Do all Lincoln/Mercury dealers suck?

[cmh17]

Hi everyone,

I've been a lurker on this board and am about ready to take the plunge on a new car. The Marauder is one that definitely has my attention. I've been visiting the local M/L dealers and frankly have been disgusted with the treatment that I've received from them. Today's experience has just about put me where I will NEVER consider a L/M product.

This happened at Stu Evans L/M in Garden City, MI. When I went into the showroom, there was a salesguy sitting by the door. In the whole showroom there was maybe one other family there - in other words, they were not even busy. He asked if he could help me. When I told him I wanted to check out a Marauder, he said in a sarcastic tone "so you wanna sit in it, get prices, or what??" I replied that I wanted to sit in one (have never really had the chance to) and drive one. Then he gets up, says that they don't have one to drive but they have one I can sit in. That's fine I said. He leads me over to it, (it also had a aftermarket sunroof in it - with $1700 charged for it :confused: ) and I opened it and sat in it. Now normally I would expect that someone selling something would talk a little, maybe show the client some features about the car or how things in it work - but he did none of that. Instead, he leaned up against another car in the showroom with his arms folded and stared off into space. The sunroof seemed to cut a LOT of headroom off in the car, so I asked him if the roof was the reason that it didn't seem to have much room in it. He didn't even bother to look at me before mumbling "yeah". Finally I stared back at him for a while before he finally looked back over at me. I got out and he said "Is that it?" My reply was that I would shop at a dealer and with someone that would actually show me the car. He said that's fine and I left. When I was driving out of the dealership, I called the General Manager of the dealership and gave him the story - and how disgusted and disappointed I was to be treated in such a fashion at a place that is suppossed to be selling higher end cars. He agreed that the salesclown was way out of line and promised to speak with him about this.

This wouldn't have been so bad if it wasn't par for the course. The first L/M dealer I went into wouldn't even wait on me. The second one didn't have the car and blew me off after saying so. I know I'm on the younger side of their demographics (28) - but I'm clean cut, drive a decent car already, and work as an assistant manager at a bank - a fact that I told the GM of the above dealer and promised him that I would tell all my business cleients who drive those same cars about my experience.

Sorry for the ramble, and sorry that my first post is a negative one - but is this typical at these dealerships? I'm this close to buying a used (dare I say it here) Lexus or BMW instead because at both of those dealers, the experience was nothing short of spectacular. Or am I just expecting too much to expect to have an expensive product explained and demonstrated to me before I plunk down $30,000+ like the other luxury car dealers? Because I can't help but wonder if this is how I am treated when I buy the car, how will I be treated when I get the car serviced.......

[WolfeBros]

cmh17.......don't let the bastages get to you. I just hope that someone from LM browses thru this site from time to time. It really is a shame how some of these dealerships treat people and their lack of knowledge about the product. My advice is to keep going from dealer to dealer until you find one that is WORTHY of your business. Don't let the a-holes
keep you from a great car.

When your done.....write another letter.....this time to as high up a person as you can find in the LM chain. Good luck in your quest and report back to us !

[Matt Johnson]

I experienced the same kind of attitude at a few dealerships before I found the one where I bought my car. Lucky for me, I had done all the research and knew that I wanted the MM, so I didn't need anyone to sell it for me. In fact, I knew more about the car than most of the dealerships did. I didn't care how I was treated, as long as I got the price I was looking for - which I did. However, the MM is the first American car (I know, I know...it's assembled in Canada) that I've ever purchased and I was suprised by the backwards-a** attitude of the LM dealerships.

I also own a Lexus (my wife drives an RX-300) and that sales experience was incredible. The service, etc., pride in the product unequalled.

Bottom line, though, don't let crappy salesmen and a dealership (or complete brand of autos that seem to be stuck in time) deter you from buying this car. Do your research, know what price you want, and go get one!

[Mad1]

Not to stick up for dealers, but my experience has been pretty wonderful.

I wasn't looking to buy a MM when I started looking. I went to the LM dealer to test drive a Cougar and Crown Vic, then just asked off hand if they had any MM. (Like most, I'd seen them on the Web site, but hadn't heard anything about them ... No buzz.)

So I mentioned I wanted to check one out if they had one in stock. The salesman was friendly and a fairly knowledgable guy, who admitted when he didn't know something rather than trying to BS his way past me.

After taking the MM down a city street and a short hop on the interstate; Bam! I was in love.

We even got into a minor parking lot accident while going to get gas. The sales guy was driving (thank goodness) and someone pulled in behind us at the pumps way to fast. No damage and we barely felt the bump.

Every car I'd test drove in my search was then measured against the MM and failed miserably. I bought mine about a week later. (Oh yeah. I made sure it wasn't the one we test drove ... checked the VINs.)

Anyway, every dealership was a little different. Keep trying you're bound to find a good one ... eventually.

