Beware of CDW & fuel charges!

First, let me start with the positives. I read reviews that said that they rent old heaps. I booked through a package and I got a full size, four door diesel sedan. Yes, it had 70K km on the odometer, but it was in good shape and diesel cars last forever. It was more than adequate for four adults and luggage, and I got 45 mpg with it. At rental, they specified a "large" dent in the rear bumper. When I looked, it was barely noticeable. They promised a walk around of the car prior to drive away, but they didn't do that.

But, their customer service people on both ends were not friendly and helpful. At check out, the girl was just matter of fact and mechanical in what she did. When she stated she saw no info on CDW insurance, I showed her a letter of coverage from my World Mastercard that covered Ireland (most cards don't provide this). She didn't pressure me. But, they "pre-charged" me Euro 130 for a full tank of gas. Warning: if you decline CDW, they charge you a Euro 25 "administrative fee." I only got Euro 105 back at the end. Also: you can fill these cars for about Euro 80, so the Euro 130 is a complete rip off, and how they can add VAT to the fee, I'll never know! At the end, they didn't ask anything about how the rental was. All they were interested in was the receipt from the toll I paid.

They will also state that they will put a Eur 3000 hold on your credit card if you decline CDW. I knew this is advance and said "fine." I don't think they did it. It's just a scare tactic to get you to take the rip-off CDW.

I booked through a tour operator and had no choice. I won't use Dan Dooley on my own. I think their business model is built on rip off the stupid rich American tourist.