Absolutely the worst car-buying experience I've had in 25 years of driving…read more
I purchased a used Cadillac Escalade from Bill Estes Chevrolet in Lebanon, Indiana, hoping for a safe and reliable vehicle for myself and my three kids. What I received was a misrepresented, overpriced vehicle with immediate mechanical problems and no accountability when things went wrong.
Within 100 miles, the check engine light came on. The vehicle began misfiring. I immediately contacted the dealership, asked about returning it, and was told there was nothing to worry about. I brought it in for diagnosis and after being told it would be about $6,000, I received a quote for nearly $10,000 for repairs. After questioning, that number dropped to $6,000, then $3,500, then eventually to $0. None of it made sense, and I was given no written explanation of any repairs or warranties.
At one point, the dealership returned the vehicle to my home without my consent and left the keys in my mailbox. I still hadn't received documentation or any formal warranty. My trusted mechanic later confirmed that the brakes were dangerously low and the rear suspension needed major repairs--issues that should have been caught before sale.
Despite multiple attempts to resolve the issue respectfully and through the proper channels, including the Indiana Attorney General's office, I was eventually offered $4,000 on the condition that I stay silent and withdraw all complaints. I declined.
I spent months in a borrowed vehicle and months without a reliable vehicle, while continuing to make loan payments and pay full insurance coverage. The check engine light has come on again since the supposed repairs were completed. I still don't know exactly what was done to the vehicle or whether it's even safe to drive.
Throughout the process, I experienced shifting stories, incomplete records, vague promises, and no real accountability--not just from the local dealership but from Asbury Automotive Group, the publicly traded parent company.
This experience has caused enormous stress, wasted time, and financial loss. I am sharing this because I believe consumers deserve transparency and honesty--especially when making major purchases that affect their families and daily lives.
I hope this helps someone else avoid the same pain and frustration. I would not recommend doing business with Leo/Bill Estes Lebanon or any affiliated dealership without having everything in writing, verified independently, and fully documented before signing anything.
