I am an out of state customer and I was in the market to purchase a vehicle. I was browsing online and ran across MerLex Auto Group. They have a great selection of vehicles to choose from as well as great prices. I looked through their web site and right before I was going to make a call and start the process to conduct business with them, I came across the reviews and I looked and read every single one of them. At first, I thought I should ignore this organization and take my business elsewhere, but later on I was thinking to myself there are ALWAYS TWO SIDES TO A STORY. Let me find out what they have to say about these reviews. I called the store and asked them about the car that I was interested in, and I told them I read their reviews and I don't want to fly down there and spend substantial time and money and the car is not there and come back empty handed. They advised me first of all on consumers that write the reviews they will express their experience after conducting business with the organization, some of these reviews are consumer that were disqualified for the vehicle they were looking for due to their credit situation and since they could not conduct any business, the wrote negative reviews without doing any business with their organization. Secondly, some consumers they want them to hold the vehicle without any commitment or deposit towards the vehicle. They are expecting them to hold the car with just a phone conversation and hoping that they show up and purchase the vehicle. They assured me that if I left a deposit they would hold the vehicle until I get there and look at the vehicle and make my decision and if I was not satisfied with them they would refund the full amount of deposit. Early Saturday morning, I flew in to Washington Regan Airport. A gentleman named Bola was waiting to pick me up from the airport. He greeted me very professionally and had a first good impression. We had a good conversation and he shared with me with a lot of information about their company history and also a lot of information about the features on the vehicle. So far, everything went smoothly and I felt great that I made the right decision to come down there and experience it myself. I looked at the vehicle, and there are some features that did not come with the vehicle that I wasn't sure if I should still purchase the vehicle. At the same time, I felt guilty that I left a deposit on the vehicle and they missed a sale because of me. Finally, I told Bola I really don't want to do this, but if I get the vehicle with the features I want I will be happy and satisfied. At the beginning, I thought he would get upset, but he had the biggest smile on his face and told me that he was not going to be satisfied until I was satisfied. He told me the following week there would be a highline sale and would get me the exact vehicle that I was looking for. I decided to take a flight back home. They offered me lunch and ride back to the airport. They even gave me my deposit back and they advised me when they found a vehicle, they would call me and ask me for a security deposit for a commitment. The following week on Wednesday, I received a call from Bola and he told me that he was looking at the auction running list and there are a couple vehicles with the options and features that I was looking for. He just wanted to let me know that he was going there tomorrow to purchase a vehicle for me tomorrow. Thursday afternoon, I received a text from him along with a picture of the vehicle including the options and features that he purchased. He advise me that he is going to send the vehicle through the auction for the certification to certify it at the auction to make sure there were no issues with the vehicle or accidents as well as the certification papers. Later on that day, I received a phone call from him stating everything was looking good and that the vehicle would be there by Friday morning so I could look at it. I got a call 10am Friday morning that the vehicle is at the dealership, inspected, fully detailed and gassed up and ready for me. I gave them another security deposit in the amount of $500 to secure the purchase. I flew down the next day Saturday morning, Bola picked me up from the airport. We got to the dealership I was shocked, the vehicle was far beyond my expectations. While I was waiting for them to process my paperwork, I was thinking to myself, I'm glad that I did not ignore MerLex Auto Group and I decided to hear the other side of the story and being patient and experience it for myself and end up purchasing a great car at a great price. I would recommend any customer before they make any decision or judgment to hear the other side of the story first. You will end up like me a happy and satisfied customer. MerLex Auto Group is a home for me and every individual that works for that company are my family member through this car buying experience and I would definitely recommend them. read more

I have been in the car business for 10years, this dealership is astonishingly the prime example of every possible negative stereotype about car sales. Before visiting the dealership, I called in and made a very specific offer to the salesman of $16,300. I was honest and earnest about my offer. I asked him to call me back if he can do the deal. He calls and says I spoke to my manager and we can get close to the number. I set out driving to them and decided to call the salesman again to confirm the price expectation before driving there to waste my time or his. I specifically told him, "if you want me to come in and negotiate, please don't do that. I don't have the time or the ability to spend more than I have stated" He says; "I have confirmed with the manager, we have a deal" I get there, there's the salesman I spoke to who brings in his manager. He proceeds to give me a speech about value of the car in comparison to other ones available etc etc. I'm calmly looking at him and wondering why we are even having this conversation. I reiterated that, I was clear about my offer so why are you wasting my time? He has the audacity to tell me that, if I was complaining about the gas I used to get to his dealership, he could reimburse me for the $20-$30 I spent. It gets better. His boss then asks me to come into his office. Smug, impudent and not a lick of customer service in his facial expression, proceeds to lecture me about why I can't negotiate over the phone and how my time wasn't any more valuable because in the event that we agreed on a price and decided not to buy the car upon my arrival because of whatever reason, he would have wasted time too. I told them I will do $16,400 max and to call me if they decided they'd do the deal. This is where I'm blown away by their lack of professionalism. A few phone calls after I left where the salesman tried one weak sales tactic after the other, I decided to let the deal go. They then called me in the evening, the General Manager and the salesman both. Assuring me to bring a check for $16,400 the next day to complete the transaction. They confirmed the price twice. The next morning, I texted the salesman to get the paperwork ready and asked who to make the certified check out to. I also called the General Manager to confirm the price and who to issue the check to. I went to the bank and got certified funds and drove all the way back there. The sales manager who offered me $20 for my troubles, welcomes me and takes the check. 5-minutes later, there's yelling and cussing in the office among themselves. They weren't sure who approved the price and so on and so forth. Asked me to hang tight. I'm shocked. The GM pulls up and pretends he made a mistake and thought we were discussing a different vehicle. Tells me he could either sell me a vehicle I had never seen or discussed or give me time to save up and come up with $400 more. I'm astounded. Needless to say, this isn't a place to do business. I have never felt this disrespected and deceived in all my years living in the DC Metro area conducting business. Very roguish and unpolished. Telling them I had an extensive background in the business did not even help. If you want to experience this for yourself then I guess you should try doing business there. Unbelievable experience. Still fuming. read more

