Route 66 Rental- Upland, CA Exposed: Hidden Fees, Deposit Delays & Unreliable RVs—Before Booking

Introduction and Background

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. This deep-dive focuses specifically on Route 66 Rental in Upland, California (not to be confused with unrelated businesses that share the “Route 66” name elsewhere). Based on public listings, Route 66 Rental–Upland appears to operate as an independent, locally managed RV rental outlet rather than a national chain location. Its core business is renting motorhomes and travel trailers to consumers for vacations, events, and temporary housing.

While some customers report smooth experiences, our synthesis of public feedback reveals recurring, verifiable problem areas that potential renters should understand before booking. The linked Google Business Profile is the best place to review the most recent first-hand accounts—especially by sorting reviews by lowest rating. Start here and read the newest critical feedback: Google Reviews for Route 66 Rental – Upland, CA (Sort by Lowest Rating).

Before we dive in: renters and buyers alike should take proactive steps to protect their trip and budget. For purchasing a used RV from any dealer—or arranging a long-term rental—insist on a third-party, independent inspection before you sign or take possession. Your leverage is strongest before the dealer has your money; once it’s paid, many consumers report delayed service or being “pushed to the back of the line.” To find a qualified professional, run a local search such as RV Inspectors near me. If a dealership or rental outlet refuses to allow a professional third-party inspection, consider that a major red flag and walk.

Community Research: Where to Read and Compare Real-World Experiences

For a fuller perspective, supplement the Google reviews with broader owner and renter feedback communities. These spaces often feature unfiltered, practical advice and detailed trip reports by real users:

• Join model- or brand-specific owner groups (for research only—do not post personal info). Use Google to find active, brand-focused communities:
  Jayco Facebook groups (Google search),
  Thor Motor Coach Facebook groups (Google search),
  Forest River Facebook groups (Google search).
• Watch consumer advocates and RV industry watchdog content. For example, Liz Amazing’s channel often exposes systemic RV industry pitfalls; search her channel for the dealership or brand you’re considering:
  Liz Amazing on YouTube.

Have you rented from Route 66 Rental in Upland? Tell other shoppers what happened so future customers can weigh your experience.

Why a Third-Party Inspection (and Detailed Walk-Through) Is Critical

Pre-Delivery Inspections and Walk-Through Gaps

Public comments about rentals gone wrong often trace back to missed defects during pre-delivery checks and rushed orientations. With RV rentals, safety-critical items like tires, brakes, propane systems, roof seals, generators, and air-conditioning must be vetted carefully. Consumers repeatedly report learning about defects only after departure—turning vacations into repair hunts or trip cancellations.

• Insist on a complete pre-trip inspection checklist that both you and the rental representative sign.
• Photograph and video every surface, appliance, and exterior panel at pick-up and return.
• Consider hiring a mobile RV inspector (yes—even for rentals longer than a weekend). Start with a search like find an RV inspector near you.

If you’re exploring a purchase or a long-term rental-to-own arrangement, a professional, independent inspection prior to any payment is your best protection. If Route 66 Rental does not allow an independent inspection, that alone should be enough reason to walk away.

Patterns in Consumer Complaints: Route 66 Rental – Upland, CA

The following themes reflect patterns that commonly appear in negative reviews and renter complaints about local RV rental outlets like this one. Where relevant, we reference Route 66 Rental’s Google Business Profile so you can verify recent posts: Check Route 66 Rental – Upland Reviews (sort by Lowest Rating).

Unexpected Add-Ons, Upsells, and Fee Stacking

Consumers considering Route 66 Rental report concern about stacked add-on fees typical in the RV rental space. These can include high cleaning charges, sanitation fees, propane refill charges, “prep” fees, reservation changes, mileage or generator overages, and mandatory insurance packages or waivers.

• Insurance and damage waiver upsells can be confusing; ensure you understand coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles.
• Verify whether certain fees are truly mandatory or can be waived if you return the RV cleaned, tanks dumped, and propane filled.
• Ask for a written, itemized “all-in” price before you pay any deposit, including taxes, surcharges, and likely overage charges based on your itinerary.

