Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) Car Rental Deals – Save Big on Your Michigan Adventure

Introduction: Welcome to Detroit Metropolitan Airport, the busiest airport in Michigan and your first stop on the road to exploring Detroit and the Great Lakes region. Renting a car at DTW Airport gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule from the moment you land, whether you’re heading into downtown Detroit for business, cruising out to Ann Arbor for a college visit, or embarking on a Michigan road trip. This page is your complete guide to securing an affordable Detroit airport car rental with ease. We’ve combined AirportVanRental’s best deals with local tips on navigating DTW’s rental process, so you can rent a car at Detroit Metro confidently, whether you’re a returning Michigander or flying in from overseas.

Pro Tip: Unlike some cities, Detroit doesn’t have a direct train or subway from the airport, so a rental car is often the fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination. Taxis or rideshares can cost $50+ to downtown, especially with traffic, but with a rental you could pay as little as $21 a day and have unlimited freedom. Plus, if you’re arriving on a late-night flight, having your own car means no waiting for shuttles or paying surge fares, just hop in and go!

Why book with AirportVanRental at DTW? Because we make it fast, easy, and affordable:

• No Pre-Payment Needed: Reserve your car now, pay at pick-up. Most rentals require no upfront payment, giving you flexibility if your plans change last-minute.
• Free Cancellation: Enjoy free cancellation on most bookings up to 48 hours before pickup. Lock in a great rate early without worry, if your flight or plans shift, you won’t be stuck with fees.
• Instant Confirmation: Our booking process takes just a few clicks. Once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, confirm your reservation and you’re all set. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details (including the rental company and pickup instructions at DTW).
• Transparent Pricing: The rate you see includes all mandatory taxes and airport fees, we itemize everything so there are no surprises at the counter. (Detroit Metro rentals do include some extra surcharges like concession and facility fees, more on that below, but our quotes show them upfront, so you know the true total.)

Arriving at DTW, What to Expect

Detroit Metro Airport has two main terminals: McNamara (serving Delta and partners) and Evans (North) Terminal (serving most other airlines). Neither terminal has on-site rental car counters, but getting your rental is easy via the continuous shuttle service. After you land and collect your luggage, follow the signs for “Ground Transportation / Rental Car Shuttles.” At McNamara, head to the Ground Transportation center on the lower level of the parking garage, and at Evans, go to the Big Blue Deck’s Ground Transportation area. Look for purple rental car shuttle buses, they run 24/7 and stop for all rental companies. The shuttle ride is short (~5 minutes) and will drop you off right at the Rental Car Center on Lucas Drive.

Once at the Rental Car Center, you’ll find all the major rental brand counters in one building, simply proceed to your company’s counter (or if you’re an express member like Hertz Gold or Emerald Club, you might go straight to the lot/exit booth with your license). The staff will get you to your car quickly. The car pick-up lot is adjacent to the building, so you won’t have to travel further. Important: Keep your rental contract handy as it will list return instructions and after-hours procedures.

When it’s time to return, just follow the signs on the airport roads for “Rental Car Return”, the entrance is on Lucas Drive, just north of the airport proper. Plan to arrive at the rental center at least 30 minutes before you want to be at your terminal, to allow time to turn in the car and catch the shuttle back to the airport (shuttles typically run every 5-10 minutes, 24 hours a day).

Why Rent a Car at Detroit Metro Airport?

