THRIFTY-SANI CAR RENTAL IN SOUTH AFRICA IS NOT PAYING BACK REFUNDS - TANTAMOUNT TO THEFT

BEWARE OF THRIFTY-SANI CAR RENTAL IN SOUTH AFRICA I was recently on holiday in South Africa (January 2022) and hired a car from Thrifty-Sani at Lanseria airport (Johannesburg) on 19/01/22 and initially requested to have the vehicle for 7 days. The staff member who served me at Lanseria was very polite and professional.

Thrifty required upfront payment of the full amount for 7 days plus a deposit to cover insurance excess. However, due to my unhappiness with the vehicle concerned, I decided to change my travel plans and returned the vehicle to OR Tambo Airport (also Johannesburg) just one day later. Honestly the staff at OR Tambo were also polite and professional so no problems there. However, when returning the vehicle, I was informed that the refund would take 7-14 business days to be in my account. Honestly, 14 business days is tantamount to theft if you ask me but would you believe that Thrifty still owes me over R9000 (about A$870) more than 5 weeks later.

My advice to car renters is to be aware of this practice by Thrifty-Sani Car Rental and gain clarity on their policies regarding repayment of deposits and any outstanding moneys owed prior to payments. In addition, consider hiring for a shorter period (and you’ll pay less) even if you intend to keep the vehicle for longer, as you can extend the rental.