[merc406]

Their are some great dealers in our area, try Bob Maxey's in Detroit or Roseville, have had a good experience with them before. We hope you will buy a Marauder, it's a great car.:beer: :rock:

[jgc61sr2002]

Welcome aboard - Had a similar expericnce. Went into the showroom and a salesperson was sitting at a desk, he never even looked up from his news paper. There were no MM's on the floor so I looked at a GM. Opening and closing the door the sales person never looked up from his paper. Needless to say I didn't buy my MM there. I don't know how the expect to sell cars. All dealers are not the same, and as far as info,on the MM most are clueless. The MM is a great car. Test drive it and you will probably be hooked. John :) PS This is a great site thanks to Logan and LML.

[CRUZTAKER]

Let's hope your Michigan bretheren point you toward a good Dealership.

I was known at the dealership I bought at, so there was no confusion as to what the salesmans, or my intentions were. It was like buying something at a flea market. But this dealer is 50 miles away.

My local dealership, 6.5 miles away: The salesfolks AND the GM there are pompous f#%ks that I would NEVER deal with.

BUT, their service department has a combined 350 years of experience, do quite a nice job, and are friendly. Even with my CONSTANT returns for warranty work (where I did not even buy). How embarrasing is that. They tolerate me as well as I tolerate them.

Trick was, I gave them all slowpoke pens and pads......seemed to work!

:banana:

[UncleLar]

Sorry to hear about your experience at the dealership,I've bought 4 cars directly from the same saleslady at one dealer,and my new 2003 Expedition I got from a Ford dealer and salesman she recommended to me. She is also gave me the GM/MM and Lincoln Blackwood dealers training videos,4 tickets every year to the Chicago Auto Show,makes sure I get a nice GM or Towncar loaner,and tons of extras I won't list here.She's steered me away from questionable used cars and pointed out that one I was looking at was extra nice and I could "steal it" from them. I did,I was only in for an oil&filter change,drove in owning 2 cars,drove out owning 3,ha,and I'm single. Service there is always first rate,non-warranty work isn't cheap,but it's done correctly the first time,no padded bills and I still get a free loaner if I bought the car there. I'll have the "stolen"one with me tomorrow at Dell Rhea's if you want to see it,and anyone who's interested can get the saleslady's name and number from me.

[martyo]

Went to my dealer today because I have been missing a part from my car since I took delivery 5 weeks ago. (Before going on, I made about 7 calls to the dealership with not a single return call). They still didn't have the part, but I figured it would be harder for them to lie to me in person!!

Meanwhile, I think I sold another MM to a customer who had just driven into the lot. The salesdope seemed to be just as happy to let me do all of the work.

Go figure.

[2003_MM_FYRE49]

Hi CMH17,

Look at my post in The Lounge " So mad I can't see straight." I really don't think Mercury cares how their dealerships treat the customers. After my experience dealing with the St. Charles, IL dealer I called the Mercury Customer Service 1-800 number and all they said was I'm sorry to hear about what happend but we can't really do anything except send a letter to the dealership principle. I asked him what exactly was the purpose of this customer service line if they can't do anything about what happend to me, and was told by the C.S. rep that I would have to contact a lawyer if I wanted to get anything done. So as far as customer service, I really don't think there is any. The only thing you can do is keep searching for a good one. They are few and far inbetween but I'm certain they can't all be as bad as I've experienced. I just go in with the attitude now that I'm dealing with s***bags, and do the best I can.

Tim

[jgc61sr2002]

Originally posted by martyo
Went to my dealer today because I have been missing a part from my car since I took delivery 5 weeks ago. (Before going on, I made about 7 calls to the dealership with not a single return call). They still didn't have the part, but I figured it would be harder for them to lie to me in person!!

Meanwhile, I think I sold another MM to a customer who had just driven into the lot. The salesdope seemed to be just as happy to let me do all of the work.

Go figure. Marty - Hope you made the commission. Yea right. The sales people need :help: John:)

[JamesHecker]

I am lucky enough to know a really nice guy that has just happened to have sold me 5 Mercurys. The Dealership has changed hands since I first bought there, but the salesman is a straight shooter, very pleasant and no B.S.! The service department has gone through a lot of changes. Sometimes they have been good, sometimes they have sucked! Right now they are not too bad. Steve Sherwood at Magic Lincoln Mercury in Valencia, CA is a great peson to buy from.

A service writer I met there 6 years ago, Mike Hess, is now at Sunrise Ford in North Hollywood, CA. He is the one that is going to hook me up with the supercharger, the gears, a moonroof, etc. He is also the kind of guy that will treat you with respect and do a great job for you!

Like any sales or service related industry, it is rare to find exceptional service. That's what makes it exceptional. It would be nice though if we could just count on at least competant help. Alas, that is not often the case.

The best thing to do is to be referred by someone that has had a good experience. Lacking that, don't settle. Keep looking till you find someone that knows what they are doing and treats you right.

