About CMW Car Rentals
We're not a chain. We're a San Diego family that has been renting cars to real people for 20+ years — with clear rental terms and a real person who picks up the phone.
CMW Car Rentals At A Glance
CMW Car Rentals is a family-owned car rental company in Kearny Mesa, San Diego. Drivers 18 and older can rent with no under-25 surcharge, unlimited mileage within San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties during the authorized rental period, and payment by cash, debit card, or credit card.
Policy last updated August 19, 2026. Call 858-560-1919 to confirm current vehicle availability, deposit requirements, and rental details.
Why Customers Choose CMW
CMW does not charge an airport-concession fee, young-driver surcharge, or per-mile fee within San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties during the authorized rental period. Rental charges, taxes, deposit requirements, optional items, and any other authorized charges are disclosed before signing.
Eligible drivers age 18 and older may rent using a license CMW can verify. Unlimited mileage applies within San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties during the authorized rental period.
We're not a franchise or a call center. We're a San Diego family that has operated in Kearny Mesa for 20+ years. When you call, a real person answers — someone who knows the area and cares about your experience.
Vehicle changes may be available, subject to fleet availability and rental terms; category or rate differences may apply. Active renters should call CMW before arranging roadside help or an after-hours return.
A San Diego Family Business
CMW Car Rentals was founded on a simple idea: people deserve a car rental experience that treats them with respect. No young-driver surcharge and no per-mile fee within San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties during the authorized rental period — just clear terms from people who live and work in the same community you do.
We've been operating out of Kearny Mesa for over 20 years. In that time we've served military families, college students, international visitors, insurance replacement customers, and everyone in between. Our 75+ five-star reviews aren't from a marketing campaign — they're from real San Diegans who came back and told their friends.
We rent to drivers 18 and older, accept cash and debit (no credit card required), and include unlimited mileage on every vehicle within San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties during the authorized rental period. We also honor international driver's licenses and accept insurance replacement rentals. If a big chain has turned you away, chances are we can help.
Come in Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM, or call us directly. A real person will answer.
| Address | 7789 Othello Ave., San Diego, CA 92111 |
| Phone | 858-560-1919 |
| rent@cmwcarrentals.com | |
| Hours | Monday – Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Min. Age | 18 years old — no under-25 surcharge |
| Payment | Cash, debit card, or credit card accepted |
| Mileage | Unlimited within San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties during the authorized rental period |
| Area | San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties; travel outside these counties requires CMW's prior written approval; travel outside California or the U.S. is prohibited |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has CMW Car Rentals been in business?+
CMW Car Rentals has been family-owned and operating in Kearny Mesa, San Diego for over 20 years. We've served customers across San Diego and the surrounding region.
Is CMW part of a national chain or independently owned?+
CMW is fully independent — not a franchise or affiliate of any national chain. Every decision about pricing, policy, and service is made locally by the same family that founded the business.
Can I walk in without a reservation?+
We highly recommend calling ahead to confirm vehicle availability, especially for SUVs.
Do you offer after-hours support?+
Yes. While our office hours are Monday–Saturday 9 AM–6 PM, we offer phone and text support outside those hours for active rentals. All rentals include roadside assistance.
Can I swap my vehicle if I'm not happy with it?+
Vehicle changes may be available if you contact CMW first. Availability, category, and any rate difference depend on the rental terms and current fleet.
Reserve Your
Vehicle Today
Fill out the form and a team member will respond quickly with availability and pricing. Or call us directly — we love talking to customers.
READY TO HIT THE ROAD? LET'S GO.
A real person answers Monday–Saturday, 9AM–6PM. No hold queues, no automated menus.