Thrifty Car Rental - Mesa Gateway Ap Introduce
For travelers arriving in Arizona's rapidly growing East Valley, or for local residents needing a temporary vehicle, Thrifty Car Rental at Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) stands as a key gateway to transportation freedom. Situated directly at the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, this location caters primarily to air travelers but remains a vital resource for the entire Mesa, Gilbert, and Queen Creek community. As a nationally recognized Car Rental Agency, Thrifty provides the essential link between stepping off a flight and beginning your Arizona adventure, whether that means a business trip in the Greater Phoenix area or a family vacation to the state’s many natural wonders.
The core offering is a diverse fleet of vehicles—ranging from fuel-efficient economy cars like the Chevrolet Spark to spacious SUVs and comfortable sedans. However, recent trends and customer feedback suggest the inclusion of newer technologies, particularly Electric Vehicles (EVs), within their 'Wild Card' or general fleet offerings. While the introduction of EVs demonstrates a commitment to modern and sustainable transport, customers should be aware of the unique learning curve and infrastructure challenges associated with charging in the Arizona heat, as some users have reported unexpected difficulties and subsequent high fuel/recharge fees when returning these specialized vehicles without sufficient charge.
Operating directly out of the airport means the agency provides extended hours to align with flight schedules, a major convenience for those arriving late or departing early. They also accommodate a variety of payment methods, including both major credit cards and debit cards (subject to strict policies), enhancing accessibility for a wider customer base in the East Valley. The overall tone of service is aimed at being professional and efficient, though potential renters should factor in reported counter wait times, which can sometimes be long due to staffing levels, especially during peak travel periods at the airport.
The Thrifty Car Rental office is conveniently located on-site at the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA). Its physical address is 6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA. This placement makes it highly accessible for anyone flying into the East Valley, providing a seamless transition from plane to pavement. Customers can typically find the rental counter within the terminal area or a very short distance away, eliminating the need for long off-site shuttle rides.
A critical feature of this airport location is its accessibility for all travelers. The facility includes a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance, ensuring a smooth entry and exit process for individuals with mobility challenges. Furthermore, Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot spaces are provided, offering convenience and compliance. For general customers, the inclusion of On-site Parking, whether for the rental fleet itself or for short-term customer transactions, adds a layer of ease. Because it's an airport location, the operating hours are generally extensive, often running from early morning until late evening, seven days a week, to cover all major flight arrivals and departures at AZA. Renters are encouraged to verify the specific hours of operation for their rental day to avoid complications with pickup or return.
As a major Car Rental Agency at a key regional airport, Thrifty offers a comprehensive range of services and vehicle options to facilitate travel throughout Arizona:
- Comprehensive Vehicle Fleet: Providing a full spectrum of vehicles from economical compact cars for budget-conscious travelers to mid-size sedans, standard SUVs (like the Nissan Rogue or Hyundai Santa Fe), and minivans. Specialty vehicles, including convertibles, are also typically available seasonally.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Rentals: Integrating modern vehicles, such as the Tesla Model 3 or similar EVs, into the fleet, often under the 'Wild Card' or 'Supplier's Choice' booking option, catering to tech-savvy customers or those seeking eco-friendly transport (note: renters should familiarize themselves with the charging process and policies).
- Flexible Payment Options: Acceptance of all major Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.), and importantly, acceptance of Debit Cards for qualification and payment at airport locations. Debit card usage typically requires stringent documentation, including proof of a return travel ticket and two valid forms of identification, in addition to a credit check and a higher incremental hold ($500 for debit vs. $200 for credit) on funds.
- Advanced Booking Options: Utilizing an online reservation system that allows for prepaid or pay-later options, though 'Pay Now' rentals may require a major credit card at the counter. The Blue Chip Express service offers expedited counter service for members.
- Additional Travel Amenities: Offering optional add-ons such as GPS navigation systems, child car seats, liability protection, and Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) to customize the rental experience for safety and convenience.
