$38 Car Rental Sterling, IL

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Top Car Deals in Sterling

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Special

Choice of Supplier
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Schiller Park, Illinois, USA
Choice of Supplier

$51

includes taxes & fees
$30 per day
found 16 hours ago
Special Choice of Supplier

Standard

Kia Forte
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Schiller Park, Illinois, USA
Kia Forte

$54

includes taxes & fees
$32 per day
found 16 hours ago
Standard Kia Forte

Economy Crossover

Hyundai Kona
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
SCHILLER PARK, USA
Hyundai Kona

$57

includes taxes & fees
$32 per day
found 22 hours ago
Economy Crossover Hyundai Kona

Fullsize

Nissan Altima
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
CHICAGO, USA
Nissan Altima

$61

includes taxes & fees
$35 per day
found 16 hours ago
Fullsize Nissan Altima

Compact SUV

Kia Seltos
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Schiller Park, Illinois, USA
Kia Seltos

$61

includes taxes & fees
$37 per day
found 16 hours ago
Compact SUV Kia Seltos

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Schiller Park, Illinois, USA
Toyota Corolla

$38

includes taxes & fees
$38 per day
found 16 hours ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Standard Elite Special

Ford Mustang Mach-E
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Ford Mustang Mach-E

$75

includes taxes & fees
$45 per day
found 16 hours ago
Standard Elite Special Ford Mustang Mach-E

Midsize Elite

Tesla Short Range Model 3
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Tesla Short Range Model 3

$104

includes taxes & fees
$65 per day
found 16 hours ago
Midsize Elite Tesla Short Range Model 3

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Chrysler Pacifica

$108

includes taxes & fees
$67 per day
found 19 hours ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

Premium

Nissan Maxima
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Nissan Maxima

$123

includes taxes & fees
$79 per day
found 16 hours ago
Premium Nissan Maxima

Fullsize Elite Special

Audi A5 Sportback
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
CHICAGO, USA
Audi A5 Sportback

$174

includes taxes & fees
$115 per day
found 16 hours ago
Fullsize Elite Special Audi A5 Sportback

Luxury

Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series

$174

includes taxes & fees
$115 per day
found 16 hours ago
Luxury Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series

Premium Elite Van

Ford Transit
  • 15 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Schiller Park, Illinois, USA
Ford Transit

$400

includes taxes & fees
$400 per day
found 8 hours ago
Premium Elite Van Ford Transit

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Lowest prices found within the past 16 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Sterling car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Sterling

Renting a car in Sterling is a great choice for those looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as Sinnissippi Park, located just 2 miles away, which offers a wonderful urban park experience. Culture enthusiasts can appreciate the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home and the Dixon Historic Center, both located 12 miles from Sterling. A car rental simplifies your travel plans, allowing you to manage luggage easily and explore at your own pace. Furthermore, you can conveniently access nearby cities like Rock Falls, less than 1 mile away, and Dixon, which is 10 miles from Sterling, each offering additional cultural and historical experiences. For those seeking outdoor adventures, you can venture to Nelson, just 5 miles away, where you can also find attractions like Sinnissippi Park. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or exploring solo, a rental car provides the convenience needed to make the most of your visit to Sterling and its surrounding areas.

Where to stay around Sterling

  • Rock Falls: Located less than 1 mile from Sterling, Rock Falls offers a range of outdoor and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy Sinnissippi Park, an urban park perfect for family outings, and explore the historic Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home. The area also features various dining options, including restaurants and breweries, making it a convenient choice for food enthusiasts.
  • Dixon: Situated 10 miles from Sterling, Dixon is known for its scenic outdoor adventures. Key attractions include the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home and the Dixon Historic Center, both of which provide cultural insights. The city is home to wineries and restaurants, allowing travelers to experience local flavors while enjoying the natural beauty in the surrounding national parks and forests.
  • Nelson: Just 5 miles away from Sterling, Nelson is a great destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and scenic views. Visitors can explore historic sites and the nearby national state park. Notable attractions like the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home and Sinnissippi Park offer cultural experiences and recreational opportunities, making it an appealing spot for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, use filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect match for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most convenient. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be acceptable as well; just be sure to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it might be worth it for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Sterling

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Sterling into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Sterling and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Sterling

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Sterling. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Sterling

