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Rent-A-Wreck Celebrates 40 Years in Erie, Pennsylvania Market

The locally run customer-focused rental car service has built a loyal client base over four decades.

Inflatable green pop-up tank next to car rental outlet.

Rent-A-Wreck of Erie added propane sales and service in 1998, so it brands its 40-year location with a giant green tank.

Photo: Rent-A-Wreck of Erie

1 min to read


Greg Kilburn, longtime franchise owner of Rent-A-Wreck of Erie, Pennsylvania, recently marked 40 years in the car rental business.

Since opening Rent-A-Wreck of Erie in March 1985, Kilburn has built a trusted local business that provides affordable and reliable rental vehicles. 

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It has grown from six cars to 45 cars, SUVs, minivans, and 12 and 15-passenger vans. Rent-A-Wreck added propane sales in 1998, refilling and selling tanks. 

Over four decades, he has navigated changing markets, industry shifts, and economic challenges while focusing strongly on community relationships and customer care. 

“I’m incredibly grateful to our customers, staff, and the Erie community for their support over the years,” Kilburn said in a news release. “I have seen generations of families rent from us; that kind of trust means everything.” 

Rent-A-Wreck of Erie, part of a nationwide network, still operates at the same address where it started: 4340 West Ridge Rd. 


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