On January 16, 2025 7:45 PM in Houston, Texas, IAH Airport the rental agent advised me that I must purchase the toll program at $14.99 per day, resulting in a total charge of $38.31 to my credit card. The agent stated that if I did not purchase this option, I would incur toll charges of approximately $15 each time I passed through a toll. Before agreeing to this charge, I clearly explained my travel plans in detail and showed the agent my GPS route. My travel consisted only of driving from the airport to my hotel in Katy, very limited local driving near the hotel (with most destinations within walking distance), and returning to the airport on Sunday. Despite reviewing my route, the agent strongly insisted that I purchase the toll package and warned that I would pay significantly more without it. Based on this representation, I agreed. In reality, I only passed through two tolls, each clearly posted at $1.50 for two-axle vehicles. Even accounting for the return trip, the total toll cost would be approximately $6.00 (four tolls total). This amount is far less than the $38.31 charged and confirms that the information provided to me was inaccurate and misleading. I am also concerned that this interaction reflects sales pressure to purchase unnecessary add-on services rather than transparent customer guidance. After researching this issue on the Better Business Bureau website, Yelp, Google Reviews, and your company's own customer reviews, I found numerous complaints describing the same experience customers being pressured into purchasing toll packages and other add-ons that were not needed. This appears to be an ongoing and recurring issue rather than an isolated incident. Very disappointed read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

See all

So I had paid for the car before the holiday as I got there they then charged me another 1,300$ after the holiday I dropped the car off and they just sent me a bill stating that they will be taking another 800$ due to the gas not being topped up but yet on the receipt that I have it stats that I did not have to fill up before dropping the car off. I don't recommend Thrifty at all I didn't get the car I wanted or booked for and I had booked the car mths before hand charged me a arm and a leg for a shitty car that also wasn't cleaned when I got it read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

In hindsight, I really wished I read some of the reviews here prior to renting with Thrifty at IAH, most of it was true. I paid through a third party, Capital one, for a small size car about the size of a Toyota Corolla for 5 days which came out to ~$250, and made the reservation for a pickup day and time, thinking that should be the only cost. When I showed up they asked for my credit card and then tacked on a bunch of other fees, including a loss damage waiver (LDW), liability insurance supplement (LIS), premium road service, toll roads, concession fee, tax, and fuel charge. This totaled ~$430 and was considered a one week package despite only renting for 5 days, almost nearing double the price of the actual rental... We had to argue about how much of this was necessary, and was able to get rid of the toll road fee (which I would definitely recommend against getting it, avoiding tolls in Houston is really easy with GPS, and doesn't usually take much longer). That cut down the cost by ~$70, but still got tricked into paying a whopping $350 on top of the original price of the rental. All of the waivers and insurances they charge are OPTIONAL, especially if you have your own insurance and/or AAA. The fuel charge can be optional too but you just have to fill it yourself if you waive it. But they definitely make it sound like it's mandatory and try to squeeze extra money out of you with these shady practices. Don't make the same mistake I did and make sure to read the fine print and question every charge they have on the receipt. I am never renting from Thrifty again. Enterprise was half the cost for the same kind of car and only charged me the necessary charges. read more

Absolutely terrible. Rented a week and told them I wasn't sure if we'd need the car longer, when we rented. After 8 days they disabled the car rather than send a simple text message like other companies do asking us if we'd like to extend. This put us in a dangerous situation. My disabled 84 yo mother was forced into hours of trying to walk or stand when she couldn't. Spent an hour on the phone with them and they had no solution other than to tow the car and send an Uber to get us to take us back to the airport to get another car. Mind boggling terrible experience. read more