[joflewbyu2]

on a lighter note, i tried selling an 2002 Acura 3.2 TL-S to a gentleman last Saturday. agreed on price and payment and pulled credit. he had slight problem in the past (credit wise) that kept me from getting an instant approval via network input. i needed to talk to a live person at the bank on Monday to get an approval for him. explained myself fully to him and did all paperwork. deal was no money down so i did not collect a deposit. called him monday afternoon to find out he bought a car somewhere else. he told me that he thought i lied when i said i needed to talk to the bank on Monday. anyways, he bought a 2003 dodge neon for $18,000 and got ripped off at 15% interest and extended warranty and now pays $425 a month. he should have listened to me. i had him approved at 4.9% on an acura.

[Patrick]

First I wouldnt buy a car from a dealership that had salesman that had that attitude:po: . Can you imagine the service if you had a prob and had to bring it back for sumtin!!!:flamer: . I have been buying cars from Mullinax LM for the last 14 yrs. Its in TN, long drive! There motto is "Service is Stanard Equpment" Cant beat that! An they live up to it. Hell I go there for cup of coffe (decaff) once a month to just to say hi. Sorry to carry on> But my Point is I hope you find a dealership that will give you a good price and service after the sale. I hope you find one! patrick

[Sidney]

Danger! Check that MM with the sunroof out . If it has miles on it don't take it. It is probably the one I returned with the aftermarket sunroof. I bought my MM from their last month and had a unpleasant time. After I drove it, the engine was thumping and I requested another car. I hate Stu Evans. They won't take me serious when I told them about this. Also had a saleman tell me that he couldn't wait till one of us black guys put some big rims on one. It was offensive since he just decided to stereotype me cause of my race. I am a better man so I just walked away till my dealer was free. They also tried to over charge me for a spoiler. If the vin is 2MEHM75V33X664463, that was mine. From now on, I just go there to use up my free oil changes.

[CRUZTAKER]

Originally posted by martyo
I think I sold another MM to a customer......The sales dope seemed to be just as happy to let me do all of the work.
Go figure.

How wierd is that? I have done that!!!;)

The sales people at my local dealer hate it when I mo-ze into the show to kill time.........
:lol:

[nexstar7]

yes , they do

[cmh17]

Thanks for all the input guys. I don't expect to find good salespeople in any field very often (like James said - that's what makes exceptional service exceptional) but I certainly didn't expect THIS. Especially not after going to a BMW and Lexus store. I mean, 3 out of 3 is pretty bad. Oh well - I'll keep trying. I'm a month or so out anyway.

And Sidney - that was the car. It had about 164 miles on it and the VIN matches the VIN on their website for the available car. That's too funny. No wonder it was parked in the showroom and no one could drive it. The really funny thing is - if you go to their website www.stuevansgardencity.net and do a search, it pulls that car up as a $36xxx Grand Marquis Premium with a 2.73 axle. I should have looked there first. Seeing that they don't even know what it is, how could I have expected to have a intelligent conversation with them?

Don't worry - I won't give up yet then. This car does appear to have a lot of bang for the buck seeing as how I can get a new one of these for what a used [insert favorite luxury brand here] would cost.

Thanks again for the input!

[cmh17]

Oh and Sidney - I can't believe you didn't totally throttle the guy who made that rude and insensitive remark. What a joke of a place :mad:

[Katmandu]

And Sidney - that was the car. It had about 164 miles on it and the VIN matches the VIN on their website for the available car.
If they are trying to sell this car as NEW, that is MAJOR FRAUD !!!:nono: :nono:

[Sidney]

That is the car because I bought with 5 miles and they put 35 driving to install roof. Once I recieved it, I put about 86 more miles on it. Was the guy sitting at the first or second desk at the east entrance?

[Sidney]

You are not alone with age problem cmh 17. I am 29, and look 20. Therefore, I have these problems all the time. Married with wife and child, and still can't get respect from some elders. My money spends also! This is my first buy since all others were leases, and the experience sucked. Just using up my free oil changes and my MM will find a new home for service. However, have patience and hang in there. I hope your future experiences get better.

[Hack Goby]

Have been to Stu Evens North(Hall Rd. Clinton Twp.) they have at least 10 in the lot plus a blue one inthe showroom,because I was just looking it was hard to get anybody to talk too.When I did get a young lady to talk to she realy didnt have a clue about the car ,rebates or lease info(First day on the job?) and all the other salesmen are busy(The showroom was empty).Now ay Crest L/M in Sterling Hgt. they only had two(not preped) but the saleman there claimed he was the the Marauder King said he had sold five this month(I must have come in looking like a ringer)He talked my ear off for a good half hour even went out and looked at my Crown Vic even though he knew I was just looking and then sent me on my way with a handfull of Brouchures and cards to tell all my friends Plus he seem to know what he was talking about. But then agian he was a salesman.(RAMBLE,RAMBLE)Bottem line to me is lots of internet info so when you go in you can stop them in there tracks when they start handing you a line.

