My recent experience with Das Auto Carlot, particularly with the owner Mike, was extremely disappointing and stressful. I purchased a 2018 Nissan Pathfinder from the lot, and almost immediately after driving off, the check engine light came on. Mike directed me to two separate shops to have the issue fixed, but neither shop was able to resolve the problem. During this time, I made it clear to Mike that I am pregnant, with children already depending on me, and I urgently needed a reliable vehicle or at least a loaner while I waited. His solution was to offer to "go half" on a rental, but even then, he cheated me out of his portion of the payment.
When I realized the Nissan could not be repaired in a reasonable time, I asked for my money back. Instead of being straightforward, Mike attempted to return less than half of the $3,000 I had paid. He then tried to pressure me into taking an old Buick as a downgrade, which did not have the seating space I required for car seats. He promised that it would only be temporary until a Honda part came in, but when the part arrived, he refused to switch me into the vehicle as agreed.
Mike also made unethical demands, telling me that if I wrote him two positive online reviews, he would "work something out." I refused to be manipulated into writing fake reviews in exchange for service I was already owed. I kept thorough records of our interactions--text messages and recorded phone calls--so that I would have proof of how the situation was handled. If anyone doubts this, I am willing to provide evidence directly.
To make matters worse, I discovered that Das Auto was attempting to resell the Nissan Pathfinder after claiming it had been sent to auction. When I brought this up, I was immediately blocked. Shannon, another employee, was rude and unprofessional throughout the process, while Chad and Mike's brother were the only ones who attempted to handle things respectfully and fairly. Chad in particular tried to ensure I got my refund, but it was clear Mike was the one holding everything up.
Mike even went as far as to hold onto a check from Credit Acceptance that was in my name, and I later learned he had opened my mail without my permission, which is illegal. Only after my lawyer contacted the bank did Mike suddenly call me and claim my check was ready. This entire ordeal was stressful, manipulative, and dishonest.
If you are considering purchasing a car from Das Auto Carlot, I strongly urge you to reconsider. My experience showed a pattern of dishonesty, lack of accountability, and disrespect for customers' rights and needs. The only positive part of my interaction was with Chad and Mike's brother, who at least tried to do right by me. Unfortunately, the owner himself proved untrustworthy, and I would not recommend doing business with him read more
