of.

Waited 2 hours for the car I «reserved.» When I called customer service, was told I had two options: continue to wait in line or leave. I told the rep I’d try zipcar next time… The rep responded that budget just bought zipcar. I strongly advise against using either.