[Katmandu]

Originally posted by Sidney
That is the car because I bought with 5 miles and they put 35 driving to install roof. Once I recieved it, I put about 86 more miles on it. This is a USED car!!!

Gonna be REAL interesting to see if this Dealership pushes this car off as "NEW" and commits MAJOR FRAUD!!!

[cmh17]

Sidney - it was the first guy at the east entrance. His name was John something the fourth.

That's good to know about the dealer in Clinton Township. Thanks Hack! I'll try there next week then.

I would LOVE to see them sell the car new - seeing as how it has already been titled once. How long did you own it Sidney? Because if it was more than a few days, they couldn't have gotten the paperwork back from the state in time to stop it from being titled legally. Oh this is too funny :)

[cmh17]

Well, I just zapped an email to the FTC about the car being previously owned with links to here and the car on the dealers website advertising the car as new. Serves em right. Maybe next time they will think before pulling a stunt like that again :D

[Hack Goby]

OH YA! This is gonna be some kind of Soap opera,"As the dealer squirms" sould make for some good reading:fire: :nono:

[RCSignals]

It is possible they hadn't even submitted the paperwork before they took the car back. I've heard of dealers sitting on the paperwork to title a car two weeks or more before sending it to a DMV.

[martyo]

That's what happened with mine. When I went to get my custom plates, the DMV advised me that the dealer had not yet submitted the paperwork several weeks later. Go figure!

[Katmandu]

It is possible they hadn't even submitted the paperwork before they took the car back. I've heard of dealers sitting on the paperwork to title a car two weeks or more before sending it to a DMV. No doubt RC.

The fact remains that this is STILL A USED CAR!!

This needs reported to the Michigan State Attorney General's office as well!

Keep us posted MI guys!

[CRUZTAKER]

OUCH:flamer:OUCH



Now THIS is good reading.........

[BRSMERC]

Hello All:

There are good dealers out there. I have never taken a breath since joining this forum to say hello and what a great one it is! I had bought my Marauder and then went looking for a forum to help with some common problems. This one answered all my concerns.
Getting back to my dealer experience, let me digress a bit first. I was an ardent Jeep owner and still have one. I had a 2001 Grand Cherokee in which the dealers could never get the climate control to work properly and I never liked the styling of the model year. I reasoned a new one would be a fix (having been a Jeep fan) and went into negotiations with the dealer. Here I am with a problem with their Jeep and I am ready to buy a new one and they insult me with a ridiculous deal. I thought, "This is enough to buy a Ford!" and I did (sorry Mercury)! My love affair with Chrysler and their new masters had ended.
So I went over to the Ford dealer after an unimpressive stop at the GM dealer. The salesman at the door introduced himself and we talked briefly about my expectations in a vehicle and with my leanings towards a large touring automobile. He suggested taking a car for the day was the way to go. He did not have a Grand Marquis on the lot, said he would call, and we parted company.
He phoned a week or two later and said he had a Grand Marquis and a Marauder. What's a Marauder? On Saturday myself and my wife headed for the dealership. The Marauder was in the showroom and I was smitten with it. We tried out the Thunderbird and the Grand Marquis. The Thunderbird was too small for my long body and the Marquis had no appeal.
Got back to the dealer and conveyed my feelings on all three. They rolled out the Marauder and wow. It only had 1 or 2 km on it. I was really taken with it and at the end of the day it was mine. I met everyone from the owner to the most junior salesman that day. They all wanted me to enjoy the car and seemed very sincere. Since then, they all say hello and how's the Marauder.
There were a few bumps and grinds getting proper wheels and snow tires but the sales department backed me up and all was made right.
I think I have made a short story long but you get the idea. There are good people out there if you look hard enough and what a machine they have hidden out there.

Brian

[studio460]

This is really only a test post . . .

But, I agree . . . the sales support side of Ford/Lincoln Mercury needs work.

[Effster]

CAR DEALERS SUCK! Im having a real bad time right now doing a deal for an lincoln ls.6 dealers and they all want to either get over on you,,or have such an attitude that i walk out.hey L/M if you are reading these forums,,,WHAT GIVES?????Get some new help in the showrooms,,you might even see some profit rise from it

[Bigdogjim]

They sure were not ready to sell a "preformance" car! They could take a page or two from Honda, Toyota...
Big Dog

[B-26]

Car salesmen or persons are a different breed. They want your money. If you are satisfied too thats ok.If not it is too bad. If the MSO has not been processed and the mileage is correct they can call it new. Like an annulled marriage.Tried out but not titled. My experience here in Florida hasn't been great with the service people either. I hate to take the car in for service. I bought the car from the dealer himself. I don't see him when I go in for service. I love the car. The chip has made it almost what it should have been. I think LM has given up on it because it isn't selling like hot cakes.$$$$ once again.

