Bad Dealer Experiences

xpditor · 04-07-04, 07:30

The good news? My ordered TL arrived yesterday at Rick Case Acura.

The bad news? Contrary to my written instruction ON THE FACE OF THE ORDER, and confirmed by several emails to the sales person, the dealer removed the plastic shipping film, ran the car through an automated wash, then used long-handled brushes (apparently) to wash the car. They then polished it. ALL contrary to my instruction to call me when the car came in and to leave it alone. I was going to detail it myself.

When I went to see the car, I found fine scratches marring the new black paint that would not rub out with a soft rag. I was sick- literally.

I also told them NOT to put the sticky dealer's name on the trunk. They did it anyway. For a short time, I was able to feel a little of the violation that a rape victim must experience.

Is that too much to ask when you're spending almost $40,000?? Do you think I should refuse this car?

Mindflux · 04-07-04, 07:38

I would.

I (Luckily) had a good dealer, I said no wash, no touchie. No badges.

They listened.

armoredsaintt · 04-07-04, 07:41

YES, ask for another...did you know Rick Case use to be in Columbus, Ohio selling motorcycles when I was in elementary school and it seems like they still suck after 20 years!

TnM6i · 04-07-04, 07:52

I would inform the delaership that you cannot and will not accept a car that they were given proper instructions NOT to touch. I'd also mention that you feel uncomfortable doing business with a dealer that can't handles a simple request from a customer. They screwed it up and it's totally their fault. Good luck!

xpditor · 04-07-04, 07:59

TnM6i: That's the real problem. I have lost my trust and confidence in the dealer. "Uncomfortable" is an understatement. If that's an example of their pre-delivery service, what can I expect post-delivery?

Do you think my Z5 can handle those fine scratches in the clear coat?

Mindflux · 04-07-04, 08:07

Z5 will only mask them, it has no actual abrasiveness to it.

reevis · 04-08-04, 06:19

I would! Especially if you had written documentation about it!

stevet · 04-08-04, 06:34

Tell them to shove the car up their a$$. This was no mistake. They told you what you wanted to hear to make a sale and then ignored your instructions. I would refuse the car and I would go to another dealer.

Mosca · 04-08-04, 06:36

I would think that the reason you put all that stuff in writing was so that everyone understood beforehand that you would refuse delivery if your instructions weren't carried out. So, what part about it doesn't anyone understand? You were very clear and up front about your wishes, everyone knew the requirements, and they were not followed. I don't see a problem here. You refuse the car and get your money back.

Next.

Tom

tetz · 04-08-04, 07:16

It sure does seem like car dealers' PDI (pre delivery inspection) and prep happens on autopilot. Whoever accepted your "I'll do my own prep please" paperwork needed to have communicated better (obviously).
You can refuse delivery but that leaves you without a car. Whatever you do don't let them try to 'fix' it; they'll make it worse.

JonT

reevis · 04-08-04, 08:10

Quote:

Originally posted by tetz
Whatever you do don't let them try to 'fix' it; they'll make it worse.

If you decide to keep with the same dealer...makesure you get the VIN number of the one they already goofed on. That way, they don't try to pull the ol'switcheroo...

Accumulator · 04-08-04, 08:59

xpditor- You're well covered on this one. Refuse the car, threaten to take it to an attorney if need be to get back any deposit, and then do it, if you have to. As you said, what are you to expect with FUTURE business with them? Run away.

Nah, the Z5 won't fix it, and *I* just refuse to accept delivery of damaged new vehicles. That's NOT what you're paying for.

FWIW, I travel a LONG way, past three other Audi dealers, to patronize a dealer I trust.