Car Rental Caution

Christopher Reynolds’ article about car rental rates and the ages of the cars (Travel Insider, July 18) was right to the point. However, I have some other points to add. There are all kinds of discounts out there that can reduce your costs, from your AAA membership to your Visa card. In my last Visa statement there was a coupon for 20% off National’s lowest weekend rate. I used it on my last trip.

Be sure that when you are quoted a rate, you get a corresponding confirmation number. In Albuquerque several weeks ago, I rented a mid-size Plymouth Breeze with only 39 miles on it. When we started out, I noticed that the car would not accelerate. I called National and was able to return the car. But when my statement arrived, I was overcharged by $156. The error was corrected only because I had the original confirmation number. New cars or old cars, you have to be ever vigilant.

LEONARD M. SMALL

Oceanside