[SHAGGY]

After reading all the posts i have to apologize for my profession. I have been in the auto business for almost 15 yrs, most of it with Lincoln Mercury, and have worked with my share of a%$**^ls that give us all a bad name. I have also worked with some outstanding people who really take care of the customer. My best advice would be to shop around until you find someone that you can tell loves to talk about the Marauder, as they will want to sell as many of them as possible so the line stays with us. As for me personally, I have driven a Marauder from the day they came out. Despite the fact that i have a company car, i purchased a Marauder just so i could drive one any time i wanted. I firmly believe that anyone that gets to know the car will absolutely love it. My dealership has sold roughly 15-20 MM's, and i believe its because i love the product so much that my salesman learned about it and got excited about selling it. I am actually getting a little low on MM inventory, and just ordered another group of them, including our first silver one. Without trying to sound as if im soliciting business, anyone interested feel free to message me and i can get in touch with you. Sorry this post seemed to ramble on so long, but i felt i had to reply that the auto biz, just like every other biz in the world, has its share(well probably more than its share) of jerk offs, there are some good ones out there also, shop until you find someone youre comfortable with and will give you the service you DESERVE! Thanks for your time guys, and HAPPY MOTORING!!

[joflewbyu2]

i find it hard to believe that the majority of experiences are bad due to the salesperson. the buyer that is an a-hole leaves without a car. the prospect that walks in and says "who wants to sell a car" don't buy and the others that say "just looking" usually do.

[SHAGGY]

Well Joe theres no doubt that some customers make it a little tough to love them, but I grew up being trained the customer is ALWAYS right, and it is THEIR money to spend. My feeling is you treat them right and try to earn their biz no matter if theyre a jerk or not. They are our livelyhood.

[Smokie]

I'm adding my experiences here in the hope that something positive will result if this forum is being viewed by someone at Ford-L/M that actually cares to improve the buying experience and service after the sale.
1). The first 3 L/M dealers I went to, the salesperson was totally ignorant about the Marauder and the only information I recieved was that I could buy the car for sticker price. the 4th dealer also ignorant about the car wanted sticker plus $1000. this was first week of july-2002.

2). Went on line to secure quotes from dealers out of town. 2 dealers offered competing offers and finally a dealership about 30 miles from home made an offer I found acceptable ( high by todays standards).

3). They treated my wife and I very well and I waited until a new car arrived (11 miles) the one I test drove had about 100 and a couple scratches. I was very pleased with the sales experience.

4). Tooked my car back to dealer after one month with minor problem and some questions about the car. I was told the problem was not repairable (they are all like that) response. And total ignorance in regard to questions and very rude treatment by assistant service manager.

Buying the MM. is a decision I don't regret for a moment. The car has given me back the joy of driving simply for it's own sake. As to whether I ever again do business with Ford Motor Co. I don't know, they have serious problems at their L/M dealerships.

[Katmandu]

If the vin is 2MEHM75V33X664463

Anyone know the status of this car ??

[cmh17]

It's not listed as being in inventory on the dealers website anymore....

[LincMercLover]

Maybe because you're not in his inventory anymore? Just a thought...
:lol:

[engine23ccvfd]

Dealers are like a Denny's sometimes the eggs are good and sometimes they are a greasy pile....

I was lucky I had an eager salesman and Gasp a very responsive service manager!

[BUDJIM]

As a 14 year veteran of the automobile industry I am in awe at the previous read "opinions", although I have not been in a sales positon for many years I still keep it fresh in my mind that the salesmen (women) are out there on an average of 10 to 12 hours every day (including Sunday) dealing with the total lack of respect from customers, the abuse of their Managers and the "I'll be back" from countless amount of people who never had the intentions of ever returning. Not to mention the time away from there spouses and children. Granted, we choose our careers and we all have to deal with some sort of bull regardless of what career you have. Contrary to the previous "opinions" Lincoln Mercury employees go through continuous extensive training on Customer satisfaction, Each day they kiss their spouse and children goodbye for the day and drive to work thinking of what they need to do to "earn" the business of a prospect the day before, but guess what, it all starts all over again! Next time you tell a salesperson that you will be back think of him or her standing by the window waiting, and waiting, not taking another customer because you promised that you would be back, Now tell me one more time, who is the dishonest one?

[sailsmen]

I have been in sales for most of my life, inlcuding auto products.

Most Auto Dealers are reputable and customer oriented. The percentage of dishonest dealers is too high, in our area my guess based on personnel experience is over 25% are dishonest.

Unfortunately this taints the car buying experience resulting in a lot of jaded/untrusting car buyers.

One example that comes to mind was a large new car dealer who financed their floor plan with a local bank. They also placed loans with the same local bank on vehicles they sold. Their floor planned in loans in far excess of their actual inventory, i.e. stole it from the bank.

When the bank would come by to do inventory they would notify customers of cars they sold they had to bring it in for service under false pretenses to be on the lot for the bank.

The sad thing is the bank repoed the cars from the owners who were current on their payments to the same bank because the dealer never paid the bank.

It made the local news paper and was in a series of articles.