Picking up a rental at the airport is often the most convenient choice for travelers. Here’s why renting at DTW is a smart move:

• Immediate Mobility: After a flight, the last thing you may want is to navigate a series of transfers or wait for a ride-share. With a rental car, you can step off the plane, grab your keys, and drive off to your destination. It’s especially handy for DTW because the airport is about 20–30 minutes outside Detroit, having a car means you’re not dependent on limited shuttles or pricey taxis to cover that distance.
• Save Time on Business or Quick Trips: If you’re flying in for a quick business trip in downtown Detroit or have meetings around the metro area (Auburn Hills, Dearborn, etc.), a rental car can be a major time-saver. You set your schedule, drive straight to your meeting in Troy or that factory visit in Windsor (yes, you can drive a DTW rental to Canada) without coordinating with drivers. Many of our business travelers find that with a car, a 30-minute drive can replace what would be a much longer commute if relying on public transit or multiple rideshares. Time is money, and renting saves you both.
• Freedom for Early or Late Arrivals: Flights don’t always arrive 9-to-5. If you land at midnight or need to depart before dawn, having your own car ensures 24/7 mobility. As mentioned, DTW’s rental shuttles run around the clock, and major rental companies accommodate late arrivals (they often stay open or have after-hour solutions for delayed flights with reservations). Instead of being stranded or paying for an expensive last-minute ride at 2 AM, you’ll have your own ride ready. Likewise, for early flights out, you can return your car at 4 AM and catch that 6 AM takeoff with minimal fuss.
• Gateway to Michigan & Beyond: DTW isn’t just the gateway to Detroit, it’s a jumping off point to explore all of Michigan or even the broader Midwest. Many travelers use Detroit as a starting point to drive to East Lansing (MSU, about 1.5 hours), Grand Rapids (2.5 hours), Mackinac Island (4 hours to ferry), or even farther like Cleveland (2.5 hours) or Toronto (4 hours). Having a rental car from the airport means you can embark on a road trip straight from the terminal. No need to transfer to a city location or arrange separate transport, you’re road-trip-ready from the get-go.

In short, renting at Detroit Metro Airport gives you the ultimate flexibility. Whether your itinerary keeps you in Metro Detroit or takes you across state lines, starting with a car at DTW sets you up for success.

Our Detroit Airport Car Rental Advantages

When you book your DTW Airport rental through AirportVanRental, you get more than just a car, you get peace of mind and value. Here’s what makes our Detroit Metro Airport car rental experience stand out:

• Best Rates at DTW Guaranteed: Airport rentals can sometimes be pricier due to facility fees, but we scan all the rental companies at DTW to find you the cheapest rates available. By aggregating deals from top-rated brands (and even off-airport agencies), we ensure you don’t miss hidden discounts. We often have exclusive promo rates (weekend specials, weekly bundles, etc.) thanks to our partnerships. If there’s a lower price out there for the same itinerary, we’ll match or beat it. Our goal is simple: get you the most bang for your buck on your Detroit airport rental.
• Wide Vehicle Selection (Including Vans): Need a zippy economy car for a solo trip? An SUV for a family vacation to the Michigan lakes? A roomy minivan or 12-passenger van for a group outing or sports team? We’ve got them all. AirportVanRental specializes in van rentals, so at DTW you’ll find passenger van options that other sites might not prominently feature. Of course, you’ll also see the full range of vehicles, from compact cars and sedans to luxury models and hybrids. With thousands of vehicles in the system, you can choose exactly what fits your trip. (Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in winter and plan to drive in snow, consider one of our AWD SUVs, we often list models with all-wheel drive which can be beneficial on icy roads.)
• No Hidden Fees, Total Transparency: Detroit Metro rentals include a few extra surcharges (like an airport concession recovery fee ~10% and a customer facility charge around $6/day) that come with renting at the airport. We make sure all mandatory fees and taxes are included in your quote upfront. The price you see is the price you pay, period. For example, if your base rate is $30/day, we’ll show the taxes and fees so you might see something like $38/day all-in. Rather than surprise you at the counter, we display these in your online quote breakdown. You’ll know the true total cost before you book, so you can budget accurately. No last-minute surprises or mysterious “airport surcharges”, we hate that too!
• Flexible Booking & Payment: Travel plans can change, and flights can be unpredictable. That’s why most reservations through us at DTW require no prepayment. Lock in your car with a credit card but pay when you pick it up. If you need to cancel or modify, it’s usually free up until 48 hours before pick-up. We understand the airline may reroute or cancel your flight, just let us know and we’ll help adjust your reservation. Additionally, we don’t tack on any booking fees. Young driver under 25? Additional driver? Those fees (if any) are set by the rental company, and we show them, but we don’t add our own on top. It’s your rental, your way, with maximum flexibility.
• Customer Support & Local Expertise: Renting at a big airport can be daunting, but we’re here to make it smooth. Our customer support isn’t a generic call center, we have agents familiar with Detroit Metro Airport and its rental procedures. If you have any issue, say you can’t find the shuttle, or you left something in the rental car, you can reach out to us for prompt assistance. We also keep tabs on DTW-specific info, like if there are any construction detours or changes in the rental shuttle pickup (airports occasionally shift things, we’ll update you in your confirmation if needed). Basically, we’ve got your back from the moment you land to the moment you return that car. Travel confident, knowing we’re a phone call away to assist with any bumps in the road.
• One-Way Rentals and More: Need to pick up at DTW and drop off elsewhere? Many of our rental partners allow one-way trips. For instance, you could land in Detroit, rent a car, do a road trip to Chicago or Cleveland, and drop the car off there. Just select a different return location in our search to see options. We’ll highlight any one-way fee (if applicable) so you know the cost upfront. This is perfect for travelers planning an open-jaw itinerary. Additionally, if you only need a car for part of your stay (e.g., you’re in downtown Detroit for a conference without a car, then want a car for a two-day trip to Mackinac Island), you can absolutely do that. Our site accommodates one-day rentals up to multi-week rentals with ease. We encourage you to rent only for when you need, we have plenty of convenient Detroit area locations to drop off if you don’t need the car the whole time. It’s all about giving you options.

