Personally I think the reputation thread was a better approach than the stars for precisely that reason - you have the opportunity to see both sides and how the rig owner handles issues. Star ratings are one-sided, and thus are subject to manipulation by renters (who are often competing rig owners themselves - hmmm, what could possibly go wrong?)

The star system is simpler for people in a hurry, but the downside of it being potentially unfair to rig owners should also be considered.