[BUDJIM]

Read the paper and you will see the amount of dishonesty we have in this world. It is not limited to any one profession. It is in Religion, Government, Stock Market etc. Being in the auto industry has allowed me to supply for my family honestly, not to mention getting a discount on my Marauder!

[sailsmen]

You are right Auto Dealers do not have a monopoly on dishonesty.

An Auto being owned by many and for most their second largest single purchase, the first being a home, magnifies the impact of the dishonest minority of Auto Dealers.

When my wife went to buy her first new car we went looking for an econo car. We went to 5 new car Auto Dealers and all 5 were dishonest. We went to a sixth who was a Ford Dealer who was honest and in less than 10 minutes agreed on a price and bought the car.

[TripleTransAm]

Originally posted by BUDJIM
... the salesmen (women) are out there on an average of 10 to 12 hours every day (including Sunday) dealing with the total lack of respect from customers, the abuse of their Managers and the "I'll be back" from countless amount of people who never had the intentions of ever returning.


Just came across this post... had to respond.

I've walked into many dealerships, kicked a lot of tires, talked with a lot of salesfolk and researched the H*** out of every car I've ever bought. I can honestly say that in all that time, I've never really seen anyone come into a showroom and openly mistreat a salesperson. Seems most folks walk into a dealership knowing it'll be a big financial decision they'll be making.

On the contrary: I owned a 1992 Integra GS bought from a 'reputable' Acura dealer, that had been entirely reconstructed from the door back using putty. Bought used for a premium price. Salesperson is now an EX friend, I lost tons of money on that POS. I've talked to other Acura dealers about a new 3.2 TL Type-S... loads of pressure tactics and no discounts on a 'demo'.

Walked into a local Ford/Lincoln/Merc dealer and was almost laughed at when I mentioned a price that was quoted to me from another dealer. Salesperson held the attitude that he was doing me a favor by taking the time to crunch numbers using that 'ridiculous' figure. Another sales manager tried to convince me that deep scratches through the clearcoat and embedded dust in the base coat could be 'buffed out and would look great with a good wax". Another dealer claimed he'd beat any price out there... he offered me a 6500 mile MM for only $2000 Canadian off the price I got a new one for. etc. etc. etc.

On the flipside: in 1998 I walked into a Pontiac dealership, sat with a salesdude I never met before, he put it all on the table, no negotiations, we shook hands right then and there... my 1998 WS6. We still keep in contact, I occasionally drop by and we share whatever info we've picked up regarding the new models.

A few weeks ago, a Ford salesperson called me back after negotiating the best possible price with her manager for me. No further negotiations necessary, I went over and signed for the car (y'all remember THAT story, don't you?) instead of the other 'flawed' MM I was looking at. Result: my current MM.

I know everyone's trying to make a living on sales commissions but sometimes the honest approach brings dividends. The good sales people I've dealt with will receive further business from referrals from me, and I hope they will treat these people with the same respect they gave me.

[BUDJIM]

When I first considered the Auto Industry, I myself had a tainted opinion of the industry. The steriotype of the "used car salesman" did not appeal to me. It did take some time for my opinion to change, so I do understand how there are those with the opinions as they are. The steriotype has existed since Henry Ford rolled out that first Ford 100 years ago. There are plenty of Dealerships out here that do want to "earn" the business. Respect goes a long way, on both ends of the transaction.

[TripleTransAm]

Originally posted by BUDJIM
Being in the auto industry has allowed me to supply for my family honestly, not to mention getting a discount on my Marauder!


That is indeed something you should be proud of. As has been mentioned, the new car purchase is a major event in one's life. Consider that if the transaction goes well, the new owners will have fond thoughts of you and the whole experience each time they see the car. On the contrary, a sour experience will bring a bad taste to their mouths everytime they look at the car. For your honesty, you more than deserve the discount on your MM.

[RF Overlord]

My wife walked in to the dealership on a Friday, just to P/U a brochure. We went back on Saturday, told them we qualified for the X-plan, and ordered the car (wanted the Light Flint interior). That following Monday, the dealer called and said one of the 3 they had ordered had arrived; we took it for a test drive that evening. Went home, decided we didn't mind the Dark Charcoal, and called them on Tuesday to accept the car as is. We took delivery on Wednesday. Five days from brochure to driveway...not bad. My point is, at no time did the salesman try to pressure us, either for the sale, or for any "extras". The whole experience was very professional and straight-forward...I can't complain at all...

The same can NOT be said about my previous experience (with a different dealer), but if I tried to relate THAT story, it would probably crash the board (then Logan would be mad at me, again)...

[TripleTransAm]

Originally posted by RF Overlord
Five days from brochure to driveway...not bad.


