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Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: MCI
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Posts: 52,575
So I clicked on one of those net promoter requests and gave them feedback about the refueling charges. To my surprise, I actually got a response from the local manager.
His response was that they always refuel the cars with 89-octane fuel, which is why they actually prefer that the renter not refuel, because they're aware that renters always put 87 into rental cars. Audi does indeed recommend 89 in their cars, so that part is certainly believable. I didn't investigate whether you could buy 89 in Phoenix for less than $2.99, but I'll assume it was close to that.
They actually refunded my whole fuel charge, even though I certainly didn't ask for it or expect it.
I'll take their word for it. If I ever decide to refuel a Silvercar, I'll use 89 since that's likely what I was given at the start of the rental. But knowing this, I do feel a bit better about just bringing it back without refueling.