I've use Hertz only for 15 years and just switched to Dollar and noted the same thing. They also will charge the customer for a flat tire and lost revenue while the car is out of service. So if a previous customer picks up a nail and it goes flat on your rental, you get nailed!

Having said that, I've used them 3 times and without incident, and the cars were in decent condition. Their policies make me a bit concerned; but they are usually much cheaper than Hertz. The Express service does not come close to Hertz Gold service convenience.

I'm sure the significant differences in rental fees come from these policies, off- off site locations, outsourced security guards and other cost savings.( re: labor costs)