The tires look bad in the photos. However, one example does not warrant a blanket generalization of Hertz as renting unsafe cars. You rented in MEL. Is that typical at that location? Has anyone experienced the same or similar problems elsewhere? Yes, Hertz should have high maintenance standards everywhere and this should not have passed inspection. That reflects very badly on this location, but unless you have had similar experience at other locations, it is unfounded to flatly state that Hertz rents unsafe cars. Could you give us more information on the response you got when you pointed out the problem? Perhaps the title of your thread could more accurately reflect your dissatisfaction with this specific rental experience and problem.