I had a flat a mile from the airport on the way to return. I do not buy road service or CDW, I called and asked them what I should do and they just said change the tire and bring it in. I'm glad I always plan to get to the airport early.

I turn the vehicle in and they fill out a damage report. They asked me if there was anything else wrong with the car and I said it needs a new rear wiper blade. I get a notice in about two weeks that they would be charging my CC $91 for a new tire and $14 for the new wiper blade. I called customer service and had a long discussion. Bottom line they said for safety reasons they do not repair flats and that it is considered damage to the vehicle. The $91 was mine to cover. I asked about taking it to a tire shop for a repair and was told that I am not authorized to do that and that they could close my account and charge me for a new tire anyway if they knew.

After a few minutes more, the charge for the wiper blade was removed.

I rent about 40 times year and this is the only damage charge ever, so I am still way ahead. I carry a rider on my commercial insurance for major damage to rental cars. It is a super cheap $50 per year. I have AAA which covers road service, but they can be slow and I had to get to the airport.

One lesson learned. When they ask me if I had any problems with the car I car I say "Not a thing. It was perfect."