Pretty good! Not counting the months of research and hanging out on this board, my current Ford dealer called me on Monday and by Thursday I was in possession of my MM. I initially called her, asked for a price, said "no thanks" when she wasn't able to beat the best price I had gotten over the phone. She called back a few hours later, after having negotiated with the sales manager, and beat the price by $200. Having already given the conditional nod to another dealer, I declined but after noting the paint flaws in the first MM we drove the 45 minutes to this dealer, kicked the tires, and the next day I went over and signed away my left testicle.

Her honest perseverance got her the sale, over which she was quite excited about.

It makes me just enjoy the car a lot more... (hopefully the service department will continue the streak...)

[RF Overlord]

Originally posted by TripleTransAm
the next day I went over and signed away my left testicle.



I did THAT when I got married... :help:

[LincMercLover]

Are we back talking about marbles AGAIN?

[BlackHole]

ON MARCH 31 2003 walked into the local L/M Nissan dealer about the MM Since I could get it for the same price of the new RX8 in base form $26,000 the stupid arragant sales person got in touch with me and immediatly asked if I had a trade in. What the pay off was and so forth. Then I said I had a 60 month loan on a 99 Alero. I knowed I owed right around $10 grand. Then he begain typing on his adding mach. and came up with a $11= grand as a pay off. I kept my mouth shut. Then we went out to look at my car and after a brief moment He said "I CAN't do it your payoff is to great." "I'm going to talk to this other customer." And left me there. I Was like WTF and got in my car and left went home and contacted Village Motors of Millersburg OH. And went over all they done was asked what I owed and how much I wanted and then test drove it and bought it all in the same night. Then the pay back Went to the Honda dealership that bought these dumb bozos out and ask to see the Owner and that I tried to buy it and the guy totally acted like I wasted his time. So I'm happy and got my $35 grand auto for $26 grand And to add insult to injury I finally contacted the owner and he asked if I wanted them to service it.:down: No I wasted your time and I don't want to waste any more.:po: And I'm 28 And seeing a pattern here
if your not retirement age forget about Mercury/Lincoln

[BlackHole]

P.S. If you want a very good dealer contact Village and tell them Chris Scheetz sent you. And sorry bought they'er last MM so they would have to order one.

[JamesHecker]

I strive to put the customer's needs ahead of my own in my business (mortgage, insurance, investments). That's why I have litteraly hundreds of repeat clients.

My Mercury salesman is the same way. That's why I've purchased 5 Mercurys from him and brought him several referrals.

If you want a pleasant buying experience and you live in Southern California, call Steve Sherwood at Magic Lincoln Mercury in Valencia.

[TripleTransAm]

Originally posted by JamesHecker
2003 Mercury Marauder
2002 Mercury Sable LS
1997 Mercury Cougar XR7
1997 Mercury Villager Nautica



Hey James, 4 Mercury's eh?
You don't want to buck the trend and get a Pontiac? (says the guy with 3 Pontiacs and one Mercury):lol:

[bchapman]

I was interested in both the Crown Vic Sport and the Marauder. The local Ford dealer - the sale manager, yet! - tried his strong-arm tactics on me and told me he wouldn't give me his best deal until he had a written commitment from me. I walked out, went across the street, and right there and then bought the Marauder from the exceptionally considerate, helpful LM salesman who had allowed me to test drive all the cars I wanted.

I immediately drove my new Marauder back to the Ford dealer and walked in to register a complaint with the sales manager. I said, "On behalf of my husband and all the other guys busting their butts down there on the line to make a great product, I don't appreciate your strong-arm sales tactics alienating the customers." He snidely said, "Well, YOU weren't ready to buy." I said, "Oh yes I was. That's MY Marauder sitting out in front."

If you have a problem with a dealer, please let Ford Motor Company know.

[BUDJIM]

The Mullinax group (Florida) is without a doubt the most professional and courtious auto dealer that I ever had the pleasure of associating with. They are family owned which deletes all the corporate bull. They demand honesty and professionalism from top of the ranks to the bottom.

[duhtroll]

I hate to add to the negative posts, but I have also had bad experiences with more than one dealer. Here in my hometown in Iowa, I have driven 2 new MMs and was very excited to discuss buying them. Since I am 32 I was basically treated like I didn't know what I was doing. I researched the car thoroughly and knew more than both salespersons did (even having them tell me things like "those tires are all the same size" and so forth)

When it came to the money I was really upset. Almost anyone can figure out that a $30K car financed for 60 months with nothing down and 0% comes out to $500/mo. When we got (haggled) the dealer price down around $28K with rebate, included my downpayment and trade, then all of a sudden the payment jumps to $565/mo???

I figured it out and came to the conclusion that dealer #1 was trying to screw me out of around $3200 after tax and title, etc. I no longer have to wonder why he kept "forgetting" to give me a copy of the worksheet.

Then when I mentioned the payment was too high he said "with the money you want to spend we should be looking at another car -- one you can afford" THAT *really* made me mad. Because I go in with the right price, they treat me like a cheapskate. I had mentioned nothing but the MM since I made contact with two of their sales reps, an now they are trying to steer me away from it. The invoice on those cars shows they have been on the lot since July 02, and in April 03 they are trying to screw me on them.