- Roadside Assistance: All vehicles are covered with national roadside assistance, a crucial service when traveling across the extensive highways and sometimes remote areas of Arizona.
The key features of choosing Thrifty at the Mesa Gateway Airport location are focused on airport convenience and vehicle selection:
- Direct Airport Access: Its location at AZA allows for immediate pickup and drop-off, saving travelers significant time and eliminating external transfer fees, which is a major benefit for those flying in.
- High Vehicle Variety: The ability to select from a wide array of vehicle classes, including the most current models of economy, sedan, and SUV, ensures that customers can match their vehicle to Arizona's varied terrain and travel needs.
- Technological Fleet Inclusion: The availability of newer Electric Vehicles, though a point of operational learning for some customers, provides an opportunity to drive modern technology and potentially save on fuel costs.
- Open Payment Policy: The acceptance of Debit Cards for rental qualification (under specific terms) is a significant feature, broadening the market access for local Arizonans and visitors who prefer or require using a debit card over a credit card.
- Full Physical Accessibility: The provision of a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance and Parking Lot ensures that the service is welcoming and accommodating to all travelers arriving at the airport.
For reservations, inquiries about the vehicle fleet (especially the availability and policies regarding EVs), or questions regarding the strict debit card requirements, customers are advised to contact the Mesa Gateway Airport branch directly.
Address: 6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Phone: (480) 988-2763
The mobile phone contact, +1 480-988-2763, confirms the direct line to the agency, which is essential for timely communication regarding flight delays or late returns. Given the customer reports of long wait times and difficulties reaching a representative via general phone lines, contacting this local number for immediate airport service or specific issues is highly recommended.
Thrifty Car Rental at Mesa Gateway Airport is definitively worth choosing for AZA airport travelers seeking immediate, on-site transportation without the hassle of off-site shuttles. It's also an excellent option for those who are prepared to meet the detailed requirements for using a Debit Card to secure their rental. The breadth of their fleet, from basic economy to SUVs, offers solid value and selection.
However, potential renters must choose Thrifty with an awareness of the operational challenges noted in customer feedback. If you book a 'Wild Card' vehicle, be prepared for a newer technology like an EV and research the charging infrastructure in your travel area, as unexpected fees can apply if the vehicle is not returned with a sufficient charge. While customer service wait times can be a concern, the convenience of the location, the variety of the vehicles, and the ability to begin your drive immediately upon landing in the East Valley make Thrifty a competitive and worthwhile option, provided you confirm all terms and policies, especially those pertaining to non-traditional vehicles and payment methods, before finalizing your reservation.
Thrifty Car Rental - Mesa Gateway Ap Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Parking
- On-site parking
Thrifty Car Rental - Mesa Gateway Ap Photos
Thrifty Car Rental - Mesa Gateway Ap Location
Thrifty Car Rental - Mesa Gateway Ap
6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Thrifty Car Rental - Mesa Gateway Ap Reviews
charging stationteslachoseprice
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I rented through expedia and chose the deal Thrifty had. I had selected the “wild card” rental but was given a Tesla without one helpful tip as to how to deal with unlocking, driving, charging this newer technology. This was an inappropriate placement for someone on a business trip with very little time to spare to deal with charging the vehicle. I was unsuccessful with charging the car, despite locating a Tesla compatible charging station and downloading the app while standing outside, in 100 degree heat. Therefore, I went up to the customer service desk when I returned the car (the next day… two days early on a three day rental). The wait at return was 15-20 minutes because the one clerk was performing tasks elsewhere. Why don't they have two representatives? Thrifty charged me more than 50 cents per mile (41 miles for $22.45). They chose not to accommodate my request to waive the charging fee despite being able to validate that I did attempt to charge the car. The wait time at counter was unreasonably long at both pick up and check in. This seemed to be due to Thrifty staffing the desk with only one representative for both check in and check out. His manager would not talk with me when the desk rep called him. Instead he made the choice to put his corporate overlords ahead of a reasonable request from a customer. This was my absolute worst car rental experience.