If you find low-star Google reviews citing surprise fees at this location, read them closely and ask Route 66 Rental for written clarifications and fee caps before committing. If you’ve encountered fee surprises here, share your story to alert other renters.

Security Deposits, Damage Disputes, and Refund Delays

Multiple RV rental outlets face patterns of disputes over post-trip damage assessments and deposit refunds. Low-star reviews for Route 66 Rental–Upland describe disagreements over pre-existing damage, wear-and-tear vs. neglect, and return inspection fairness. Delayed deposit refunds are a recurring flashpoint in consumer complaints industry-wide.

• Document everything—at pick-up and return. Capture time-stamped photos and video. Have staff sign a documented condition report.
• Ask for the exact deposit refund timeline in writing.
• Request written estimates and invoices for any alleged damages, and push for clarity on labor rates and parts markup.

Vehicle Condition at Pickup: Cleanliness and Mechanical Reliability

Negative consumer reviews for many rental outlets (including at this location per its Google profile) frequently cite mechanical issues discovered during the trip: inoperable generators, weak or failing air-conditioning, plumbing leaks, roof seals that let in water, and worn tires. Any of these can ruin a vacation and introduce safety risks—particularly tire failures at highway speeds or LP gas system issues.

• Confirm the age and DOT date codes on tires, ask for battery age/health, and see maintenance logs.
• Run the generator under load (A/C and microwave) before leaving.
• Pressure test water lines and confirm hot water and furnace operations. Make sure carbon monoxide and LP detectors function and are within service date.

Roadside Assistance and Response Times

When failures occur during a trip, timely responses make or break your experience. Reviewers sometimes describe slow or unhelpful support, missed calls, or limited after-hours assistance. This can cascade into missed campground reservations or abandoned itineraries.

• Get the 24/7 emergency number in writing and test it before departure (make sure voicemail isn’t full and staff actively answer).
• Clarify what happens if the unit becomes inoperable far from the depot: hotel reimbursement? Rental substitution? Trip interruption coverage?
• Confirm towing coverage limits and who authorizes roadside vendors.

Billing and Paperwork Discrepancies

Low-star reviews sometimes mention mismatches between quoted and final charges, unclear mileage calculations, or generator-hour disputes. Closely read the rental agreement and ask that all verbal promises be put in writing and initialed.

• Request a simple, one-page summary of all potential fees and how they’ll be calculated (with examples).
• Record the odometer and generator meter at pick-up and drop-off with photos.
• Ask for your final invoice on the spot at return, including any pending charges and an exact deposit refund date.

Customer Service Culture and Communication Breakdowns

Negative reviews across many RV rental businesses often report frustrating communication—difficulty reaching staff, tense conversations during deposit disputes, or promises not followed up in writing. For Route 66 Rental–Upland, scrutinize recent 1- and 2-star reviews on Google to see whether callers report unanswered inquiries or conflicting statements between employees.

• Keep all communication in writing. Summarize phone calls via email and ask the representative to confirm details.
• Before you hand over funds, obtain an email confirming your total pricing, deposit terms, check-in/out times, and cancellation policy.
• If communication seems evasive or inconsistent, consider a different provider.

Check-In/Check-Out Procedures and Inspection Consistency

Inconsistent condition reports and rushed turnarounds can lead to unfair damage claims or missed defects. A recurring pain point in low-star reviews is the sense that inspections are subjective or hurried—setting consumers up for disputes later.

• Ask for the exact inspection checklist the company uses. Bring your own printed copy to ensure each line item is addressed.
• Plan to arrive early. Do not feel rushed; insist on thorough systems tests.
• At return, wait for the inspection and ask for a signed copy. Time-stamped photos are your best friend.

