My experience at this dealership was anything but pleasurable. The agreed upon payment was extremely misrepresented by their sales associate, hours of my time were wasted, and the Customer Service and management of this dealership was deplorable. On Saturday, November 22, 2003, I met with Alicia Campos at Nemet Auto and set-up a test-drive on a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer LT for that Monday.
That Monday after the test-drive, I informed Ms. Campos that I was interested in purchasing the vehicle, however I also told her that I was still shopping around for the best deal. In order to get the ball rolling to see if I would qualify for the Zero percent financing, I filled out a credit application. After spending two hours in the dealership, I was pre-approved for the Zero percent interest loan. It was agreed that evening that the down payment would total $2000.00. This amount consisted of $500.00 out of pocket expense, $1053.00 GMAC Credit Card Points Incentive and $500.00 Customer Loyalty Credit.
It was further determined that the payment would be $350.00 per month for 72 months. I would also be trading in a 2002 Chevy Impala which still had an outstanding loan balance of $12,600.00. I questioned a payment of $350.00 several times as I realized the incredible deal that I would be getting. The sticker price on the car was $37,000.00 and the total payments would be $27,200.00. I was assured each time that the payment would be $350.00 with $2000.00 down.
Based on this information, I gave the dealership $500.00 towards the down payment and completed the necessary applications. On Tuesday, November 25th all requested information was faxed to the dealership including the insurance information for the new vehicle. I was advised that I could pick the vehicle up later in the evening. I arrived at the dealership at 7 p.m. at which time the Impala was taken for inspection. At 8:30 p.m. I was finally taken to see the Finance Manager, Mr. Hernandez, to complete all necessary paperwork.
Firstly, I was advised that if I wanted to take advantage of the zero percent interest loan I was not entitled to the $500.00 Customer Loyalty Credit as previously told the evening before (I find this to be pretty ironic). Then to my outrage I was advised that the monthly payment would be $549.00 per month for 72 months. I immediately asked to speak with the Manager of the Dealership and the Sales Associate whom I originally dealt with. In the presence of the Sales Associate and Finance Manger I advised the Dealerships Manager of the prior evening's 2 hour discussion, the terms of the agreement made, and the numerous occasions that I verified that the payment would be $350.00 per month for 72 months.The finance manager stated I seemed like an educated person and I should have realized that the payment could not have been $350.00. Of course I realized that was a fabulous deal, that is why I continued to question the Sales Associate and ultimately agreed to purchase the car. The dealerships Manager, with a smile on his face, then told me to be reasonable and began to try and cut a deal, the lowest payment being $489.00 per month.
I am outraged at the deception that occurred at this dealership and the lack of concern or apology on behalf of management. I left with not even an apology or explanation. I am the manager of a customer service department for one of the largest banks in New York, and I find this to be inexcusable, unacceptable, and extremely disturbing. By the reaction or lack of reaction by the sales associate and management, I am lead to believe that this is a common occurrence at this dealership. They low ball their price, bring you in to sign the paperwork, and spring a higher payment on you.
