This has been the most frustrating attempt I've ever had to give someone my money.
April 6:
I contacted Northstar Kia via their website about a used Ram ProMaster, noting I was out-of-state and requesting details and media since I couldn't visit. Their reply asked if I'd like to see a "Mitsubishi" today or tomorrow, ignoring my questions and situation. I clarified and reasked.
April 7:
Daisha Cepeda emailed a Carfax summary but didn't address my questions. I replied, still seeking answers.
Throughout, I got automated emails from Daisha, Nairoby Valverde, and Ludys Acosta, adding confusion. I responded each time, asking for updates. I expect Bibi Singh will reply to this review with apologies and his email, but I doubt this dealership can regain my trust.
April 15:
A text via their CRM finally included photos and video. I asked for pricing. The next day, Pierre Rothwell texted, offering to call. I said anytime; I just wanted numbers.
April 19:
I checked if the text number was active.
April 22:
I emailed for an update. Ludys called, saying the price with no trade/no financing was the Retail Price ($44,000) plus taxes, DMV, and a $175 doc fee--nothing else. I confirmed that with $3,000 in taxes/DMV, the out-the-door (OTD) price would be $47,175. She agreed, noting a sales manager would calculate exact taxes.
April 23:
An email said Pierre would reach out soon. He called that evening, saying the internet price included a $1,000 financing discount and a $2,500 trade-in discount. I said I could be there on the 26th if the numbers worked. He promised OTD numbers after consulting his sales manager.
April 24:
A text told me to contact Pierre's cell. I asked for an ETA on OTD numbers. He said his sales manager would provide them the next day.
April 26:
Pierre texted that the sales manager was working on it and would contact me soon. Later, I asked again. He replied: "The numbers are in: $54,500 OTD."
April 28:
I thanked Pierre but questioned the $54,500 OTD price, reminding him of Ludys' quote: vehicle price plus taxes, DMV, and $175 doc fee. I requested a breakdown. He said the van was priced at $47,995 (not $44,000 as before). I noted $54,500 minus $47,995 left $6,505 in taxes/fees and asked for clarification.
April 29:
I texted for an update. Pierre replied, "Taxes, tags, fees," and called. I asked for specifics, but he couldn't provide them, mentioning a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) and saying details would be on the buyer sheet when I was ready to buy. I insisted I needed numbers first. Later, I calculated taxes and fees for a $47,995 price at $3,257.95, leaving $3,247.05 unexplained. I asked what these "fees" were; Pierre said he'd inform his manager.
May 6:
I texted asking when the manager would respond. No reply.
I never got to negotiate the price. They have the van I want, but they don't seem to want to sell it. Caveat Emptor! read more