September 22 · Ginger -I waited an hour in line only to find out that they did not have the car I reserved. They told me the only vehicle available was an EV. I thought that it wouldn't be the end of the world. Everything was fine until I went to charge it. I do not own an EV and have never rented one. All of my friends that have an EV tell me charging is no big deal. I spent two hours trying to find the right charger. The app I was using wasn't accurate. I finally plug into the charging station and it tells me that the charge will be done in 9 hours. I give up on that and try a Tesla Super Charger. I don't have the right adapter so the plug won't work. I find a Cheverolet dealership and they tell me that there is not a solution. I tried calling Thrifty and choose every option and am not able to talk to an actual person. I even tried the roadside assistance. I waited on hold for 30 minutes and gave up. I returned the car having used 30% of the charge. One day later I recieved a fuel charge of $125. I would avoid using Thrifty if I were you.
February 19 · Daniel TerryThe car return is just across the baggage claim building of the airport. If Google tells you the office is anywhere other than INSIDE the airport, don't listen. We got turned around but that's Google's deal, not Thrifty's. Due to how small the terminal is, there is only a need for 1 person manning the counter. They could be called if they are away, however. Our counter clerk, Dre, came back (probably trying to grab lunch, poor guy) and took care of us promptly with a great attitude! Appreciate that service, dude! Thank you!
November 02 · Kimberly MontgomeryMystery car/Manager special warning: this is a 15 passenger commercial sized van! Absolutely ridiculous! This should not even be an option... It's a specialty vehicle. Not practical for 99% of customers. Super annoying. It should be very clear when reserving that this is a possible "car". TERRIBLE.
February 14 · M. W.
More Car Rental Near Me
Hertz Car Rental - Mesa - Phoenix-mesa Gateway Airport (AZA)2.0 (222 reviews)6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Enterprise Rent-A-Car4.0 (366 reviews)6033 S Sossaman Rd Ste 104, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
National Car Rental4.0 (163 reviews)6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Alamo Rent A Car4.0 (639 reviews)6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Avis Car Rental3.0 (68 reviews)6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Budget Car Rental2.0 (25 reviews)6033 S Sossaman Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Libre Car Rentals5.0 (24 reviews)8213 E Posada Ave, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA
Enterprise Rent-A-Car4.0 (546 reviews)18631 E Business Park Dr Ste 102, Queen Creek, AZ 85142, USA
Avis Car Rental3.0 (35 reviews)6650 E Superstition Springs Blvd, Mesa, AZ 85206, USA
Budget Car Rental3.0 (132 reviews)6650 E Superstition Springs Blvd, Mesa, AZ 85206, USA
Budget Car Rental3.0 (30 reviews)6650 E Superstition Springs Blvd Ste 111, Mesa, AZ 85206, USA
Avis Car Rental4.0 (105 reviews)6322 E Superstition Springs Blvd #111, Mesa, AZ 85206, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites
Enterprise Rent-A-Car4.0 (495 reviews)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car4.0 (243 reviews)
Mobilis Car Rental0.0 (0 reviews)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car4.0 (177 reviews)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car4.0 (116 reviews)
National Car Rental3.0 (6 reviews)Trending Car Rental Blog Posts
What Rental Car Companies Don’t Tell You About Insurance Coverage
How to Choose the Best Rental Car for a Ski Resort Vacation in the U.S.
Renting a Car for a Road Trip: Best Routes, Vehicle Picks & Packing Tips | Lifestarcarrentalmn.com
How to Rent a Car as a Young Driver in the U.S.: Age Restrictions & Cost Tips
How to Choose the Best Rental Car Based on Your Itinerary Length & Driving Distance
What Every Traveler Should Know About Vehicle Type Upgrades