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Car Rental at Fort Lauderdale Airport
The Rental Car Center (RCC) at Fort Lauderdale Airport brings together most of the major companies in a single, convenient facility. However, travelers' experiences reveal a marked division: while premium brands tend to offer a smoother service at a higher cost, budget options often involve a significant risk of long waits, aggressive sales tactics, and inconsistent vehicle quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the car rental process at FLL fast?
It largely depends on the company. Budget brands like Thrifty, Dollar, Fox, and Budget are known for having counter wait times that can exceed an hour, especially on high-demand days. Companies like Enterprise or National with loyalty programs are usually significantly faster. Always plan for considerable extra time.
How can I avoid hidden charges?
The most reported tactic is the insistent selling of insurance and toll passes (SunPass). Before traveling, check if your personal insurance or credit card already covers rentals. Read every line of the contract carefully before signing and firmly refuse any additional services you do not want. Do not let the agents pressure you.
What should I do when picking up the vehicle?
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly inside and out. Use your phone to record a video or take photos of any existing damage (scratches, dents, upholstery stains) before leaving the parking lot. This is your best protection against possible damage claims that you did not cause.
Will I receive the car model I booked?
Not always. It is a common complaint, especially with low-cost agencies, to receive a vehicle of a lower category than reserved. If this happens, do not accept the vehicle without first negotiating a price adjustment or requesting the correct car, although this may involve an additional wait.
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Critical Points / Traveler's Handbook
The Dilemma: Low Price vs. High Risk
Choosing a rental company at FLL is a clear exercise in balancing cost and peace of mind. The lowest rates almost always come with a higher risk of long waits, vehicles in poorer condition, and poor customer service. Consider whether the economic savings compensate for the potential frustration and loss of time.
The Aggressive Sales Tactic: Insurance and Tolls
Be prepared for considerable pressure to buy the company's insurance and the daily toll pass. Agents may argue that your personal insurance is not valid. Research your coverage beforehand and stand firm. If your trip is long, buying a SunPass transponder at a local store can be much cheaper than the daily rental fee.
Document Everything: Your Best Defense
Given the number of complaints about charges for pre-existing damage, it is essential to protect yourself. Before leaving the lot, take detailed photos and videos of the car, including the interior, exterior, tires, and mileage. Have any damage recorded in the contract before you sign it.
The Real Cost of Savings is Your Time
Lines of over an hour at the counters of low-cost agencies are a reality documented by hundreds of travelers. If your vacation time is valuable, investing a little more in a company with better reviews and a quick check-in program (like Alamo Skip the Counter or National Emerald Aisle) may be the smartest decision.
List of companies. Pros and Cons according to users
The rental car center (RCC) brings together 12 companies in a single facility adjacent to Terminal 1. For added convenience, there is an ATM on the third level, near the front entrance doors.
ACE Rent a Car
Phone: +1 877 822 3872
Hours: 24 hours
Location: Level 3
Pros:
- Initial prices that are usually very competitive.
- Some users highlight the friendliness of specific agents.
Cons:
- Highly criticized for "bait and switch" tactics (offering one car and delivering another of lower quality or unwanted).
- Recurring complaints about unexplained additional charges and issues with insurance and toll coverage.
- Vehicles with maintenance problems reported by users.
Alamo Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 462 5266
Hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 am
Location: Level 2
Pros:
- The "Skip the Counter" system is highly praised for its speed and efficiency.
- Generally considered a reliable option with a simple pickup and return process.
- Good selection of vehicles in most cases.
Cons:
- The cleanliness of the vehicles can be inconsistent.
- During peak hours, the wait at the counter for those not using online check-in can be long.
Avis Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 331 1212
Hours: 24 hours
Location: Level 3
Pros:
- "Avis Preferred" members report a generally smooth experience.
- Some agents are highlighted for their excellent customer service, going above and beyond to help.
Cons:
- Numerous complaints about dirty vehicles being delivered (smell of smoke, food scraps, animal hair).
- Recurring problems with billing and subsequent charges for damages not caused by the customer.
- The night shift service has been rated as poor.
Budget Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 218 7992
Hours: 24 hours
Location: Level 4
Pros:
- Usually offers lower initial booking prices than premium brands.
Cons:
- Extremely long wait times at the counter due to lack of staff.
- Frequent reports of not honoring reservations due to lack of vehicles.
- Staff often described as unhelpful or with a bad attitude.
- Complaints about incorrect charges (fuel rates, fines) after return.
Dollar Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 800 5252
Hours: 4:00 am to 1:00 am
Location: Level 4
Pros:
- Very attractive booking prices.
- Some users have had quick and trouble-free experiences during low-demand times.
Cons:
- Shares a counter with Thrifty, resulting in lines and waits described as "painfully slow."
