Why I Hate Car Dealerships

Last week, Bill got a phone call on his work cell phone. It was from a local Dodge dealer or so we thought (it ended up being from, I guess, Chrysler). They were supposibly looking for my year of a van (2006) with low miles (which I do – only 48,000). So Bill signed us up to get the van appraised.

We went on Saturday night (and because they screwed us around, I lost out on Bill taking me out to dinner!!!!!!!). We get there, they take our keys, and we wait for the appraisal. In the meantime, they take us to look at another van. Here's where things get interesting — the new car lot is someplace completely different (and no, we hadn't been to this dealer except for service before. And their service center sucks. A lot. Like I've made 2 (aff) appts there, and both times they didn't have a record of my appt when I got there. Needless to say, I was pissed. Both times.)

Now, I have a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. It has a little over 48,000 miles on it. It is paid off. I don't need a new vehicle at all. However, we were going to an excellent trade in amount for it. I mean they only repeated that to us over and over and over again.

They only would show us SEs. Now, the SE van is a step down from what I currently have. I also asked what the difference between the SE, the SXT, and the Crew vans were. Well, weirdly, this dealer only carries SEs. If you want something like power doors or seats, you have to pay for the upgrade (whereas that comes standard on the SXTs). What made me upset was that our sales guys answer was that the difference was trim levels. Which is a complete lie. I am still trying to figure out why this dealer doesn't both to carry ANYTHING but SEs. I am still floored by this. Obviously, they must get a kickback from the vendor they have come in to add aftermarket stuff like power doors.

So we get back to the dealer. And sit. And sit some more. They have our keys. We can't leave. 2 (aff) hours into this ordeal (and I hadn't eaten in like 8 hours so I was starving and crabby at this point) and we finally get a number. Wait for it . . . . . . .

The number they gave us? $1000 less than Kelly Blue Book. You could have literally picked me off the floor. Because I am a bitch, I told them that too. At that point, they took another 1000 off the purchase price of a van that is a step down from what I have even though I told them several times that this van was a step down.

OHHH, and Bill asked what the current loan rates were. Our sales guy replies that people with really good credit could get as low as 2.9% What rate were they giving us? 3 (aff).9%. Now, we have pretty much perfect credit, so that even pissed Bill off.

At some point in this, we have the sales manager in there who tells our sales guy that we want an SXT. Which, you know, I've repeated about 20 times at this point but nobody listens to the stupid woman. Now, this sales manager is another piece of work since every question I asked, he looked at Bill when he answered. Let's just say that didn't go well with me.

SOOOOO here's my advice:

When Chrysler calls you and tells you they are looking for your vehicle, hang up! I now will be spending the next month avoiding their phone calls since you know they aren't going to take no as an answer!

Lisa Martin

In April 2006, Lisa began blogging to stay connected with distant relatives and friends. As she delved into blogging, she discovered the potential to assist others by sharing her experiences. Lisa has actively engaged in numerous exclusive media ventures. Notable among these are her participation in events such as the Sony Mommy Bloggers Event, the Pampers Mommy Bloggers Event, the Epson Event in Chicago, the Stouffers Event, a memorable yacht excursion with Lands End, collaborations with 1-800-Baskets, an exclusive tour for bloggers by Mrs. Prindable’s, partnerships with Hallmark, PopCap games, Chicago Cubs Mastercard Priceless Events, and Rug Doctor. In addition, she has collaborated with Nutrisystem on a weight loss initiative, teamed up with Buick and Chevy, and served as a brand ambassador for Sprint. Lisa's collaboration portfolio also extends to Disney, where she has participated in press trips for significant movies such as Frozen, Guardians of the Galaxy, McFarland USA, The Good Dinosaur, The BFG, and Cars 3. Notably, for projects like Frozen, The BFG, and Cars 3, she was granted the privilege of walking the red carpet and conducting interviews with celebrities. The impact of Lisa's blog has gained recognition, with The New York Times referencing her content. Moreover, she has been featured in interviews by respected publications such as the Southtown Star, The Chicago Sun Times, and inside.
Loading comments...