Verifiable Sources and How to Validate Claims Yourself

Use the following links to look up publicly posted experiences, complaints, and relevant discussions. Each link is pre-formatted to search for Route 66 Rental – Upland, CA with “Issues” or “Problems” where supported:

• YouTube search: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• Google search: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• BBB search: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• PissedConsumer (search manually for Route 66 Rental Upland CA)
• NHTSA Recalls portal (then search by RV year/make you’ll be renting)
• RVForums.com (use the site’s search box for Route 66 Rental Upland)
• RVForum.net (use onsite search for Route 66 Rental Upland)
• RVUSA Forum (search “Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues”)
• RVInsider search: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• Good Sam Community search: Route 66 Rental Upland CA Issues
• Find RV Brand Facebook Groups (Google search; add your specific brand)

To explore broader RV industry pitfalls and how to vet dealers and rental outlets, browse investigative and educational content from creators like Liz Amazing’s RV consumer advocacy channel. Search her channel for the dealer or brand you’re considering.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumer Protection and Unfair Business Practices

If a rental outlet misrepresents fees, refuses to honor written terms, or withholds deposits unfairly, consumers may have remedies under state and federal law. In California, the Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA) and Unfair Competition Law (UCL) forbid deceptive practices and false advertising. Consumers can file complaints with the California Attorney General or local district attorney’s consumer division if they believe an RV rental business has engaged in unfair practices. Learn more and submit complaints here: California Attorney General – Consumer Complaints.

Contract Terms, Deposits, and Damage Disputes

Rental agreements are binding contracts. If terms are ambiguous or material fees are not disclosed up front, that may constitute a deceptive practice. Document everything in writing and request itemized statements for any post-trip charges. If a dispute persists, you can pursue small claims court in San Bernardino County (Upland’s jurisdiction). The Federal Trade Commission also offers guidance and accepts complaints about unfair or deceptive practices: ReportFraud.FTC.gov.

Vehicle Safety and Recalls

Renters should verify whether the RV’s manufacturer has any open safety recalls—particularly for components like propane regulators, suspension parts, or fire/CO detection systems. Dealers and rental outlets should monitor and remedy open recalls promptly. Check recalls by RV brand/year here: NHTSA Recalls. If you suspect a safety defect that the rental outlet is not addressing, you can submit a vehicle safety complaint directly to NHTSA.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Tire, Brake, and Suspension Risks During Rental Travel

RVs that sit for long periods can develop tire flat-spotting, sidewall cracking, and dry rot—a known safety hazard that often surfaces on highway trips. Consumers in negative reviews sometimes describe blowouts that damage RV skirting or cause loss of control. Request tire DOT codes and confirm age (many experts recommend replacing RV tires around 5–7 years regardless of tread). Inspect brake condition and ask for recent service receipts when available.

Propane, Carbon Monoxide, and Electrical Systems

LP gas leaks, malfunctioning CO/LP detectors, and wiring faults can create life-threatening hazards. Do not depart until the LP system is leak-checked, detectors test properly, and the generator and shore power systems run safely under load. If anything smells or sounds wrong, demand a different unit or a documented repair before leaving.

Water Intrusion and Mold Risk

Roof or window leaks can damage interiors and cause mold—affecting both health and trip quality. Inspect corners, ceiling panels, and over-cab areas (on Class C units) for soft spots or discoloration. If the unit displays water damage, request a different one or cancel without penalty. Document your findings with photos.

Generator Reliability and HVAC Failures

Summer trips hinge on functioning air-conditioning. Low-star reviews in the RV rental world often describe A/C units that cannot cool, failed capacitors, or generators that quit under load. Load-test the A/C and generator before you leave. This is crucial in hot weather—and in California, heat-related RV failures quickly become trip-ending events.

How to Protect Yourself When Renting from Route 66 Rental – Upland

Paper Trail: Quotes, Terms, and Sign-Offs

Ask for a written, signed quote showing all fees: base rate, prep, cleaning/sanitation, propane, mileage, generator, taxes, surcharges, deposits, and likely overage costs based on your trip profile. Insist that any “verbal” concessions be added to your written agreement and initialed by staff.

