National Car Rental

- 5175 E Clinton Way, Fresno, CA 93727

For residents and visitors alike navigating the dynamic state of California, having immediate and reliable transportation is often the key to seamless travel. In Fresno, a central hub in the fertile San Joaquin Valley, access to quality car rental services is crucial for everything from quick business trips to extended family vacations. National Car Rental, located conveniently at 5175 E Clinton Way, serves as a prominent option for those seeking a vehicle at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and beyond. This article provides an insightful look into this National Car Rental branch, outlining its services, accessibility, and important aspects for local users to consider.

National Car Rental is a renowned brand in the global car rental industry, often distinguished by its focus on business travelers and its flagship Emerald Club program, which prioritizes speed and choice. The Fresno location at 5175 E Clinton Way, being an airport-based branch, is designed to cater to the fast-paced needs of air travelers as well as the local community. While a global brand, individual branch performance can vary, and understanding the specific dynamics of this Fresno location is key to a smooth rental experience. National aims to provide a diverse fleet and efficient processes, making it a competitive choice for those exploring California's vast offerings.

Location and Accessibility

National Car Rental is situated at 5175 E Clinton Way, Fresno, CA 93727, USA. This address places it directly at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), offering significant convenience for air travelers. The rental counter is typically located within the airport terminal, often near the baggage claim area, allowing for a swift transition from arrival to vehicle pick-up. This "in-terminal" convenience means no lengthy shuttle rides are required, which is a major benefit for those arriving by plane.

For local residents who may be picking up a rental car directly from the airport, the location's proximity to major access roads leading to FAT ensures relatively easy navigation. Customers can follow clear airport signage directing them to the rental car return areas. For after-hours returns, National (often co-located with Enterprise due to shared ownership) typically provides options for secure parking and key drop boxes, such as those near E Andersen and N Ashley Way, offering flexibility for various flight schedules. The direct access to and from the airport streamlines the rental process, making it a practical choice for both incoming visitors and Fresno locals needing a convenient airport-based rental.

Services Offered

• Diverse Vehicle Fleet: National Car Rental typically offers a comprehensive range of vehicles to meet various travel needs. This includes:
  • Economy and Compact Cars (e.g., Mitsubishi Mirage, Nissan Versa): Ideal for fuel efficiency and city driving.
  • Mid-size and Full-size Sedans (e.g., Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Malibu): Providing comfortable options for longer distances.
  • SUVs (e.g., Hyundai Kona, Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet Equinox, Full-size SUVs): Suitable for families, groups, or those needing more cargo space and versatility for California's diverse terrains.
  • Luxury Vehicles (e.g., Nissan Maxima, Audi A4): For a premium driving experience.
  • Pickup Trucks (e.g., Ford F-150): For specific hauling or utility requirements.
• Flexible Rental Durations: Customers can typically choose from daily, weekly, or monthly rental options, accommodating both short-term needs and extended stays in California.
• One-Way Rentals: National often facilitates one-way rentals, allowing customers to pick up a vehicle in Fresno and drop it off at a different National location, useful for cross-state travel plans.
• Emerald Club Program: National's signature loyalty program offers members expedited service, including the ability to bypass the counter (at select locations), choose their own vehicle from the Emerald Aisle (for mid-size or higher reservations), and earn rewards towards free rental days.
• Online Reservations: A robust online platform allows for convenient pre-booking, checking rates, and managing reservations.
• Optional Protections and Add-ons: Various additional options are available, such as Damage Waiver (DW), Extended Protection, GPS navigation, child safety seats, and roadside assistance.
• Refueling Options: Customers typically have choices for fuel payment, including prepaying, allowing National to refuel at a per-gallon service charge, or refilling the tank themselves before return.

Features / Highlights

• Emerald Club Benefits: For frequent renters, especially business travelers, the Emerald Club is a major highlight, offering significant time savings and choice, streamlining the pick-up process.
• Airport Location Convenience: Being directly at FAT means minimal travel time from the plane to the car, which is highly valued by travelers.
• Diverse and Well-Maintained Fleet: National generally provides a range of vehicle types, and while individual experiences vary, a goal is to ensure vehicles are clean and in good working order.

However, it is imperative for potential customers to be aware of the mixed customer feedback regarding this specific National Car Rental location. While some customers report positive experiences, citing "fine from start to finish" pickups and deliveries and "very helpful" staff, other reviews are significantly critical. One customer described it as "by far the worst National Rent a Car in the West Coast" due to "horrible customer service" and excessive staff turnover. Specific incidents mentioned include a 20-minute wait due to a system update at 10:30 PM, leading to customer frustration. These points highlight that while National as a brand aims for high standards, the execution at this particular branch can be inconsistent. It is always recommended to confirm operational details, especially for late-night pickups, and to check on vehicle availability.

Contact Information

Address: 5175 E Clinton Way, Fresno, CA 93727, USA

Phone: (844) 827-2607

Mobile Phone: +1 844-827-2607

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Fresno, California, and those traveling through Fresno Yosemite International Airport, National Car Rental at 5175 E Clinton Way can be a suitable option for their car rental needs, particularly for those who prioritize the convenience of an on-airport location and the benefits of the Emerald Club program. Its direct proximity to FAT significantly reduces travel time and logistical complexities often associated with rental car pickups. The diverse vehicle fleet ensures that whether you need an economy car for a quick city trip or an SUV for a family adventure into California’s natural beauty, a suitable option is likely available.

While some customer experiences indicate potential challenges with service consistency and operational issues (like system outages or staff turnover), the positive feedback suggests that when the process runs smoothly, it is highly efficient. For locals, especially frequent travelers or those with Emerald Club membership, the expedited service can be a major advantage. It is advisable to utilize online booking, confirm any specific requirements or policies, and consider the time of pick-up to minimize potential inconveniences. Despite some mixed reviews, National Car Rental at FAT remains a competitive choice for those seeking a broad selection of vehicles and the convenience of an airport location for their California travels.

National Car Rental

5175 E Clinton Way, Fresno, CA 93727, USA