Top Detroit Metro Airport Car Rental Deals

Travelers through DTW can take advantage of a range of vehicles to suit their needs. Here are some deals and vehicle types commonly found at Detroit Metro Airport, along with typical pricing and why they might be a great choice:

• Economy Car, from $21/day.Example: Ford Fiesta or similar. Great for solo travelers or couples, especially if you’re sticking to city driving. These cars make parking in downtown Detroit or Ann Arbor a breeze and offer fantastic fuel efficiency (important if you plan to drive long distances, say to Traverse City or Chicago). Why such a low price? Economy cars are plentiful in fleets and often the first to go on sale during off-peak periods. If you’re visiting in winter or a quieter travel month, you might snag a rate like this. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who pack light.
• Standard SUV, from $40/day.Example: Chevrolet Equinox or similar. A balanced choice for many travelers. Seats 5 with ample luggage space. If you’re here with family or have an outdoor itinerary (maybe skiing at Boyne or hiking in state parks), an SUV provides comfort and cargo room. At DTW, SUVs are popular but also abundant, so prices can be very reasonable. They often come with modern features (backup cameras, Bluetooth) that make navigating unfamiliar roads easier. Also, you’ll appreciate the higher ground clearance if Michigan throws some snow your way.
• Minivan, from $59/day.Example: Chrysler Pacifica or Dodge Grand Caravan. Traveling with kids or a larger group? Minivans are MVPs. They seat 7-8 and have sliding doors for easy in-and-out, plus room for all the luggage (or that shopping haul from Great Lakes Crossing Outlets). Families love them for the DVD entertainment systems and comfort on longer drives. At Detroit Airport, we frequently see visiting sports teams, church groups, or extended families opting for a couple of minivans. They’re cost-effective (cheaper than renting two separate cars) and keep the group together. Keep in mind they are in high demand in summer, book early for the best rates.
• 12-Passenger Van, from $79/day.Example: Ford Transit 12-seater or similar. Got a big group? This is your answer. 12-passenger vans are ideal for corporate teams traveling to meetings, large family reunions, or school groups on a tour. The per-person cost often beats any other mode of transport (certainly cheaper than multiple taxis or flights for inter-city trips). Despite their size, they’re fairly straightforward to drive, just think of it as a long SUV. One thing to note: these can be limited in supply, and AirportVanRental is a go-to platform for van seekers (given our name and specialty). If you see a deal around $79/day, that’s excellent, lock it in. These vans typically come with removable seats if you need cargo space, but check with the rental agent. And always double-check parking garage clearances if you take one downtown (or opt for open lots).

