When you’re on a car rental adventure, the last thing you want to worry about is being stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, dead battery, or some other mechanical issue. That’s why roadside assistance is an essential service that can provide peace of mind and quick help when you need it most. But with so many car rental companies offering roadside help, who can you trust to get you back on the road quickly and efficiently? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best roadside help in rental cars, what to look for, and how to make the most of this valuable service.
The Importance of Roadside Help in Rental Cars
Roadside assistance is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have for any car rental company that wants to provide a positive customer experience. According to a recent survey, 75% of car rental customers consider roadside assistance as an essential service, and 60% have used roadside help in the past. With the increasing popularity of road trips and car rentals, the demand for reliable roadside assistance is on the rise.
In this section, we’ll delve into the benefits of roadside help, the types of services offered, and what to expect from a top-notch roadside assistance provider.
Benefits of Roadside Help
Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver when you’re stranded on the side of the road. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Towing: Get your vehicle to a nearby repair shop or back to the rental location.
- Fuel delivery: Run out of gas? Get fuel delivered to your location.
- Lockout service: Get back on the road quickly if you’re locked out of your vehicle.
- Tire changes: Get a spare tire or have a professional change your flat tire.
Types of Roadside Services
Roadside assistance services can vary depending on the car rental company and the type of vehicle. Here are some of the most common services offered:
Top Car Rental Companies with Excellent Roadside Help
In this section, we’ll review the top car rental companies that offer exceptional roadside assistance services. We’ll examine their services, pricing, and customer reviews to give you a comprehensive overview of the best roadside help in rental cars.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise is one of the largest car rental companies in the world, with over 10,000 locations globally. Their roadside assistance service is available 24/7, and offers a range of benefits, including:
- Towing: Up to 50 miles free, then $3 per mile.
- Fuel delivery: Up to 3 gallons free, then $5 per gallon.
- Lockout service: Up to $100 in locksmith fees.
Enterprise’s roadside assistance is highly rated by customers, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. (See Also: Can I Get a Rental Car at 19? Young Driver Options)
Hertz Car Rental
Hertz is another well-established car rental company with a strong roadside assistance program. Their service is available 24/7, and offers benefits such as:
- Towing: Up to 50 miles free, then $3 per mile.
- Fuel delivery: Up to 3 gallons free, then $5 per gallon.
- Lockout service: Up to $100 in locksmith fees.
Hertz’s roadside assistance is highly rated by customers, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
What to Look for in a Roadside Assistance Provider
When choosing a car rental company, it’s essential to consider the quality of their roadside assistance service. Here are some key factors to look for:
Availability
Make sure the roadside assistance is available 24/7, with a dedicated phone number or online support.
Response Time
Look for providers that guarantee a quick response time, such as within 30 minutes or less.
Services Offered
Check the types of services offered, including towing, fuel delivery, lockout service, and tire changes. (See Also: Can You Use Southwest Points for Rental Cars? Unlock Your Travel Options)
Pricing
Compare pricing among different providers, including any additional fees for services such as towing or fuel delivery.
Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of the provider’s roadside assistance service.
Summary
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the importance of roadside assistance in rental cars, the benefits of roadside help, and the top car rental companies that offer exceptional roadside assistance services. When choosing a car rental company, make sure to consider the quality of their roadside assistance service, including availability, response time, services offered, pricing, and customer reviews. By doing so, you can ensure a safe and stress-free car rental experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the average response time for roadside help?
The average response time for roadside help varies depending on the provider and location. However, most top car rental companies guarantee a response time of within 30 minutes or less.
Do all car rental companies offer roadside assistance?
No, not all car rental companies offer roadside assistance. However, most major car rental companies offer some form of roadside help. (See Also: Do You Have to Clean Rental Cars? The Truth Revealed)
Is roadside assistance included in the rental price?
It depends on the car rental company and the type of vehicle. Some companies include roadside assistance in the rental price, while others charge an additional fee.
Can I use roadside assistance for non-emergency issues?
It depends on the provider and the type of service. Some providers may offer non-emergency services such as fuel delivery or lockout service, while others may only offer emergency services such as towing.
Can I purchase roadside assistance as an add-on to my rental?
Yes, many car rental companies offer roadside assistance as an add-on to your rental. The cost varies depending on the provider and the type of service.