So maybe I haven't rented a car in awhile but $500 for 4 days seems like a lot. I have never used Avis but had $150 in rewards certificates or I might have shopped it more. It is race week and spring training so they probably jacked up the rates.
My issue almost was about gas...I told the rep that I wanted the prepaid gas at 2.20 a gallon...worth not scrambling for gas before leaving. Well he DIDNT select that so the guy told me gas is $10 a gallon or $150...before I flipped out he said he would take my word and give me the prepaid rate...I would have gone Seinfeld on them if they didn't do the right thing.
Everything else was fine...but always shop and compare...and double check your contract to make sure it reflects what you agreed to...especially if you do the prepaid fuel option.