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $38.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$38
Our second best deal of the day
$51
Our third best deal of the day
$54
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Sterling?
You can find cheap car rentals in Sterling from $10 a day with Routes's midsize 2/4 door cars. Sixt offers standard 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day, and Enterprise provides midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Sterling that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Sterling.
What are the best luxury car companies in Sterling?
For luxury car rental in Sterling, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars starting from $22 a day and fullsize elite SUVs starting from $30 a day. Enterprise also provides premium crossover vehicles starting from $28 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience in Sterling. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Sterling.
Can I rent a car one-way in Sterling?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Sterling is available, offering flexibility for regional road trips. One-way rentals start from $12 a day. This option allows you to pick up your vehicle in Sterling and drop it off at a different location, which is convenient for travelers exploring beyond the city. Major providers like Sixt and Enterprise typically offer one-way rental options, making it easy to plan your journey. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Sterling.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Sterling?
Yes, round-trip car rentals in Sterling are readily available and often the most cost-effective choice, with prices starting from $10 a day. This option allows you to pick up and return your vehicle at the same location in Sterling, helping you avoid potential one-way drop-off fees. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer wide availability for round-trip rentals, making it convenient for exploring Sterling and the surrounding areas before returning your car. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Sterling.
What are the best car rentals in Sterling?
Car rentals in Sterling offer a wide range of vehicle types to suit various travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
These vehicles typically come with automatic transmission, providing ease of driving. For families and groups, SUVs and minivans offer ample space for passengers and luggage. Couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. When choosing, consider your passenger count, luggage requirements, and the type of driving you plan to do. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Sterling.
What are the best car rentals in Sterling for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Sterling for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes, which are small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for exploring at your own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—this class fits up to 2 medium suitcases and is nimble for city driving and parking.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—offering a bit more room for up to 3 medium suitcases while remaining fuel-efficient.
Both options comfortably accommodate a solo traveler and their luggage. If you plan on longer drives or desire more comfort, consider a compact SUV, which starts from $16 a day, for extra space and a higher driving position. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Sterling.
What are the best car rentals in Sterling for couples?
The best car rentals in Sterling for couples offer a balance of comfort and easy handling for two travelers:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $15 a day—this class provides comfortable cruising for two and fits up to 3 large suitcases.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $16 a day—offering a higher ride and space for up to 3 medium suitcases, ideal for day trips around the region.
Both options provide comfortable seating and sufficient trunk space without being difficult to park. These choices ensure a pleasant and convenient experience for couples exploring Sterling. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Sterling.
What are the best car rentals in Sterling for families?
The best car rentals in Sterling for families prioritize space and comfort for everyone and their belongings:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $15 a day—this class seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families with car seats and strollers.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $29 a day—ideal for larger families, seating up to 8 people with ample space for 6 large suitcases.
SUVs and minivans provide the necessary room for the whole family, ensuring a comfortable trip around Sterling. It is advisable to book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for travel during the June-July peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Sterling.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Sterling?
Yes, several car rental companies in Sterling provide electric and hybrid vehicle options for eco-conscious travelers. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric vehicles starting from $17 a day. Enterprise and Avis also provide hybrid options starting from $10 a day, with Avis additionally offering electric vehicles from $10 a day. Budget also has hybrid vehicles from $10 a day and electric vehicles from $17 a day. These options allow you to save on fuel costs while exploring Sterling.
What is the best time to book a car in Sterling?
The best time to book a car rental in Sterling to find competitive rates is typically during the quieter months. From January, prices are generally lower, with rentals starting from as little as $14 a day. July tends to be the busiest month, and during this period, high demand can lead to higher prices. Rates may also fluctuate during major holidays and special events. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with both availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Sterling?
For car rental in Sterling, you have excellent choices from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo, each offering a variety of vehicles to suit your travel needs. Sixt provides options such as standard 2 or 4 door cars and midsize SUVs. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars, which are great for highway travel. Alamo also has midsize SUVs and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars available. When choosing, consider a compact class for easy maneuvering and better fuel efficiency in urban areas, or a midsize SUV for more space and comfort on longer drives. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Sterling.
What are good day trip destinations from Sterling by rental car?
Sterling offers several excellent day trip destinations by rental car, perfect for exploring nature and recreation. You can easily reach these spots within a 1-hour drive, making them ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a change of scenery. Consider these popular options:
  • White Pines Forest State Park, Mount Morris, Illinois: Located 23 miles away, this park is about a 30-minute drive from Sterling. It is ideal for nature lovers seeking scenic trails and outdoor activities.
  • Lake Carroll Golf Course, Lanark, Illinois: Approximately 34 miles from Sterling, this golf course is about a 45-minute drive. It is perfect for golf enthusiasts looking for a relaxing day on the greens.
  • Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, Illinois: Situated 59 miles away, this popular state park is about a 1-hour drive. It is a great choice for hiking, waterfalls, and stunning canyon views, suitable for active families and couples.
  • Mississippi River Project, Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois: Also 59 miles away and about a 1-hour drive, this destination offers historical insights and scenic river views.
For trips to state parks like White Pines Forest State Park and Starved Rock State Park, a midsize SUV or standard SUV would provide comfortable seating and ample space for any gear you might bring. For destinations like Lake Carroll Golf Course or the Mississippi River Project, a standard 2 or 4 door or a fullsize 2 or 4 door car offers a comfortable ride. These car types are widely available, with options like a midsize SUV that can start from $15 a day or a standard 2 or 4 door car that can start from $14 a day. Always ensure your rental car has a full tank of gas before heading out, and consider packing water and snacks, especially for park visits. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies through Expedia can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Sterling.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Sterling?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Sterling. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Sterling?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Sterling?
Budget car rental in Sterling can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $38. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Sterling?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Sterling. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Sterling car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Sterling?
To rent a car in Sterling, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Sterling car rental?
If you need to cancel your Sterling car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Sterling with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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