Jacqueline Chenier [Staff]
I flew into St. Anthony and rented a car, which upon leaving parking lot, the "change oil" sign light up. I immediately turned around to express my concern and ask for a new vehicle. I was told that the car had about 5% oil left and was ok to drive. I told him it wasn't. I intended on traveling about 1000 kms. He said it was good for about 1000 km, however "if I didn't feel comfortable with that he would give me another car." Of course...who would want to drive in a remote area stressed that the car was going to break down. I received a new rental.
When I returned home, I called the company hoping to speak to the manager to express my concern about a vehicle being rented with only 5% oil left. The lady on phone said that the manager was in a meeting but she would take my complaint. As I told her my story, she continued to make excuses. I eventually had to ask her to quit saying "but" because she was making my concerns and feelings invalid. I told her in the end, before the car was ready to be rented out the oil should have been checked and topped up..what kind of car rental company rents out vehicles with such a small amount of oil in it? Especially in such a remote area?
Long and short...this is the only car rental company at this airport. It is obvious that they do not care about the safety of their customers. Make it a point to not only check your vehicle before obvious damage upon leaving the lot ie: chips in windshield etc...but ensure that the car will safely get you through your road trip.