I posted this on Google reviews originally. Thrifty replied with a link to an FAQ Support page. If I could give negative stars, I would for this facility. DO NOT RENT FROM THIFTY. The vehicle they rented us was totally substandard and the fact they did shows how little they care. My family and I arrived at the facility several hours behind schedule due to flight delays. Everything was setup in advance and they even gave us a "free upgrade" which in retrospect I assume was sarcasm. So let's give you the run down on the vehicle and if you think they would never rent out a vehicle then remember they did: - Sawdust in the trunk area that coated the bottom portion of the seats - Front passenger seat slashed at mid level - Part of seat fabric cut - Multiple cuts in a row under the passenger side window - Screw in front passenger tire which led to slow leak had to be replaced at own expense. - From mechanic who changed tire, brakes need replacing. - Bluetooth that didn't work when taking calls. Callers couldn't hear you but you can hear callers. - Strapes along exterior I noticed a few of these initially and went to report these to the woman who was on-staff that the time who couldn't careless. "Just take some videos and if they charge you then send the videos to dispute it. You might get your money back." I definitely have the videos and Thifty has tons of "We're getting bought out/going out of business and we don't care" vibes. Times are tight but don't take a chance on this one. Spend a little extra to get it right the first time. The cheap will always cost you more long term. EDIT: I reviewed the link sent below by the "owner" of this Thrift. It's a general support FAQ page. No way to reply on here. I talk about specific negatives about my experience renting from Thrifty at the Houston airport and they send me a page of irrelevant generalities read more

See all

Rental was for thanksgiving week and everything ran smooth. I rented through a third party and picked up with no issues. Garcia helped me out and delivered exceptional customer service and was very nice. He went out of his way to help me and my kids which I really appreciate. The car ran fine and was is good condition considering the miles. read more

To start off we were supposed to pick up our rental at 6:00am and the employee did not show up until 6:12am besides the fact that she was already late she proceeded to be disrespectful and give attitude for no reason when we were only polite from the start. On top of that she was trying to add on a lot of random fees that were not necessary and continued to argue which was very unprofessional. If you were looking into booking here just save your time and money and go somewhere else! read more

Worst car rental experience we have ever had. First of all, the rental cost over $300 more than our estimate. Second, they changed our car last minute. Third, the car they gave us wreaked of weed and cheap air fresheners, and more concerning was the electrical problem which caused the blinkers to malfunction. Finally, Thrifty charged us nearly $1000 ($100 per day) after we returned the car. Why? Because they claimed we had not returned it. It took me a whopping ten days (and many, many phone calls) to get them to deal with the problem. Everyone we spoke to (both in-person and on the phone) was rude, unprofessional, and unhelpful. The entire experience was terrible from start to finish. If you want to be endangered by driving a faulty car and then get soaked by ridiculous fees, rent from Thrifty. Otherwise, STAY AWAY! read more

Waited in line about 40 minutes for the agent to get me checked out and my rental contract printed. Only two employees were working. Got outside and no cars were available/ready at the moment. Stood in line behind several others to wait for a vehicle to be cleaned and brought out. That took about another 20-30 minutes. Based on the reviews I see here, this is the norm for this location. Stay away!!! read more

See all

I paid for the fuel. It looks like they charged me more for the fuel when i return the car. So be careful and watch out for the final bill from them. read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - Extra charges that the employees are trying to scam you. - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

Subject: Formal Dispute of $250 Cleaning Fee - Violation of Rental Terms and Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally dispute a $250 charge applied to my recent Thrifty car rental for what was described as an "excessive cleaning" or "concession" fee. Per Thrifty's Rental Agreement, a $75 cleaning fee may be charged if a vehicle requires cleaning beyond standard procedures. A $250 fee is only applicable if the vehicle requires "excessive or specialized cleaning, including the use of additional cleaning supplies or a third-party vendor." At the time of return, I was informed the vehicle was considered "excessively dirty" due to minor debris (sunflower seeds and popcorn on the floor) and a small apple juice spot on a seat. Thrifty personnel indicated the vehicle would simply be vacuumed and wiped down. This does not meet the contractual threshold for "excessive or specialized cleaning," as: 1. No specialized cleaning process would be required 2. No third-party vendor would be needed 3. The cleaning described as needed, falls within standard vehicle turnover procedures Additionally: * I was not provided any documentation, photos, or evidence supporting the claim * I was not informed at pickup of any threshold that would trigger a $250 fee * I was not given an opportunity to remedy the issue, despite returning the vehicle approximately two hours early and offering to clean it myself. Even after swiping the popcorn and seeds onto the ground, I was told it's still excessive and the attendant walked away. * The vehicle was not in pristine condition at pickup Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA) This charge raises concerns under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (Tex. Bus. & Com. Code §17.41 et seq.), including but not limited to: * Misrepresenting services or charges (charging for "excessive cleaning" when only standard cleaning was required) * Failing to disclose material terms that would affect a consumer's decision (no clear definition or threshold for "excessive cleaning") * Engaging in unconscionable actions by imposing a disproportionate $250 fee for minimal, ordinary use conditions The application of this fee, based on employee "judgement", appears inconsistent with Thrifty's own contract and constitutes a potentially deceptive or unfair business practice under Texas law. Requested Resolution Based on the above, I formally request: * Immediate reversal of the $250 cleaning fee * Written justification and supporting documentation if Thrifty intends to uphold the charge, including proof of specialized cleaning or third-party services If this matter is not resolved promptly, I will proceed with: * A formal chargeback through my credit card provider * A complaint filed with the Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division * Additional remedies available under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Sincerely,Joe PruittRental Agreement Number: #L5284088402Rental Dates: Wed, March 18,2026 to Sunday, Mar 22, 1026 read more

