Yes I started this thread but I inadvertently got a pre-paid non-refundable reservation with Hertz! It was through Priceline "Express Deals" that are non-refundable and you don't know exactly which rental company you'll get when booking. Priceline did indicate it will be "one of these companies" and listed Avis, National and you know who. This was definitely much cheaper than the published rates even with Costco, AAA and/or other coupons.

A little apprehensive, but armed with this knowledge of shenanigans, upon pick-up I plan to say I smell cigarette stench and animal poo, see stains and hairs everywhere, that there are scratches and dents all over the exterior and that the engine is "making strange noises." I'll add the used condom to boot. Photos will be taken before and after and I'll drop off the car earlier than usual to ensure a human checks me out and confirms everything is okay. I'll report here if there are issues.