Extremely Disappointing Experience

I had a very poor experience with Tempest Car Hire (Rosebank branch) that nearly ruined my family’s Christmas.

I booked a Category C sedan on Monday, 22 December via their website for collection from 24–27 December, as I was travelling with my family and needed a suitable vehicle.

On 24 December, just three hours before collection, I was told the vehicle I booked was no longer available and was offered a VW Polo instead — a clear downgrade and completely unsuitable for family travel. When I pushed back, I was told the issue would be escalated.

I was then suddenly informed that I was a first-time renter, something that apparently hadn’t been checked when I made the booking days earlier. I was asked to submit excessive documentation, including three months’ bank statements, which felt unreasonable for a short-term car rental. After submitting everything requested, I received a call minutes later saying I did not qualify to rent a vehicle at all.

This all happened on Christmas Eve, leaving my family without transport due to Tempest’s lack of planning, poor internal checks, and last-minute decision-making.

Thankfully, BLUU Car Rental came to the rescue. I booked online immediately, made payment, and within 2.5 hours collected a vehicle from their Randburg branch. The staff were friendly, professional, and even upgraded my car at no extra cost. The contrast in service was night and day.

Tempest’s handling of this booking showed a complete lack of customer care and operational discipline. I will never use Tempest Car Hire again and would strongly advise others to think twice, especially during peak periods.