HORRIBLE!!! I rented a VW from them. I ended up getting a flat tire. No spare in the car and they didn't even have a jack to change the tire! I called customs service and they tell me that I some cars don't come with that stuff. No help at all!!! I'm happy that I wasn't stranded on the side of the road. read more

Imagine pre-paying for a car, uploading license and credit card info to streamline the process, and still being told on arrival of a "two or more hour" wait to receive a car. Now add in a woman boasting attitude, volume and a complete lack of empathy - that's what you get fromThrifty IAH. One might anticipate some form of "service recovery" but not here. read more

See all

I was so pleasantly surprised by our experience. I believe the lady who helped us is named Alex (or something similar based on her signature) and she deserves all of the credit. She was the only person working at the Thrifty counter, which I assume cannot be easy. She was so helpful and gave us all the information that we wish we knew beforehand. She answered questions we didn't even know we had. She carefully explained each charge to make sure we knew exactly what we were paying for. She went above and beyond to make sure we knew how to book a car stress free in the future (since we made some mistakes trying to do it online). I am so grateful for her kindness and willingness to help us out, we had such a stressful travel experience beforehand and it was such a relief to have her help. read more

THEYRE LIARS!!! The guy at the front was telling me that I needed to purchase a protection package from them and I said we don't need to buy it because we already had our own insurance. He said that they don't accept our own insurance (AAA) and that we had NO option but to purchase a protection package from them. When I asked why it costed $350 when it said 160 online, he even said that I probably did something on my phone and chose coverage. Trying to make it seem like it was my mistake when he knew damn well I didn't choose any coverage. After me insisting that we didn't want to purchase anything, he finally put in the system that we had our own insurance. Then I noticed that the price he was giving me was still higher than what it said when I made the reservation (I booked through a third-party). And I asked why it was higher and he showed me a cost breakdown and I saw that he applied the prepaid gas charge. I WAS NEVER ASKED ABOUT THAT. I said I didn't want that, and he insisted many times that I needed it, then he changed it up saying that paying for the prepaid gas was going to be the same as filling up the tank myself. After a lot of insisting he finally took off all of the charges, he gave us directions to where the car was and told us "have a nice day" in a rude manner. Just because he didn't make commission off of me doesn't mean that he should be rude. Absolutely unacceptable. The car we got was nice though, but I don't think it was worth the headache while checking in. read more

They scam and lie by forcing you to buy their insurance product even if you've purchased other coverage. Just say NO to their scam pointless insurance and pushy lying salespeople. read more

Just avoid this place. We could not find out how to even get to this location. We spent an hour driving around and nothing. We finally found it in the opposite side of the area it was supposed to be in after following a shuttle bus that had a big "Thirfty" car rental sign. We even called them and the person we spoke with didn't understand what we were trying to tell her. Once we finally got our car , it was the wrong one. After all that time we went through to get the car we just took it. It didn't fit everything we needed it to fit when moving my daughter to college so we called to try and work something out and nothing was done. Listen to the reviews . Don't even use this as a last resort. read more

Do not rent from thrifty they don't deserve any stars. They are a big scam. Purchased the full option and when signing the paper work the lady renting the car made it seem that it would be cheaper to pre purchase the full and at no time made it clear that you will not get a refund so the only way that this works is if you return the car on empty. Everything is extra at thrifty and their customer service is a joke. Do not rent from them. Would leave zero stars if possible. Do not rent from thrifty. read more

