National Car Rental

Reviews

• KH

  Kevin Healey

  2 days ago
  2.0
  I had a reservation as an Emerald member. I checked out the car for out first vacation in many years in San Diego. I found out the next day that I was charged $800 for the six days of rental…. about $350 more than what was was quoted. I had the situation “escalated” over the phone, but I never received a call back from management. On top of all this, the car smelled like cigarettes after parking it in the sun. I like National, but this one really stuck it to me, and refused to call to mitigate it. Our vacation budget took a major hit.
• LM

  L MB

  5 days ago
  5.0
  National Car Rental saved our vacation—no joke. They truly stepped up and saved the day when another rental car company failed us. Our flight to San Diego was delayed by a couple of hours, and we were told that Dollar Rental Car would stay open because they had our flight information. We even confirmed over the phone that they would remain open for our arrival. When we finally got to the rental car center, Dollar had closed up shop, turned off the lights, and left us there with no car. We saw a green light coming from the National Car Rental office and decided to walk over to see if there was any chance we could at least get a car for the night. When we approached the National desk, the employee was extremely kind and patient, especially considering it was nearly 1:00 in the morning. They immediately assured us that we would be able to secure a vehicle, and the price was very reasonable given that we were booking right there at the desk at the last minute. This employee was also incredibly efficient. There were about 10 reservations ahead of us, and they moved through everyone in what felt like only 5–10 minutes while still handling each customer’s situation with care. Initially, we rented a car from National for just one day so we could return to the rental center the next day and pick up our original Dollar reservation. However, when we went upstairs to get our National vehicle, we saw a really nice larger SUV that would be perfect for our surfboards. We asked the employee at the checkout station if there was any way we could get that vehicle, explaining that our other rental company had left us stranded. They said, “Let me check,” and within about 20 minutes, we had decided to do our entire week-long rental with National instead. We received a really nice upgraded large SUV that easily held our surfboards for our surf trip, and the overall rate ended up being equivalent to what we were originally going to pay with Dollar. In this situation, National Car Rental provided incredible service, a great vehicle, and an excellent rate. On top of all of that, when we returned the vehicle, there was some confusion regarding our deposit amount. The manager at the rental return booth was extremely kind and understanding and helped resolve the issue by refunding the deposit to us. I remember her name was Sarah, and she was incredible. It is so rare to experience this level of customer service, especially when you show up at the last minute as complete strangers who originally had a reservation with a competing rental company. I am sold on National. I hope National is this great across the board at all of its locations, but I can say for sure that the team at San Diego International Airport is unlike any rental car team I have ever dealt with—and I have traveled the world for business for the past 10 years. Thank you, National Car Rental, for saving our vacation!
• BT

  Brad Thompson

  Aug 27, 2026
  5.0
  Very easy and fast process. Go directly to the Emerald Aisle’s of your preferred rental. Pick your vehicle and head out. Upon returning your vehicle an even easier process. Arrive back to the lot on the return side and you are greeted by a National Representative. Scan your car and send you on your way. I appreciate that there are representatives there for pick up and return for any questions if any arise.
• JB

  Jason Bacher

  Aug 22, 2026
  5.0
  This is based on my experience with National Car Rental at San Diego International Airport. I have Executive status, so my process was very fast and convenient upon arrival: went to the Executive Aisle, grabbed a car, and took off. Several days later, I returned to the SAN rental car facility and, once again, had a very quick experience dropping off the car. I've used this facility many times, and the staff is consistently courteous and efficient. They know that you are in a hurry to catch the shuttle to catch your flight, so, they quickly guide you into the correct lane, greet you, and get you on your way.
• MD

  Michael Dib

  Aug 22, 2026
  1.0
  Here is the email I sent the manager: I am even more dissatisfied now than I was initially. Shortly after receiving the vehicle, I contacted your team to report that it strongly smelled of cigarette smoke, there were ashes in the cup holder and throughout the vehicle, and I found pills in plain sight in the back seat. This indicated that the vehicle had not been properly cleaned and raised concerns about its condition. I was told via text message that I would receive a discount, so I continued with the rental. I then spent nearly two days driving with the moonroof and windows open because the smoke odor was so severe. When I returned the vehicle, I briefly explained the situation to one of your associates, who indicated that I would not be charged for the rental and that I might even receive complimentary rental days on my account. Unfortunately, I was charged the full amount and have not received any discount or credit. This outcome is inconsistent with both the text message and the assurances provided at drop-off. I am extremely disappointed with the handling of this situation and would appreciate an immediate review and resolution. I would prefer to remain a customer rather than switch to another rental company, but experiences like this make it difficult to do so. I also intend to share this experience in the customer feedback survey I recently received.