- Strong pressure from agents to add unwanted services like insurance and prepaid fuel.
- Vehicles often delivered dirty, with damage or mechanical problems.
Enterprise Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 736 8222
Hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 am
Location: Level 2
Pros:
- Consistently praised for its excellent and friendly customer service.
- Pickup and return process described as easy, fast, and efficient.
- Fleet of vehicles generally new, clean, and in perfect condition.
Cons:
- Its rates are usually higher compared to low-cost companies.
- Some users have noted a slight inconsistency in the cleanliness of the vehicle interiors recently.
Fox Rent a Car
Phone: +1 323 593 7485
Hours: 5:00 am to 1:00 am
Location: Level 3
Pros:
- Very low rates that attract budget-conscious travelers.
Cons:
- Wait times at the counter that can exceed an hour.
- Aggressive sales tactics and hidden charges (especially insurance) that significantly increase the final price.
- Frequent unavailability of the reserved car type, forcing customers to accept a lower category.
Hertz Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 654 3131
Hours: 4:00 am to 2:00 am
Location: Level 3
Pros:
- Good selection of vehicles, including high-end models.
- Loyalty program members (President's Circle) usually have a smoother experience.
Cons:
- Complaints about poor vehicle maintenance (low tires, warning lights, expired registrations).
- Inconsistent customer service, with reports of managers and staff with bad attitudes.
- Charges considered excessive and final rates well above what was expected.
National Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 227 7368
Hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 am
Location: Level 2
Pros:
- The "Emerald Aisle" program is praised for allowing members to choose their own car and leave quickly.
- Considered one of the most reliable and efficient options, ideal for business travelers.
- Generally professional and helpful staff.
Cons:
- The selection of cars in the "Aisle" can be basic and disappointing on high-demand days.
- Cases of vehicles with a smoke smell or maintenance issues have been reported.
Payless Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 729 5377
Hours: 24 hours
Location: Level 3
Pros:
- Offers some of the lowest booking rates.
Cons:
- Rated by many users as a "scam" or "rip-off" due to unexpected charges and high deposits.
- Very strict and confusing insurance policies that force many customers to buy their coverage.
- Reports of extremely poor and confrontational customer service.
Sixt Rent a Car
Phone: +1 888 747 7498
Hours: 6:00 am to 12:00 am
Location: Level 4
Pros:
- Modern and attractive vehicle fleet, with a good selection of European models.
- Pickup process that can be very fast if you check in online.
- Staff often praised for their friendliness and professionalism.
Cons:
- Recurring complaints about "bait and switch" tactics, where the reserved car is not available and customers are pressured to accept an expensive upgrade.
- The counter may close before the arrival of delayed flights, leaving customers without a car despite having a reservation.
Thrifty Rent a Car
Phone: +1 800 334 1705
Hours: 4:00 am to 1:00 am
Location: Level 4
Pros:
- Very cheap initial booking rates.
Cons:
- Wait times at the counter rated as unacceptably long (often over an hour).
- Strong sales pressure for insurance and other extras.
- Numerous reports of vehicles delivered in poor condition (dirty, smoke smell, mechanical problems).
- Considered by many as a high-risk and frustrating experience.
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Pick-up area
If you arrive at Terminal 1, follow the RCC signs to the pedestrian bridge in Concourse B, located next to the security checkpoint on level 2.
If you arrive at terminals 2, 3, or 4, follow the RCC signs to the passenger pickup area for the courtesy bus service, outside the baggage claim level, next to the curb. These vehicles will take you to the RCC.
Return area
Before your flight's departure, return the rental car to the respective company located at the RCC. Shuttle buses are available to transport you from the RCC to terminals 2, 3, and 4 for boarding. Terminal 1 is accessible via a pedestrian bridge on level 2.
The shuttle service to the RCC connects the lower level of all terminals with level 3 of the rental center. Available every 10 minutes, 24 hours.
Off-airport
The following companies also offer car rental services but are not located within the RCC.
To access these companies, follow the instructions above to get to the RCC. Then, head to Zone G to board a free shuttle service. There is a courtesy phone between stop number 6 and Zone G, which allows you to contact the external car rental companies.
- Easirent (Tel +1 954 314 0302)
- Economy (Tel +1 754 312 2938)
- Go Rentals (Tel +1 954 951 8005)
- Gold Coast (Tel +1 954 522 0665)
- JC Car Rental (Tel +1 786 567 0943)
- Next Car (Tel +1 954 900 4536)
- One Leasing / Green Motion (Tel +1 954 231 6333)
- Rent A Car 4 Less (Tel +1 866 327 7037)
- U-Save (Tel +1 954 909 5315)
- ZezGo (Tel +1 800 314 7306)