Now I know why they aren't selling!

So I call another LM dealer - one that my father represents, because he tells me they always have given him fair prices. They quote me a price on the phone, so I am thinking these guys might be better. $27,995 for a new one starting quote - not bad. (after rebate - could be better but its a start) Then I ask the mileage and find out it has been a demo for months and has 4300 miles on it (the owner's wife has been driving it). Then I express my displeasure that even though they can technically call this a new car (up to 6000 miles I think) that if I am going to make this investment I want to be the one to break in the engine (since it is the best/most important aspect of the car and the reason I am buying it).

I am then told "well with these new motors you don't really have to break them in anymore."

I hung up after politely saying thanks for the time.

Why do dealers immediately assume people are stupid? Do they get away with this crap most of the time? If so, why do they get pissed off when someone calls them on it?

I am going to wait a few weeks and find one at an auction rather than go to any of the dealerships around here. I have not found an honest person to deal with yet (for LM anyway - our Dodge dealership here has a great guy to deal with. It would be a shame if I waited for the new Hemi sedan coming out next year because the LM sales reps drove me away from the Marauder.)

That will be tough, because I know the MM was made for me, but it is very difficult to be treated like a moron just so they can make an extra buck.

I can't wait to get my MM so I can drive it up and park it in "customer parking" to make it very clear how badly they screwed up.

Thing is, I bet they don't care. :-(

Thanks for reading,
Andrew Van
Waiting for his MM

[prchrman]

Anderson in Asheville NC did a great job...no hassle...no bull...straight talk on price and payments...paint had a few swirls and they fixed pronto...also paint issue around front door fixed no problem...treated me like I was the customer...:up:

[Heavy351]

I used to sell cars for Ford then Toyota until about 7 years ago. My wife used to be a dealer finance manager for Chevy. She now works for ADP who supplies the computer systems for car dealerships. Many of our mutual friends are still in the business.
I get to hear about this all the time and I can say for sure nothing has changed in the last 10 years

Everything that has been said here is true and not true. When I was doing this I was like most in that I was putting in 60 hours a week on straight commision. There really is no training program and you learn everything "on the fly" If you cannot figure out how to close soon you "self select" out. Dealerships will hire nearly anyone who doesn't look homeless and has decent english. There is minimal investment in this salesperson. They are essentially volunteers for the first 2 weeks until their first check.

On an "open floor" you have usually more salespeople in the showroon than there are "ups" or opportunities in a given day. Some people were going home having never seen 1 prospect. why did I sometimes see 3 or 4 on a busy day? because I was aggressive and got in front of you right away. Those who were not couldn't pay the bills and eventually quit. On a good day I would sell 4 cars that took 2 hours to deliver each. That means I had 8 hours in a day used up by 4 people. My closing ratio was 2/3 so I was still working 2 or 3 others that day. I had NO time for tire kickers or those on the "be back bus"

When I went to Toyota, they did something different. They limited the salespeople on the floor (went from 23 to 6) to give each prospect more attention. However the floor traffic was much lower so in the end it was the same situation, 7 to 8 ups in a day and if I got stuck with a window shopper for an hour I make nothing at all. The rule also was nobody left the dealership until seen by a floor closer or the desk manager or get your head handed to you. Despite all this there was a real adrenaline rush, selling face to face, getting the close, slam dunking, putting them away, burying them for 5 years, "I jammed (closed) this accountant (someone who thinks he knows how to figure the numbers) in a exploder (Ford explorer) and stole his trade (hid the value of the trade in the payment)and got another spiff! (daily cash payout of 50 or 100$ for selling a certian slow moving car or nasty color)"

The way we were paid and the environment of competition (everydealer has a greaseboard somewhere with everyones #s on it, and you don't want to be on the bottom) the attitude that "buyers are lyers", The total freedom (when I would make it to the top of the board I could take 2 hour lunches, show up late, take whatever demo home I felt like) encourages all of the behavior you guys have experienced.

Why don't things change? I will tell you, I had the top customer service satisfaction surveys in the greater Pittsburgh region for 11 months. My first year. Before I figured out that was hurting my income. Thats right, a satisfied customer takes more TIME. Time I could be selling somebody else. Now, if you are the only guy in the showroom and are being treated like crap, then that is pure laziness and incompetence.

My wife conviced me to give up this wonderful life:rolleyes: and move into industrial sales and finally software sales. After several years I learned to "dial it back a few notches" and resist the learned urge to "jam" a customer. The skills I learned there are still valuable (amoung my peers my closing skills are considered "strong as death") but I am now a better person having gotten out selling cars.

My experiences may not be typical anymore (Im gonna get flamed anyway) but I assure you that I was not unique.

[prchrman]

Heavy...no flame here...my son said he got into the same mode when he was starving while selling Fords in KS...GOOD salesmen IMHO earn every dollar...I could never be a salemen...chain gang would be my end...