Buyer Beware:
Had a rather pleasant initial experience with Platinum AutoSales that quickly took a bad turn. In summary, this is a typical used car lot with high pressure sales. After being lied to directly to my face, I'd say continue shopping for that perfect vehicle by taking your business elsewhere.
Here's my experience:
I've been looking for a decent used vehicle to tow my boat. After searching for some time, I came across Platinum AutoSales in Lacey WA. They had a 2007 Ford Expedition listed online for $7,400. I decided to briefly swing through after picking my son up from school to get eyes on the vehicle to determine if it might be worth my time. Upon my arrival I was quickly greeted by a gentlemen name Leo. Pointing to what I believed to be the correct vehicle, I asked if that was the one online listed for $7,400 as the vehicle in the lot had a sign hanging from the rearview listing it $7,900.
He said he believed so and pulled a sheet of paper out of his pocket.
I saw the entire sheet and saw the vehicle was indeed listed at $7,400. But DID NOT discuss any pricing with Leo. I told Leo I had made an offer for a similar vehicle and was waiting for a reply but that I may be back. That was the end of my interactions with Leo.
I returned home, showed my wife the vehicle online and we agreed I'd offer $6,500 cash if they'd take it. I emailed the "Contact Us" link asking if the vehicle was available to test drive and if they'd be willing to accept $6,500 cash. I received a response from staff member Sophia (presumably the General Manager/Owners spouse) with a few pleasant replies indicating they were willing to accept the $6,500 and I could come test drive the vehicle.
I went back to Platinum AutoSales, spoke with Sophia about the test drive and was introduced to "L.J." presumably the General Manager/Owner, signed a release for test drive, and drove the vehicle a few miles home so I could show my wife. We agreed $6,500 was a fair price and that we'd wait until the morning to make the purchase. Basically, give it the night to think it over.
I spoke to a friend who's an Expert on all things "Ford" and trusted source. He told me to check the coils and send him a picture of them but assured me the 2007 Expeditions were great vehicles.
This is where things got interesting. I pulled back into Platinum AutoSales and was quickly greeted by L.J. I explained that I needed a couple pictures and then would take the night, but be back in the morning to purchase the vehicle.
This is when L.J. informed me that Leo made a "BIG MISTAKE" in authorizing the sale for $6,500, that I could plainly see the price was $7,900 (price tag in the window) and again, Leo and I NEVER spoke about $$$. So, L.J. trying to be the savor/good guy informed me he would honor the "Mistake" only if I purchased the vehicle right now. That if I passed tonight, upon my return tomorrow, the "Absolute lowest he could go would be $7,500." Although the vehicle is listed online for $7,400. What he was attempting to do was a bait and switch sales tactic snakes' use. He had the sell, no need to strong arm me, I just wasn't willing to make the split-second purchase.
At this point, knowing that L.J. had just lied to my face (remember, online the vehicle is $7,400, the sheet Leo had it listed at $7,400, and Sophia NOT Leo agreed to the $6,500 cash offer. But again the lowest/best L.J. could do in less than 16hrs was $100 more than the listing price and $1,000 more than the agreed upon price ). I told L.J. "hard pass" and left the lot. This seemingly friendly lot needs to get its story straight before lying to potential customers. In closing, I write this review as a cautionary tale. If the General Manager/Owner is willing to bold face lie to me to force a purchase, just think what he'd tell someone (a.k.a. YOU) in order to make another sale. I'd play it safe with your $$$ and future vehicle purchase by taking your business elsewhere. Screen Shots below. read more