Do car rental companies install GPS units in cars so they always know the cars location?

Question

Do car rental companies install GPS units in cars so they always know the cars location?

Answer 1

Some do, like Avis.

Answer 2

I am pretty sure Avis use to and not sure what they are doing now. I would think most do since if you rent a vehicle lets say in California and you drive it across the boarder to Mexico when you shouldn't and get in trouble and lose the car, you can't claim that it was stolen in the U.S. Or for those cars that are taken out of state when they are for local use.

The current OnStar can already track the vehicle and it is included in most of the Cad from Avis so I would say the answer is yes, big brother is looking out for their best interest and yours if you get stuck and can't find help!

Answer 3

Some do.    Zipcars have GPS that is used to locate the car.  I can see the antenna.  

At the end of the rental, the on-line system tells me how far I've driven the car.

Answer 4

most don't.  They really don't have the time to be keeping tabs on each and every car.

Some small car company tried that (here in NYC) as sort of Gotcha charges.  But it got so much negative press even they stopped it.

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In some locations (like in Hawaii), where people often take street cars off road (like beach, etc.) sometimes they will install a GPS.  But in general, they don't.

Good Luck...

Answer 5

most do yes