Budget gets some Bad Press in Vancouver...
 

I think there is another thread outlining many of these issues. Happened to me earlier this year, I will never rent from budget again.

Saw the story last night. I've thought about renting from Budget.. but not after seeing that.

Ron.

I recall reading similar bad publicity around the Winter Olympics. Scary part is the guy owns 80 franchises in BC (according to CBC).

Thank god I don't drive in YVR.

I am not surprised.
When I rented in YVR from them last year, I was surprised at how minute their investigation of the car was upon return. Never see that before.

Minos

I believe most if not all BC locations are franchised, and therefore could all be owned by the same parent company. I'm pretty sure whoever owns the Vancouver Island locations also runs the operation in Vancouver.

This is totally what happens when you have a franchise location, and don't forget the location gets a bonus, at the end of each month on how much revenue they bring in!!!

I think the reps should change the title to "Budget Vancouver Locations Class action Lawsuit"

Budget Rent-a-car ripoffs in Vancouver
 

Saw the article....glad you posted it so folks are aware. Huge problem for Budget and those involved if they don't handle this properly....a few bad BC apples can indeed ruin a whole BC barrel so why take a chance.

The story continues....
 

The story continues....

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/britis...tinsiders.html

This guy should go to jail if found guilty!
He's no different then a thief!!

That location got me 2 years ago. They pointed out a very tiny chip on the windshield, but kept calling a "cracked" windshield. They insisted on charging my company's credit card $700 to replace the windshield (not necessary), claiming they'd refund the difference if it cost less. I'm not sure if my company paid it, but I've forwarded them the article.

I rent from Budget throughout North America nearly every week. That is the only problem I've ever had.

Budget Rent-a-car ripoffs in Vancouver
 

There are few articles about them. They are real crooks. I came along the article after a friend was charged C$1100 for a tiny chip on the windshield at that location.

Pity that this article came out the same day I returned my car, to their claim that I had cracked the right bottom front light. Not the main lights, but the smaller light.

On initial inspection, when I walked around - yes, you CANNOT see it unless the lights are on. Which of course I didn't do. And then upon the attendant walkaround - they are not going to mention it...would they?

I didn't take up any of their insurance, and relied on my own ICBC insurance which is $10 a day as opposed to $30 a day with them.

When I returned the car 4 days later, I was advised that there was a crack to the light. I was initially charged $375 for 'deposit' and that the light would cost no more than $50 to repair as it was 'small'. And that the rest would be refunded to me.

Today I checked my creditcard and I was only refunded $75.This was their charge : Loss of use ??? Boy, they really take the maximum they can, huh?

I have to admit that the car I got, a Volvo S60 was great value at $15 a day, so total I have to say that they only got $300 for the balance. As I've got a low balance on this debit card, doubt they can take any more money out of it !

Although the Budget Rental location downtown is much better in perhaps attitude. I'll just stick with AVIS next time.