Traveler’s Note: The above rates are examples, actual prices fluctuate based on season and availability. Detroit’s peak travel times (and thus higher rental rates) often coincide with holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas), summer vacation season, and big events (North American International Auto Show in early summer, Detroit Grand Prix, major conventions). If you’re coming during these times, book as early as possible to secure a good rate. Conversely, if you’re visiting in January or February (after the holidays), you might find really cheap rentals since it’s a slower period, a great time to snag an upgrade or a larger vehicle for the price of a smaller one. Always check our live search for the latest deals, we often have limited-time promotions specific to Detroit Airport too (like a free GPS add-on or a weekend special rate).

Driving Out of Detroit Metro Airport: Tips and Info

Once you’ve picked up your car at DTW, here’s what you need to know to get on your way smoothly:

• Exiting the Airport: The rental car facility roads will lead you back to the airport’s exit. From DTW, you’ll typically get on I-94 (East) if you’re heading into Detroit (eastbound towards downtown) or I-94 West if you’re heading towards Ann Arbor/Jackson. Another key route is I-275 which runs north-south just west of the airport, useful if you’re going north to suburbs like Livonia/Novi or south towards Toledo. Follow the signs and your GPS, it’s well-marked. Just be mindful of speed limits; the airport access roads are patrolled.
• Distance to Key Destinations: DTW to Downtown Detroit is about 20-23 miles, roughly a 30 minute drive outside of rush hour. DTW to Ann Arbor is about 25 miles (30 minutes via I-94 West). DTW to Dearborn (Henry Ford Museum) is ~15 miles (20 minutes). Knowing these can help you plan your departure.
• Traffic & Rush Hour: If you’re departing the airport on a weekday between 7-9 AM or arriving back between 4-6 PM, expect some traffic, especially on I-94 and I-75 toward downtown. The freeways around the airport (I-94, I-275) can get congested during peak times as commuters travel to Detroit or its western suburbs. Use a navigation app with traffic (Google Maps, Waze), they might route you on surface roads for a bit if there’s a big jam on I-94. If you’re not familiar with Detroit driving: drivers here are generally moderate, not as aggressive as some big East Coast cities, but do expect folks to sometimes exceed the speed limit when traffic is light. Just keep a safe speed you’re comfortable with.
• Fueling Up & Toll Roads: There are no toll roads in Michigan, so you won’t encounter any toll booths as you leave DTW or drive around the state (exception: if you head to Ohio via the Ohio Turnpike or to Canada, you’ll have tolls, but within Michigan, nope!). As for fuel, if you rented on a full-to-full policy, your car will be full. There are gas stations near the airport, but as noted earlier, the ones right at the airport exit (like along Merriman Road) often charge a premium. If you can, fuel up a few miles from the airport for better prices. Otherwise, if you only used a bit of fuel and want to top off before returning, those airport-adjacent stations are convenient.
• Returning the Car: When you come back, follow signs for Rental Car Return on Lucas Drive. It’s a clearly marked entrance. Drive in, find your rental company’s lane, and park where indicated, an attendant will usually greet you. They’ll do a quick inspection and print or email you a receipt. Then you’ll hop on the shuttle back to your terminal (if you’re flying out). Remember to remove all your belongings! Check the glove box, center console, and trunk for that stash of Motown CDs or the souvenirs you bought. We’d also advise allowing a bit of extra time if you’re returning during peak hours (early morning can have a crowd of returns). Typically, though, returns at DTW are quick.

