I called McGrath Lexus of Chicago today, October 7, 2026, and initially spoke with a salesperson…read morenamed Juan. Juan took down my information and advised that a manager named Heather would contact me.
Heather called me shortly afterward. During our conversation, I explained that I was interested in purchasing a particular Lexus and asked whether I could be placed on a buyer or contact list in the event the vehicle is discounted later in the year. My understanding is that dealerships sometimes offer additional incentives or discounts toward the end of the year as inventory and model years change. I made it clear that I was not in a rush to purchase and that I was flexible regarding the vehicle's color.
Heather responded by discussing tariffs and explaining that prices were not necessarily expected to decrease. I understood her position, although I responded that manufacturers affected by tariffs may receive certain refunds or adjustments and that, in my opinion, a price difference of approximately $15,000 was difficult to justify. Regardless, my intention was simply to obtain the best possible deal, and I was perfectly willing to wait.
Had the conversation ended there, I would have had no issue whatsoever. Unfortunately, Heather's tone and conduct then became unnecessarily dismissive and disrespectful. She told me that perhaps I should consider buying an electric bicycle instead.
I found that comment extremely inappropriate, particularly coming from someone in a management position. I have already filed a formal complaint with Lexus Corporate under case number **261007000954**.
Had this been an isolated rude comment from a salesperson, I may have simply disregarded it. However, I believe a sales manager should be held to a significantly higher standard when interacting with customers. A manager represents not only the dealership but also the Lexus brand, and I did not expect to be spoken to in a belittling or condescending manner simply because I was attempting to negotiate the purchase price of a vehicle.
I introduced myself to Heather as Ali Shah, although my full name is Afaq Ali Shah. Given the nature and tone of the interaction, I was left concerned about whether my background or name played any role in the way I was treated. I cannot know Heather's motivation, but the interaction was troubling enough that I believe dealership leadership and Lexus Corporate should review it carefully.
This is a roughly $65,000 new vehicle, and I am also a returning customer. I live in Plainfield, Illinois, and there are numerous Lexus dealerships much closer to me. Nevertheless, my family's previous experience with McGrath Lexus in 2017 was so positive that I specifically wanted to return to the same dealership for this purchase.
That history makes today's experience particularly disappointing. Customers should be able to ask about pricing, discounts, or future incentives without being mocked or told that they should purchase an electric bicycle instead.
I am requesting that dealership ownership and senior management review this interaction, address the conduct internally, and provide me with a response regarding how this matter will be handled. I also believe Lexus should be aware of how customers are being treated by individuals placed in management positions at an authorized Lexus dealership.