AboutRay Paulsen Expertise confused buying new or used...buy with confidence from dealer or private...consumer fears...paying to much...getting a lemon...accident car...fair value for trade...negotiation process...etc...you simply want a fair deal...
Experience over 30 years in automotive industry, management, retail, wholesale, appraisals, auctions, vintage
Question Hi Ray, here's my story. Three months ago I drove my 4 year old Kia Sorento truck into a dealership to buy a small part. In speaking with a salesmen he mentioned they had a special sale on the new 2008 models. I mentioned I was quite happy with my truck and the only issue I had was that it was rear wheel drive. I live in Chicago, so rear wheel drive is a pain in snow and sleet weather. He assured me they carried four wheel drive models and we started the process.
I was approved for financing and I traded in my truck for a 2008 Sorento. I had increased my monthly car note by $128 a month, but I had the stability of four wheel drive. Or so I thought. We were hit with some bad storms and I got stuck several times, and I soon discovered my brand new truck was rear wheel drive as well.
I took it back to the dealership this past Friday, and had the repair shop confirm the rear wheel drive. I spoke to the salesmen that sold me the vehicle several months prior. He stated that he ‘really thought it was a 4x4’.
A week after I had bought this vehicle, I had purchased a second vehicle from them as well. So I have proven that I can be a loyal customer. I have made a few calls since and I am told that they’ll look into it. But the consensus seems to be that I can come in and trade it in, but I’ll probably end up paying more for the replacement. Since my vehicle has depreciated, they tell me I’d either have to trade down to an older car, or increase my debt and car note to get what I want: a 2008 Kia Sorento 4x4.
I checked and the Blue Book value on my new truck has dropped over $10,000. I am not sure what my next step would be, or what my rights are.
I never would’ve bought the truck had it not been a 4x4. That was the only issue I’d had with my original truck, other than that, I would’ve stayed with it. It was in excellent condition, while 4 years old, and I had a low car note. Not to mention half the debt I have now owed to the bank with financing. Now I am stuck with a higher car note, double the debt and still driving a rear wheel drive truck in Chicago weather. I will admit, I assumed 4x4 meant it just was..I didn't know there was a switch inside, or that it says it on the car. I know, dumb rookie mistake. That's why I took so long. I'm worried this has hurt me.
I have filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Do I have a shot at being heard? Am I in the right? Or am I on a wild goose chase? I am not trying to scam, or get more than I paid for. I want the vehicle that I was told I was getting.
Answer Hi Lea
The salesman that sold you the vehicle " stated he thought it was a 4x4 " if he will back you up on that in a small claims court you win all the way as that is considered misrepresentation, but my guess is that will never happen.
As for you buying a second car and being a loyal customer, yes you are, but the dealer really don't give two hoots, your just what is called a sticker, sorry to say, note dealer has already taken the stance, trade it in and let them empty your pockets some more.
We all make mistakes and learn from them, reading your question I can tell your a very up front honest person,but in all fairness it's really up to you to check what your buying prior to delivery.
I would shop around and not give this dealership any more business, if now or down the road it's time to trade, then run it by me before you make a move.