Local Driving Quirk: If you haven’t experienced a Michigan Left yet, you might near the airport if you drive on some surface roads. For instance, on big roads like Telegraph or Michigan Ave around the metro area, instead of a direct left at a big intersection, you might see “No Left, use U-Turn”. Don’t worry, it’s an intuitive setup once you do it. You pass through the intersection, use a dedicated U-turn Lane in the median a few hundred feet down, then loop back and turn right. It keeps traffic flowing. Just something to be aware of, though many airport travelers stick to freeways initially where this isn’t an issue.

Popular Road Trips from Detroit Metro Airport

Many travelers landing at DTW don’t just stay in Detroit, they use the airport as a springboard for exploring the broader region. Here are a few road trip ideas you can embark on straight from Detroit Metro Airport:

1. DTW to Northern Michigan (Scenic Lakes & Small Towns), Route: DTW ➔ Bay City ➔ Mackinaw City ➔ Upper Peninsula, ~300 miles to Mackinaw City (5 hours).

Highlights: If you’re flying in to experience Michigan’s famed north, hop in your rental and head north on I-75. A great first stop is Bay City (about 115 miles, 2 hours from DTW). It’s a charming historic town on the Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron, stretch your legs along the riverfront or grab a bite at a waterfront restaurant. Continue north on I-75 through Michigan’s lower peninsula, enjoying how the landscape becomes more forested. As you approach Mackinaw City, about 5 hours from where you started, you’ll smell the fresh water of the Great Lakes. Mackinaw City is the jumping-off point for Mackinac Island (no cars there, but you can ferry over) and it’s where the Mackinac Bridge connects to the Upper Peninsula. Don’t miss some creamy fudge in town, it’s a local specialty. If time permits, cross the Mighty Mac into the Upper Peninsula (you’ll be greeted by St. Ignace). Even a short drive into the UP provides stunning views, forests, Lake Michigan shoreline along US-2, perhaps a detour to Tahquamenon Falls (if you go 1.5 hours east) or Pictured Rocks (3 hours west).

Pro Tip: This is a lot of driving, so break it into multiple days. And watch for deer, especially at dusk, northern Michigan has a lot of wildlife by the roads.

2. DTW to The Thumb & Lake Huron Coast, Route: DTW ➔ Port Huron ➔ “Thumb” Coast (Port Austin) ➔ Bay City (loop back), ~250 miles round-trip.

Highlights: Michigan’s “Thumb” (look at the mitten shape of the state, the thumb is the peninsula sticking out into Lake Huron) is a road-tripper’s delight often missed by out-of-staters. From the airport, go northeast on I-94 about 70 miles to Port Huron (1 hour 15 min). In Port Huron, check out the historic Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, it’s Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, marking the spot where Lake Huron funnels into the St. Clair River. Then drive up M-25 which hugs the Lake Huron coast. You’ll pass through beachy villages like Lexington and Caseville (famous for a cheeseburger festival!). At the tip of the Thumb is Port Austin, a kayaker’s paradise where you can paddle to Turnip Rock, a unique rock formation (you’ll need a few hours to kayak roundtrip). Even if you don’t kayak, Port Austin has a lovely farmers market (in summer) and an old-town vibe. From the tip, you can loop back down toward Bay City to return, or go back the way you came for more coastal views.

Pro Tip: This drive is especially great in the summer (for beach stops and swimming) or fall (for gorgeous color and farmers markets). It’s a more off-the-beaten-path Michigan experience, lots of scenic pull-offs and small towns to explore.

3. DTW to Ohio & Amish Country, Route: DTW ➔ Toledo ➔ Columbus ➔ Amish Country (Holmes County), ~300 miles one-way to Amish Country (with Columbus stop).

