Detroit Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Detroit

Renting a car in Detroit offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Henry Ford Museum, where you can delve into history, or the GM Renaissance Center, a striking skyscraper that showcases the city's modern side. Hart Plaza, a modern square, is also easily accessible by car, allowing you to immerse yourself in the urban atmosphere.

A rental car is particularly beneficial for families and couples seeking memorable experiences, providing ample space for luggage and making it easier to manage travel plans. You can easily navigate to popular destinations like Downtown Detroit, which features the Motown Museum, or venture to Southfield to explore the Detroit Institute of Arts. If you're interested in history, a drive to Dearborn will take you to the Henry Ford Museum, Hart Plaza, and Greenfield Village. With so much to see and do, renting a car ensures you maximize your time in and around Detroit without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Detroit

• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this popular choice accommodates 5 travellers comfortably along with up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV offers ample space for luggage and ensures everyone can travel together while enjoying the freedom to explore Detroit and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a balance of space and comfort, allowing you to navigate the city and venture out to nearby attractions with ease, making it a versatile choice for your car rental needs.
• Fullsize: A great option for families and groups, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travellers with the flexibility to carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle is perfect for those who need extra room for their belongings while exploring Detroit, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone on board.

Top rated car suppliers in Detroit

• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts an impressive 25 rental locations throughout the Detroit area, providing ample convenience for travellers. Known for its exceptional customer service, many patrons appreciate the helpful staff and efficient check-in processes. The most popular choices among renters are the Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which offer a comfortable ride for exploring the city and beyond. With its wide selection and focus on customer satisfaction, Enterprise is a reliable option for your car rental needs in Detroit.
• Budget: With 10 rental locations in Detroit, Budget makes it easy for travellers to access their services. The company is well-regarded for its affordability and competitive pricing. Customers frequently select Midsize and Standard SUVs, ideal for both city driving and longer trips. Budget's commitment to providing value without compromising on quality makes it a popular choice among those looking to explore the Detroit area.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car operates a single rental location in Detroit, offering a streamlined experience for those who prefer simplicity. The most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which are both practical choices for navigating the city. Alamo is recognized for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a pleasant rental experience for travellers. If you value convenience and reliability, Alamo is a solid option while visiting Detroit.

Where to stay in Detroit

• Downtown Detroit: A vibrant neighbourhood ideal for romantic getaways, family trips, and city-themed experiences. Downtown Detroit boasts popular attractions such as the GM Renaissance Center, Hart Plaza, and the Motown Museum, all within close proximity. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dining options, including restaurants and pubs, making it a bustling area for entertainment and culture.
• Romulus: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and romantic settings, Romulus offers a unique blend of education and entertainment. Key highlights include the Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, making it a great spot for culture enthusiasts. With nearby wineries and restaurants, Romulus provides a delightful culinary experience for travellers.
• Southfield: This city is perfect for families and couples alike, featuring a dynamic mix of shopping, education, and theatre. Notable attractions in Southfield include the Motown Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Detroit Golf Club. With an array of nearby dining options, including restaurants and wineries, Southfield is an inviting location for those looking to explore arts and culture.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Detroit

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. Booking early often leads to lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unforeseen expenses and provide peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on lengthy road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Detroit

The best value period to rent a car in and around Detroit is December, when prices are slightly low and demand stays average. January and February also offer decent rates with slightly low demand, making them good options for rentals. However, from June through August, prices tend to be slightly high, and demand peaks, especially in August. This makes those summer months the most expensive time to rent a car in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low