Three Bad Experiences - Extremely Disappointed with LaFontaine GMC…read more
In the 10 years I've used Yelp, I've only written two reviews. I understand that mistakes happen, and I'm generally a patient and understanding person. However, after three separate negative experiences with the same dealership, I feel it's worth speaking up.
First Experience - Attempting to Purchase a Truck
I was interested in purchasing a truck, but during the test drive, I noticed the vehicle was wobbling and the brakes were squeaking. After speaking with the sales manager, I was informed that they would be willing to fix the issues, but only if I put a deposit down first.
I simply asked if they could repair the vehicle before I committed to purchasing it. If the truck drove properly afterward, I would have been happy to move forward. Instead, the manager YELLED that I put money down before they would address the mechanical problems.
Second Experience - Truck Sold Without Communication
On another occasion, I test-drove a truck, expressed my interest in purchasing it, and made arrangements to return with my bank paperwork and financing documents.
I took time away from work and showed up the following day afternoon ready to complete the purchase, only to be informed that the truck had already been sold that morning.
There was absolutely no communication informing me of this beforehand. I understand vehicles can sell quickly, but a simple phone call would have saved me considerable time and frustration.
Third and Final Experience - Service Department
Today's experience was the final straw.
I'm not a mechanic, and I don't pretend to be one. That's precisely why I bring my vehicles to a dealership. I expect trained professionals to help identify mechanical issues and recommend the appropriate repairs.
Approximately a week ago, I scheduled a service appointment because I had been hearing unusual noises coming from underneath my truck. During the scheduling process, I explained that I wanted a technician to inspect the underside of the vehicle and identify anything that might need attention. I was perfectly willing to pay the dealership's hourly labor rate for an hour or hour and a half of inspection time.
I took the day off work specifically for this appointment.
When I arrived, however, there seemed to be an issue with the fact that I couldn't identify exactly what was wrong with the truck.
Isn't that the entire reason someone brings their vehicle to a professional service department?
If I knew exactly what was wrong with my truck, I wouldn't need to pay a dealership to diagnose it. I would either repair it myself or request the specific repair.
My expectations were straightforward: pay a qualified technician for their time to inspect the underside of my vehicle, identify potential mechanical problems, and provide recommendations for repairs. This was what I understood we had discussed when scheduling the appointment.
Instead, I was left frustrated, confused, and wondering why such a basic service request had become so difficult.
Final Thoughts
After three separate experiences involving questionable sales practices, poor communication, and disappointing customer service, I can confidently say I will not be returning to this dealership or any of its GMC locations.
I gave them multiple opportunities because I genuinely wanted to do business with them. Unfortunately, each experience left me more disappointed than the last.
A dealership carrying the GMC name should provide professionalism, communication, and customer service that customers can depend on.
If you're considering purchasing or servicing a vehicle here, I strongly encourage you to consider your options before investing your time or money.
For me, the repeated headaches and wasted time simply aren't worth it.
