My sister purchased a used vehicle within her budget with... - JKW
My sister purchased a used vehicle within her budget with help from Jesse. Jesse was outstanding, flexible, answered our questions, was very respectful.
I was with my sister when she viewed, test drove and purchased the car. I did the best I could to check for obvious signs of issues, to include crawling as far under the car as I could looking for leaks, in clear view of Jesse. I suppose I should've asked him if they could put it on a lift (not sure they would or even could), but I made the fatal mistake of trusting that a Cadillac/Volvo dealership had certain inspection standards. I was told that in the course of the 5 day, 300 mile "warranty/guarantee" that the dealership would work with us if any major issues were found, that their customer service/reputation meant a lot to them.
Purchased it 2 Jun, drove back to CO Spring. Next day, it was leaking oil, several drops under the car at every stop. We weren't able to get it inspected at a local dealership until 7 Jun (1st available). In short, major pre-existing leaks were found with estimated repairs equaling about 1/3 the purchase price. (trans oil pan, upper engine oil pan, oil cooler, head gaskets, etc). I could accept "minor" leaks and issues given the age/mileage of the car, but thought this excessive. The Rickenbaugh inspection report made no mention of these issues. Again, I expected a Volvo/Cadillac dealership to have decent standards.
E-mailed pictures of the leaks and inspection report later on 7 Jun.
Contacted Jesse 8 Jun to confirm he received it--he hadn't so I re-sent it and was told the used car sales manager would contact me. Jesse would not give me his name when I asked or an expected response timeframe--I was ok with that and figured they needed time to review/assess the way ahead. We weren't asking for them to cover the entire repair, was just hoping to perhaps "meet in the middle" or re-inspect the car to verify the findings and go from there. Frankly, just the courtesy of a reply would've sufficed, if even, "sorry, can't help you" was it.
One week later, after a few check-ins with Jesse to ensure my info was relayed, no contact. I had to research the staff directory and call a few other folks at the dealership to get Symonds' name and number. Left him a VM afternoon of 16 Jun, also left VM with Inghilterra. Trying to resolve this at lowest level possible but noone returns calls. (to be fair to Terry I, just left him a VM a hour ago).
Ultimately, I get it, buyer beware, especially with used vehicles. However, I'd expect better customer service and standards from a Volvo/Cadillac dealership, and at a minimum, the basic courtesy of a return phone call within 1 week. I could've purchased a vehicle with these issues and lack of customer service from a shady establishment and gotten a better price.
So, moral of the story is, don't blindly equate Rickenbaugh Cadillac/Volvo with higher/quality standards or customer service than any other dealership.
I'll make my way up their "chain" until someone talks to me. Will update this if there's decent resolution. Way to go Rickenbaugh--nice way to treat a military family member with limited budget. AND, I shared with Jesse that I had a 2018 Infiniti Hybrid (in perfect condition, way under mileage, easy sell) I was considering trading in for a Cadillac within a few months...won't be with this outfit.
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