RUDE employees. Very unhelpful. We had an online booking and needed to update our driver, they had inconsistent policies and made everything our problem making us call customer service and waiting over an hour to get our car. WORST SERVICE. DO NOT COME HERE! read more

It's not worth waiting in a huge line to be greeted with zero customer service at the desk. These people hate their job and have no pride in their work. Go elsewhere - it's worth the money. read more

Went to pick up car that I had already paid for. The guy says oh all we have is electric, I didn't pay for electric or ask for that. Well, if you want a regular car have to pay extra $262. I had to have a car so I paid it. Then after they sent me an email and I told them the issue. Oh we will look into it and contact you. I got an email with my issue is closed. How did we do? This place is horrible. Will NEVER rent a car from them again. read more

A car rental that was advertised at 41.99/day ended up with a total of $335 Do not rent from this company! read more

Rented a car from them recently through Priceline. I purchased the extra protection package from them for an additional $80 which covers everything...well when I go pickup the car the person behind the desk offers me their protection package, I decline saying I have already purchased through 3rd party. She said ok and just told me to sign on the pad for the car, not realizing she added it anyway. A few days later when I realized what she had done I contacted customer service and they told me "You signed the agreement, nothing we can do". Very deceptive, anyone thinking of renting from them should avoid this company. Watch out for extra charges they add on even after you decline them. read more

Do not ever rent from this company they are legit scam artist who charges extra fees and don't explain the correct details of what you will be fully charged beware. Scamming ass company never again. read more

They deduct 500$ out your account when picking up the vehicle so be ready for that. OH but don't listen when they save they gonna give it back after 24-48 hours . When I ruturned my vehicle my receipt said they charged me 400$ FOR OUTSIDE WASH! Ha then 116$ on top but yea this place sucks please don't waste your money or time the process to get my car took another 2 hours read more

Read the reviews. Don't do it. You'll regret it. You'll wait forever in line. Your pregnant wife and toddler will be stuck in building that's 85 degrees and humid. You'll be overcharged. And then you'll spend hours after disputing. Please. Save yourself. read more

They stack on fees that they don't tell you about when booking. A $500 deposit with use of a debit card, and a MANDATORY credit check. With credit card, $200 deposit and no credit check. The desk worker was rude, and spoke very quickly, and he got irritated when we asked him to repeat things. Don't book this company, and specifically, don't book through a third party travel management company. They also said they wouldn't take the insurance that we paid for with the booking of the vehicle. read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

Don't rent here unless you bring chairs and food. 2.5 hours and still 100 people ahead of me. I checked in online but was told I must wait in this line to get my car. read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - IAH car rental line for Thrifty - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

worst rental experience ever. From the arrogant rude and entitled agent to the disheveled person at the car drop-off who while sitting on another vehicle yelled at us to just leave. I really cant believe this is a functioning business. the vehicle itself had many miles, streaking windshield washers and no washer fluid. read more

Horribly long wait to get a car, about an hour and a half. Not enough employees working the desk.

They only have 3 people in the counter and my wait time in line to get a car was waaaay longer than my flight...I'm now at 3 hours

The worst place to rent a car if you even get one. We were told you MAY get a car. After waiting a very long time. Finally got a car with a nail in it. Please note this is the third time we've had to wait for a car for over an hour. But this recent experience has been the worst. If you're in a hurry figure out another plan. They don't care if you're stranded- they really don't! Very disappointed. read more

75 people in line and only 2 stations open. Your customer service sucks. Never again. We will let everyone know to boycott Thrifty and Dollar . read more

This was a horrible experience! Booked through Priceline to pick up the car at Atlanta Airport. I booked a car for a specific time and paid in advance so I would not have to drive after dark to a location that I was not familiar with. As an older woman traveling alone, I always make reservations for everything in advance. When I arrived at the location, a sign said to download the app so I could skip the service desk. Tried for 45 minutes, with no success, while waiting in line - just in case- When I was finally the third in line, I listened to the two men in front of me, get a car after being told there were none available unless they waited 90+ minutes or accepted and paid for an upgrade. I got the same; no cars, even with a prepaid reservation for a specific time unless I accepted a $30 per day upcharge. With no choice other than waiting as a single woman, I took the upgrade. I drove to the location and parked the car for an entire week without driving it anywhere else. When I returned the car, I was told there was a 3/8 inch (tiny) ding on the windshield just below the center mirror. I have insurance that covers me when I rent, so I denied the extra insurance. When I told them about my insurance (and I don't believe the windshield ding happened to me), I was told I would have to wait until they contacted my insurance company for approval for the repair and it could take a couple of hours. I am now wondering about getting to my next flight. I paid the $35 repair fee and left very angry. Read the other reviews and NEVER book from Thrifty or Dollar. I was told they are all the same. read more

