Budget Car Rental

- blks W of West Town Mall, 8014 Kingston Pike #2, Knoxville, TN 37919

This location aims to deliver on Budget’s promise of smart value, providing a wide array of vehicle classes including economy cars, full-size sedans, SUVs, and specialized vans, such as 12- and 15-passenger vans, for moving people or cargo. Its dedicated presence on a major Knoxville thoroughfare—Kingston Pike—makes it an easy and straightforward destination for local pick-ups and returns. The facility is equipped to handle modern payment methods, including NFC mobile payments, and upholds corporate accessibility standards.

However, potential Tennessee renters should enter the process with caution. Customer feedback repeatedly indicates that operational issues—specifically related to staff capacity, vehicle quality, and availability—can significantly impact the customer experience. Customers have reported lengthy wait times due to understaffing, being provided with vehicles that were not clean or had noticeable damage, and, critically, reservations (even those made weeks in advance) not being honored due to a lack of available vehicles. Thorough pre-planning and confirmation are highly advised when utilizing this branch.

The official address for this neighborhood branch is:

8014 Kingston Pike #2, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA

The office is situated just two blocks west of the popular West Town Mall and across from the Suburban Shopping Center, ensuring simple navigation and convenient access from surrounding areas. The operating hours generally include an early start on weekdays and shorter hours on weekends, making it suitable for early-morning pickups before a long trip. Specifically, the typical hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It is essential to confirm these times, as late arrival can result in major complications.

In line with corporate policy, the facility is designed to be fully accessible. This includes a clear, wheelchair accessible entrance and designated wheelchair accessible parking lot spaces. This ensures that all customers, regardless of mobility needs, can easily access the rental counter and begin their journey.

The core services available at the Kingston Pike location include:

• Comprehensive Car Rental: A selection spanning all standard vehicle classes, from economical compact cars for budget-conscious trips to intermediate and full-size sedans for comfort on longer drives across Tennessee.
• Specialty Vehicle Rental: Offering a variety of SUVs (including intermediate and full-size models), minivans, and even luxury and performance models for special occasions.
• Dedicated Van Rental Agency Services: Providing various sizes of vans, which are critical for large group transportation or moving cargo. This often includes 12- and 15-passenger vans.
• Flexible Payment Options: Accepting all major credit cards and debit cards for payment. Customers should be aware that renting with a debit card may involve additional requirements, checks, or a higher security deposit.
• NFC Mobile Payments: Supporting contactless transactions through services like Apple Pay and Google Pay for quick, modern processing at the counter.
• Local Pickup Service: Offering a free pick-up service, allowing local customers to call the branch directly to arrange transportation from their home or office to the rental counter.

Key highlights and value-added features for this branch are:

• Active Military Discounts: The agency offers special pricing and discounts to active military personnel, showing appreciation for service and providing added value to military families in East Tennessee.
• Neighborhood Convenience: Its non-airport location is highly convenient for local renters needing quick access without navigating the higher prices or congestion typical of airport facilities.
• Wheelchair Accessible Facilities: The commitment to accessibility is confirmed with both a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring a comfortable visit for all customers.
• Fastbreak Service: For repeat customers, the Fastbreak program is designed to expedite the rental process, potentially reducing the lengthy counter waits that other reviewers have noted.
• Variety of Fleet Options: The dual designation as a Car Rental and Van Rental agency ensures a greater diversity of available vehicles, especially for those needing larger passenger vans that are often difficult to find.

Address: 8014 Kingston Pike #2, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA (Located two blocks west of West Town Mall)

Phone: (865) 531-2198

Mobile Phone: +1 865-531-2198

However, to ensure a positive experience, prospective renters must be highly diligent, especially given the consistent customer feedback regarding service and vehicle supply issues:

• Confirm Availability Relentlessly: Do not rely solely on the booking confirmation. As experienced by other customers, reservations made weeks in advance are not guaranteed. Call the Monday before your trip to verify the exact vehicle's presence. Have a backup plan, as a lack of inventory may leave you stranded, especially during holiday weekends.
• Expect Long Waits: Due to reported understaffing (often only one person working the desk), anticipate significant delays during both pickup and return, regardless of having completed an online check-in. Build an extra hour into your travel plans.
• Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly: Do not accept the keys without inspecting the car for cleanliness and damage. Customers have been presented with heavily scratched and smoke-filled vehicles, despite the company's "smoke free fleet" statement. Insist on a suitable replacement if the initial car is substandard, and document all pre-existing damage with photos or video before you drive off.
• Understand After-Hours Returns: Be aware of the strict return policy. If you return after business hours, you may be fully responsible for the vehicle until the next business day, including any theft or damage that occurs overnight.

Budget Car Rental

blks W of West Town Mall, 8014 Kingston Pike #2, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA