Skip the counter when you rent a car with National in New York. Choose any car in the aisle and manage your car rental right from the National app with Emerald Club. Bring balance to business travel and book your National Car Rental in New York today!
Extremely disappointing experience with National on September 12 around 2:45 PM. As an Executive Elite member and frequent National customer, I expect a certain level of professionalism and customer service, and unfortunately, that was not what we received.
We had reserved a Premium Crossover through the National app, which was the highest and most expensive vehicle category available to book. We simply wanted to understand what vehicles were available and what our upgrade options would cost. Instead of receiving helpful answers, the employee assisting us was dismissive, impatient, and seemed frustrated that we were asking questions.
At one point, when we asked whether a Mercedes or BMW would be the better choice, her response was simply, “I don’t know.” We eventually had to rely on another employee, who was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and took the time to explain the differences and make a recommendation.
The situation became even more frustrating when the original employee told us to “please pick a car” because she had customers waiting. We had been asking reasonable questions for roughly 10 minutes—not holding up the line or intentionally delaying anything. As an Executive Elite member who rents from National frequently, I don’t think expecting basic courtesy and assistance is unreasonable.
We were also told that we should “book a higher category” next time, despite having already booked the highest category offered through the National app. When we pointed this out, the response was that the app “sucks” like that. That is an unacceptable way to address a customer, especially when the customer has paid for what the app represents as the highest available category.
There was also pre-existing damage on the vehicle that had not been properly documented, and we had to have an employee photograph it before leaving to protect ourselves.
To be clear, this isn’t about expecting special treatment or demanding an upgrade. It’s about being treated with respect, receiving accurate information, and having the vehicle condition properly documented.
One employee that day did provide excellent customer service, and I appreciate her professionalism. Unfortunately, the overall experience was still unacceptable.
I hope National management reviews what happened at this location. Executive Elite members and frequent customers should not have to deal with this level of dismissive and unprofessional service.
MM
Mikai
Sep 12, 2026
1.0
Very disappointing experience with National on September 12 at approximately 2:45 PM. We booked a Premium Crossover, the highest vehicle category available through the National app, and simply wanted to understand our vehicle options.
The female employee assisting us, who had an Afro updo, was dismissive and unhelpful. We asked several times about the cost of an upgrade before receiving an answer. When we asked whether the available Mercedes or BMW would be better, she replied, “I don’t know,” without offering any assistance.
She also emphasized that the vehicle hold would be approximately $800, even though the upgrade was only $50. We understand that a hold may be required, but the information was presented in a way that felt confusing and discouraging.
When she told us to “book a higher category” in the future, we explained that we had already booked the highest category available through the app. She responded that the app “sucks” like that. Why would you not honor what the app built as the highest and most expensive option and it is more than reasonable to assume we would get a luxury option at that price.
Another employee working that day was kind, patient, and knowledgeable. She recommended the BMW, explained the differences between the vehicles, and offered to walk over with us to answer questions.
This frustrated the original employee more than anything else. When we decided to choose the BMW, the original employee told us to “please pick a car” because she had customers. We had been asking reasonable questions for approximately 10 minutes and were not intentionally delaying the process or holding up the line.
There was also a dent on the vehicle that was not properly documented in the vehicle record. We had to have an employee take pictures before leaving. Pre-existing damage should be accurately recorded before the customer takes possession of the vehicle.
We are Executive Elite members and rent from National frequently. We were not asking for special treatment—only clear answers, respectful service, and accurate documentation of the vehicle’s condition. Unfortunately, the dismissive attitude and inappropriate comment about the app made the pickup experience unnecessarily frustrating.
The second employee provided the level of service we expected, but the overall experience was still very disappointing. We hope management reviews this incident and works to improve customer service at this location. There is more, but unfortunately, google review has a limit on how much you can type.
CK
Catherine Kirby
Aug 30, 2026
5.0
Rosalie completely saved us and our wedding. We were meant to drive down Friday with all our wedding outfits and assorted wedding supplies for our wedding that week. Unfortunately, my fiance booked the car for next month. Despite there being basically no cars available and us asking so much with a one-way rental, Rosalie saved us and got us a car to drive down to Philly with. I am so so appreciative!
VG
Varun Goverdhan
Aug 28, 2026
5.0
Always a smooth experience renting here! Ms. Jones and Edgar are great to work with!
CH
Chris Harrell
Aug 4, 2026
5.0
Very friendly and helpful staff here, highly recommend! We arrived early before the office opened, but the office is located indoors so we had a comfortable and dry place to wait since it was pouring rain outside.
Frequently Asked Questions About National Car Rental
Where is National Car Rental located in New York?
National Car Rental is located at 313 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019, USA.
What are the operating hours of National Car Rental in New York?
National Car Rental is open Monday to Wednesday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM, Saturday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
What types of car rentals does National Car Rental offer at this location?
National Car Rental offers economy car rentals, luxury car rentals, and general rental cars with features such as airport pick-up service.
How can I book a car rental with National in New York?
You can book your rental car online through their reservation website at https://www.nationalcar.com/en/car-rental-locations/us/ny/manhattan-upper-west-side-24gc.html.
Does National Car Rental in New York offer any discounts?
Yes, National Car Rental provides discounts for active military personnel.
Which payment methods are accepted at National Car Rental in New York?
Accepted payment options include American Express, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.
Can I pick any car from the lot when renting with National Car Rental in New York?
Yes, you can skip the counter and choose any car in the aisle by managing your rental through the National app with Emerald Club membership.
What are some nearby places to National Car Rental where I can park or eat?
Nearby National Car Rental, you can find Champion Parking for parking, and Bricco Ristorante Italiano for dining.
Are there fitness or recreational places near National Car Rental in New York?
Yes, near National Car Rental, there are fitness centers and recreational spots such as the New York Road Runners (NYRR), NYRR gym, Sheffield Skyclub Gym, and the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub.
What should I know about nearby healthcare services when renting a car at National Car Rental in New York?
Nearby healthcare options include Performing Arts Injury Care and International Travel Health Consultants, which can be useful if you have any medical needs during your visit.
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