I'd give it less if I had the option worst experience with a rental car I've ever had and I'm not even one to complain. 1st off don't get electric. 2nd be prepared to wait 3rd if you do get electric. They cap off the charge amount to 80 so the Can make 40 extra bucks. DO NOT RECCOMEND read more

The Service is bad watch out they will steal your Deposit and charge you extra fees taken out your money from your account nt. read more

I rented a care from Hotwire for 7pm, yes it let me book online for this time... when we showed up at 7pm, they were closed. Apparently they are open from 7am-7pm, but this was not stated anywhere on my reservation. When I called to see what I could do they said " you could have gotten your care at 7am when we opened" I responded "I rented a car Sunday night to be somewhere Monday morning, the response I got was " sorry no refunds" unreal! I would NOT recommend renting from them, unless you have zero plans to be anywhere read more

That's a half star. I've been in line 45 minutes and im still only half way in the line. (see pictures) one people in front of me and second people behind me. They have three people working and still love 50 people in line. People are coming back to counter because cars have issues. They are not prepared for the number of peope. read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - Line behind me. - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

See all

I rented my vehicle through Priceline which was prepaid and denied coverage. This was paid with my booking package and all I had to do was pick up the car. Upon arriving at the rental at IAH airport, my flight was late and arrived right before closing, 10PM, they close at 11PM. Thus, it was already a wasted day, and I didn't mind. The clerk at the counter was rushing since it was near closing time and inputted everything quickly and did not explain anything. I had to figure out later on how to pick up the car, where to drop off and who to call when needed. She asked if I wanted extra insurance coverage, I CLEARLY STATED NO, ONLY WHAT I BOOK AND PREPAID FOR. Then she handed me the paper slip and told me to sign here, sign here, sign here and grabbed the paper and told me to go to the parking lot. After everything I had charged on my credit card and when I called, they said I was charged for insurance and other fees. I told them I had declined these when I picked up the car and customer service said they are sorry and cannot do anything about it. I was charged an additional $307.45 USD ON TOP OF MY PREPAID CHARGED MADE WITH MY PACKAGE. Then there was a bunch of other charges made on my card which the company could not explain. There was charges two days after I returned the car for 138.34 CAD, in which I am still figuring out and had to put a dispute in with my bank. Customer service at Thrifty said they would email the location and i asked to have it emailed to me too for dispute, they never sent the email. Very unprofessional and no offer of compensation was made for this. This company is a scam and there are so many complaints online similar to my experience and clerks earn commission off of charging people insurance without them knowing. They charged me after I declined and scammed me into signing things without explaining and then started charging my credit card for other fees and no explanation. Their response; We apologize for any misunderstanding regarding the additional charges billed for the Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) on your recent rental. Our records show that these services were accepted and signed for at the time of rental.  As such, the benefits of these services were extended for the duration of your rental.  As these charges were outlined on the rental contract, which was signed, they are considered valid and a refund not warranted. Please find a copy of your Signed Rental Agreement (SRA) attached. It is the customers responsibility to review the terms of this documentation, which a printed copy is provided in the rental sleeve, before departing the facility. With this in mind, we must respectfully decline your request for a refund of the optional services as they were accepted and the benefit of the service provided for the duration of your rental. While we are unable to recreate a verbal conversation at the rental counter, we must base our decision on the rental contract. Due to this, we encourage all customers to review the printed and provided copy of the rental contract before leaving the rental facility. read more

Thrifty Rent A Car - Car Rental Near Me - Houston, Texas

See all

Every time I have used this company at Atlanta Airport, it has been sooooo terrible. No cars when you get there. "Skip the line" check and still spend 45 minutes in the line. 30 people in line and 2 reps working the counter. Any savings isn't worth it. read more