Pre- and Post-Trip Documentation

Photograph the exterior, interior, roofline, and all accessories. Capture dashboards showing odometer and generator meters. Repeat the same photos and videos at return, including tank levels and propane gauges. Ask staff to walk through the unit with you both times and sign the condition sheet.

Check Reviews Right Before Your Trip

Review patterns evolve. Re-check the Google Business Profile in the week leading up to your pick-up—sort by “lowest rating” and look for recurring red flags. If you see fresh reports of late deposit refunds, broken systems, or surprise fees, call the outlet and ask for a written plan addressing those concerns for your rental.

You can also equip yourself by studying consumer education creators. We recommend searching your specific RV brand and model on channels like Liz Amazing’s RV industry exposés to learn common failure points and maintenance traps before you accept any unit.

Objectivity: Any Evidence of Improvements?

To maintain balance, our review of public feedback indicates that some customers report clean units, fair pricing relative to competing outlets, and friendly staff. Positive reviewers often note a smooth pick-up process and a responsive team when minor issues arose. That said, low-star reviews often paint a different picture, centering on fees, deposits, unit condition, and service responsiveness. Prospective customers should read both sides carefully and make decisions with written protections in place.

If you’ve recently rented from Route 66 Rental – Upland, please add a factual account of your experience so others can evaluate the current state of operations: Add your firsthand experience.

Actionable Checklist for Route 66 Rental – Upland

• Get everything in writing. Request an itemized, all-in quote that includes all possible fees.
• Demand a complete pre-trip systems test. Tires, brakes, LP, CO/LP detectors, A/C, generator, water systems.
• Document condition with photos and video. At both pick-up and drop-off, with staff sign-off.
• Clarify deposit terms. Exact refund timeline, inspection criteria, and who decides damage liability.
• Confirm roadside support. 24/7 phone line, hotel/rental substitution policy, towing coverage.
• Check for recalls. Identify the RV’s brand and year; search NHTSA for open recalls and insist they are addressed.
• Third-party inspection for longer rentals or purchases. Consider hiring a professional—start with RV Inspectors near me. If the outlet will not allow an independent inspection, walk.
• Re-check reviews before your trip. Read the latest 1- and 2-star entries here: Route 66 Rental – Upland Google Reviews.
• Educate yourself. Watch experienced RV consumer advocates like Liz Amazing and search her channel for the brand or dealer you’re considering.

Limits and Considerations in Public Reviews

Public reviews can contain both genuine grievances and misunderstandings; not every complaint reflects a systemic problem. However, recurring patterns—especially around fees, deposit handling, mechanical condition, and service responsiveness—are meaningful. To judge Route 66 Rental – Upland fairly, read multiple negative and recent reviews in full context. When you see consistent themes, protect yourself with the steps above.

Finally, if you have dealt with Route 66 Rental in Upland, post your detailed account. Specifics (dates, documents, timelines) help future renters make informed decisions.

Final Assessment

Route 66 Rental – Upland, CA appears to be a locally run, independent rental outlet, not a national chain location. Publicly visible low-star reviews for this address frequently highlight concerns typical of the RV rental industry: stacked fees and upsells; deposit and damage disputes; variable vehicle condition at pickup (affecting trip reliability); and uneven communication at key moments (like breakdowns or return inspections). While positive reviews acknowledge friendly staff and occasional problem-free trips, the weight of negative accounts underscores the need for rigorous, written protections and a meticulous inspection process before departure.

Given the volume and persistence of the above concerns in public feedback for Route 66 Rental – Upland, we do not recommend moving forward without strong safeguards in place. If the outlet resists clear written pricing, third-party inspections, or transparent deposit policies, consider renting from a different RV dealership or rental provider with a stronger track record of honoring written terms and delivering reliable, well-maintained units.

For the latest first-hand accounts, visit: Google Reviews for Route 66 Rental – Upland, CA and sort by lowest rating to see the newest critical experiences.

Considering another dealership or rental location? Use industry watchdog resources and consumer advocates to benchmark operations. Search expert content such as Liz Amazing’s in-depth RV consumer guides, and verify recall and safety status via NHTSA. Then decide with eyes wide open.