Car Rental Services - O'Hare Airport
Flexibility to Move Around the City: Car Rentals
O'Hare's Multi-Modal Facility houses a centralized car rental facility where major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Thrifty, Sixt, National, and Payless operate. While the facility is efficient, some passengers have noted that it is located a bit far from the terminals, requiring a shuttle transfer using the People Mover, the automated train that connects the terminals with the rental car area. This free ATS train provides a seamless connection between this facility and all terminals, as well as to the F and Kiss 'n' Fly parking lots and bus services. Although this system is generally reliable, some users report extended wait times during peak hours, which can slow down the vehicle pick-up and drop-off process. Reviews vary significantly depending on the rental company.
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On-Site Car Rental Companies
Listed below are the companies present at the airport:
- Alamo: Praised for its quick check-in process and friendly staff. The vehicles are usually clean and in good condition, contributing to positive experiences. However, some users have reported issues with unclear billing, particularly regarding toll charges.
Tel: +1 844 354 6962 - Hours: 24 hours - Avis: Criticized for not always having the reserved vehicles available and for unexpected additional charges. Passengers mention long lines and delays in service, though some reviews highlight positive customer service experiences.
Tel: +1 773 825 4600 - Hours: 24 hours - Budget: Complaints often focus on extra charges for fuel and unwanted services. Long lines and slow service are frequently mentioned, making the overall experience less efficient.
Tel: +1 800 218 7992 - Hours: 24 hours - Enterprise: Generally well-rated for its friendly staff and efficient pick-up and drop-off process. However, some passengers have noted higher prices due to local taxes.
Tel: +1 855 266 9289 - Hours: 24 hours - Dollar: Has received mixed reviews. Some travelers appreciate the quick and efficient process, while others complain about unexpected charges and unclear costs, particularly regarding fuel and insurance.
Tel: +1 800 800 4000 - Hours: 6:00 am to 12:00 am - Hertz: Praised for easy pick-up and return processes, but some passengers have reported issues with vehicle conditions (damages or lack of maintenance) and additional charges not clearly stated at the time of booking.
Tel: +1 800 654 3131 - Hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 am - National: Well-regarded for its efficiency, especially with the "Emerald Aisle" service, where passengers can choose their own vehicle. The feedback is generally positive, with many noting a fast, hassle-free process.
Tel: +1 800 367 6767 - Hours: 24 hours - Sixt: Sixt is praised for the quality of its vehicles, including luxury models like BMWs, and the friendliness of the staff. However, some users warn about additional charges for minor damages upon return.
Tel: +1 888 749 8227 - Hours: 5:30 am to 12:00 am - Thrifty: User experiences with Thrifty vary. Some passengers report efficient service and good vehicles, while others mention hidden charges for fuel or additional insurance. Nonetheless, many reviews highlight the friendly staff.
Tel: +1 800 847 4389 - Hours: 6:00 am to 12:00 am - Payless: While Payless is located on-site, reviews are mixed. Some passengers praise the quick and efficient service, while others have faced issues with the no-rental-to-locals policy and unexpected charges on their bills.
Tel: +1 800 729 5377 - Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm - Fox Rent a Car: While Fox offers competitive prices, some users report poor customer service and unexpected fees. However, other travelers appreciate the friendly staff and the efficient pick-up process.
Tel: +1 323 593 7485 - Hours: 5:00 am to 12:00 am
Off-Site Car Rental Companies
In addition to the major companies located at the airport's rental facility, O'Hare also has several off-site car rental companies, which often offer lower rates but require a shuttle transfer from the terminals.
- ACE Rent a Car: This company has received both praise and criticism. Users highlight the friendly staff, but some mention hidden fees and prices that increase upon arrival, causing frustration.
Tel: +1 866 551 8267 - Routes Car Rental: While some users praise the friendly shuttle drivers and good customer service, others report long wait times for pick-up and a lack of transparency regarding additional fees, such as tolls and insurance.
Tel: +1 847 671 4000
Traveler Tip:
Booking your rental car in advance is key to avoiding long waits and securing a better rate. Many passengers also recommend carefully reviewing the terms and conditions, especially if traveling outside Illinois, as additional fees may apply. Returning the car with a full tank of gas is advisable, as several users reported unexpected fuel charges despite refueling before drop-off.
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