Highlights: Yes, you can land in Detroit and quickly end up exploring another state. Head south on I-75 about 60 miles (1 hour) to Toledo, Ohio. Toledo has the beautiful Toledo Museum of Art (worth a stop) and a renowned zoo if you’re interested. Continue down I-75 or split off to I-71 to reach Columbus, Ohio (about 3 hours from DTW). Columbus is a vibrant city (check out the Short North arts district or the German Village for cobblestone charm). Then for a change of pace, drive east ~80 miles to Holmes County, Ohio, which is the heart of Amish Country. You’ll share rural roads with horse-drawn buggies, and can visit Amish bakeries, cheese factories, and craft shops. Towns like Berlin and Millersburg have shops selling quilts, furniture, and amazing foods (peanut butter spread, homemade pies!). It’s like stepping back in time.

Pro Tip: Remember, Sunday most Amish businesses are closed. And drive cautiously, buggies are slow! This trip showcases a different culture and some idyllic farmland, a nice contrast to busy Detroit. You can loop back via I-71 north to DTW (around Cleveland and along Lake Erie) for a different return route.

These are just a few ideas, the beauty of renting a car at DTW is that the whole Midwest is open to you. Whether it’s a Great Lakes circle tour or a cross-country trek, your journey begins when you turn the ignition at Detroit Metro Airport!

Quick-Reference Info Box, Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) Car Rental

• Airport Overview: DTW has 2 main terminals (McNamara and Evans). All rental car pickups/returns are at the consolidated Rental Car Campus on Lucas Drive, connected by 24/7 shuttle buses (~5 min ride).
• Distance to Detroit: ~23 miles driving to Downtown Detroit (via I-94 East). About 30 minutes in normal traffic. DTW is actually in the city of Romulus, MI.
• Major Highways from DTW: I-94 (runs E-W) and I-275 (runs N-S just west of airport). Use I-94 E for Detroit, I-94 W for Ann Arbor/Kalamazoo, I-275 N to go toward I-96 (Lansing/Grand Rapids) or I-275 S toward Ohio.
• Fuel Near Airport: Nearest gas stations on Merriman Rd, Wick Rd, etc. Example: an BP and Sunoco on Merriman just south of I-94 exit. Prices there can be ~$0.30/gal higher than stations a few miles away due to convenience. Plan accordingly if you need to refuel.
• Rental Car Facility Address (for GPS): Rental Car Return, 289 Lucas Dr, Detroit, MI 48242. (But generally just follow airport signs when near).
• Phone Coverage: Full cell coverage in airport area (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile strong). Handy if using Google Maps out of the airport.
• Nearby Hotels: Many airport hotels (Westin at McNamara terminal itself, plus others on Merriman Rd) offer shuttle service, but with a rental car you can stay anywhere. Driving from DTW to hotel clusters: Romulus/Merriman Rd hotels (5-10 min), Dearborn hotels (15-20 min), downtown hotels (30-35 min).
• Unique Rules: Michigan’s no-handheld device law (so no phone in hand while driving, use Bluetooth or mount). Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks (Detroit downtown has many). Legal to turn right on red after stop (unless signposted). Left on red from a one-way to a one-way is permitted in Michigan (some visitors don’t know that one!).
• Cross-Border to Canada: Allowed with most rentals (just inform provider). The Ambassador Bridge or Detroit-Windsor Tunnel both take cash/credit for toll (~$5). Expect a short interview by border agents. Canadian law requires headlights on in rain. In Windsor/Canada, speeds in km/h (100 km/h = ~62 mph). Returning to US, no fruits/meats, etc. in car to declare. Plan an extra 10-15 min at border each way (can be more at rush hour).
• Return Process: Follow “Rental Car Return” signs to Lucas Drive facility. Park in your rental company’s lane, give keys to attendant or drop in box if after hours. Important: Remove all personal items, check under seats and trunk! Shuttle will pick you up near return lanes to take you to terminals (tell driver which terminal/airline).