Eastern Shore Hyundai & Toyota - Dishonest Sales Tactics & No Accountability
I recently purchased a 2016 Mini Cooper Convertible from Eastern Shore Hyundai and Toyota, and this has been the worst car-buying experience I've ever had. I was repeatedly assured by my salesperson, Anthony Fagan, that the vehicle was in excellent condition and well cared for. That turned out to be far from the truth.
Day 2 of ownership: The battery died, and I had to pay $280 for AAA to replace it. A dead battery that soon after purchase raises serious concerns about the so-called "great condition" of this car.
Serious Transmission Warning Ignored: Before buying, I noticed a message on the dash stating, "Transmission: Secure vehicle with parking brake when stopped. Consult service center." I asked Anthony about it, and he brushed it off as a "standard message for Minis" because "they like the e-brake on when parked." That was a blatantly ignorant response. Once I took the car home and actually read the full warning, it was clear this was a serious issue.
When I reached out, Anthony initially told me the dealership would take care of it and provide a rental. That quickly changed when I spoke to the service department. The service manager refused to fix it, claiming I bought the vehicle as is. The sales manager told me to figure out the problem myself first. After investigating, I discovered the warning was due to dangerously low brake fluid.
How did this car pass inspection?
* The battery was completely dead after one day.
* The brake fluid was almost empty, which is a major safety issue.
* A transmission warning was displayed even before I bought it.
This was the third vehicle I've purchased from this dealership, and I've referred multiple people to them in the past. But that ends today. This dealership clearly prioritizes quick sales over customer safety and trust.
No Accountability & Deceptive Paperwork:
* Anthony stopped responding to me completely.
* Sales manager Mani is friendly but just tells you what you want to hear with no follow-through.
* The service manager couldn't care less.
* They claim I purchased the car as is, yet there is no signed documentation confirming this in my paperwork. A blank form in my glove box suggests they were supposed to disclose this, but it was never completed or presented to me.
Had I been told this was an as is sale, I would have asked to see all of the service documents on the vehicle and asked about an extended warranty. I even emailed Darrick Heath before buying, outlining concerns about purchasing a used vehicle. Instead of transparency, they saw my questions as an opportunity to make an easy sale, yet they never even attempted to sell me an extended warranty. I've attached screenshots of that email as well.
Darrick was the only honest person I interacted with, but everyone else at this dealership is a snake in the grass. I would never buy another car here again, nor will I recommend them to anyone. If you value integrity, safety, and customer service, stay far away from Eastern Shore Hyundai & Toyota. read more