I am a Roanoke resident and have always gone to AutoZone for my car part needs. This past week, my headlight went out and although I was on the other side of the DFW decided to visit my neighborhood AutoZone because of the excellent service I had received the last time the opposite light went out. Last time, about three years ago, I can still remember the excellent service the young Hispanic man provided me with, taking his time to show me the products and even offered to replace the light for me! He wouldn't even accept a tip! I have bragged about this place and have sent people over.
On my last visit, a manager, I am assuming by his uniform and frankly his age, treated me like an idiot who was wasting his time. I know my car and about cars and have always been given the chance to express that at Auto Zone. This time, I was giving him my car information when he asked me a question that I didn't understand because I didn't hear him well. When I asked him, " Can you repeat that? " he said " Well, since you don't know, I'll be right back." He rushed off into the store, not the back, so I followed him (wanting to confirm it is the right part and more importantly, accompany him in the favor he is doing me). He grabbed the part like he was in a rush, kept his back to me the whole time and didn't show me what it was or let me see it, quickly rang it up and gave me my total. I felt so rushed and like I was inconveniencing him. I don't expect to be treated sweetly and have things sugar coated to me at an auto part store, but the attitude and lack of cooperation I received from this man was totally unprecedented. Customer service is a part of EVERY industry and before being an auto parts place, AutoZone is a STORE and part of the RETAIL industry. Have some common courtesy and manners. At the time, I figured that was his personality type and didn't make a deal about it, until I got home and realized IT WAS THE WRONG FREAKING PART. If you are going to be arrogant, have a reason to be.
A review left just by Ms. Beth S. a few days ago says it best: "Not impressed with customer service or Competency."
I can bet we had similar experiences. If this man is in fact a manager, I advise he undergo some serious training or a replacement. Management sets the tone and this is not a tone any place should take pride in. I will now go out of my way to visit the Autozone in Arlington on Division where a Ms. Erica was VERY informative, helpful, and while she was clearly busier, offered to help me install the part. This review does not reflect my opinions of AutoZone as a company but rather the Roanoke branch. read more