Edited Review: Walter you are amazing!!!! Thank you for your professionalism and dedication. You are a great leader for your team. I can now say that I am satisfied. The fact that you took it upon yourself to hand carry my tags to my home at 10 pm speaks volume on how dedicated you are to your customers. I appreciate your taking the time to make an uncomfortable situation turn in a remarkable one. As a result of your services I now rate my experience as a 4. ---------------------------------------------- Previous Review: I'll start by saying that the purchasing of my 2012 Range Rover was a good experience. Ahmed was very professional. HOWEVER, my experience afterwards has been horrific. I have been in constant contact with the staff at Merlex for my tags, registration, and title yet I have yet to receive them. On Monday, October 28, 2019 I contacted Merlex yet again and inquired about the tags due to the fact that the temporary ones were due to expire on the 31st. When I called I was informed that I should receive my tags by Wednesday but that if I do not just come to the dealership for another set of temporary tags. On Thursday, I drove to the dealership and was told that the tags had been delivered to my home and that someone had signed for them. This was not true what was actually sent to my home was the original title from the previous owner and Merlex. Which I should not have received. I contacted Merlex to inform them of this and was placed on hold for 20 minutes. After calling back and being transferred to voicemail I left a message. No one returned my call. This morning I went to DMV to see what they could do and was told that Merlex had to correct the problem. So I called, sent text and emails requesting help. Again no response. I then called again and was given a name and number to call for Katie. I contact her immediately but received her personal voicemail. I left a detailed message and text. Katie called back an hour later but hung up after the first ring. I called her back but again the call went to voice mail. While waiting for help I noticed that the packet I received yesterday came from Unique Auto Imports in Dumfries Va so I contacted them. I spoke with a guy name Miguel who was dumbfounded as to why Merlex would involve them but he gave me a number to the office that could assist with getting me the proper items. I called that number and was transferred to the department that handles tags/title but the line just rung. Now 4 hours later I am still waiting for help. I have left yet another message for management at Merlex. This experience has cost me a day of work so far. I can assure you that based on this experience alone I would never purchase or recommend anyone to purchase a car from Merlex. read more

This review aims to critically examine a negative customer experience with Merlex Auto Group, focusing on the ethical and practical implications of the reported sales practices. The experience, as described, raises concerns about transparency, inventory management, and overall professionalism. I would not recommend doing business with them. The core complaint centers around a significant discrepancy between advertised inventory and actual availability. The ad alleges that they were informed a specific vehicle (2010 Mercedes S Class 550, Black) was on the lot, prompting a considerable commute of an hour and a half. Upon arrival, the vehicle was reportedly not present, and an attempt was made to redirect the customer towards an alternative purchase. This situation immediately raises questions about the accuracy of Merlex Auto Group's online inventory listings and the potential for deceptive advertising. Furthermore, the ad highlights a breakdown in communication. Despite confirming the vehicle's availability via text message with a salesperson ("Grace", which was probably one of the male salesman) both in the days leading up to the visit and on the day of, no mention was made of the vehicle being unavailable. This lack of transparency suggests a failure in internal communication and a disregard for the customer's time and travel expenses. The fact that the vehicle is still listed on both the dealership's website and Carfax, despite its alleged unavailability, further exacerbates the issue. This discrepancy points to a potential systemic problem in inventory management, online listing updates, and falsified information. From an ethical standpoint, the alleged actions of Merlex Auto Group raise serious concerns. The potential for bait-and-switch tactics, coupled with a lack of transparent communication, erodes consumer trust and damages the dealership's reputation. Moreover, the failure to update online listings constitutes a form of misrepresentation, potentially violating consumer protection laws and honesty. This issue needs to be raised to upper management. read more

As a first time visitor to Merlex Auto Group in Arlington VA, I was pleased with the new dealership in my town That I did busniess with! However, after getting help from Walter, we decided to stick around! Before I came in I did some research about Merlex Auto Group which I did not like about it. So by Wife and I living right around the corner from Merlex Auto Group. I still decided to give them an opportunity. And I will make sure Melissa and I both tell everyone that is in the market for a car to come See Merlex and give them a try no matter what everyone else say!. Because at the end of the day I don't judge a book by its cover! Walter was extremely helpful, not pushy at all, and very transparent about the entire process. We spent 30 Mins discussing about how I wanted the whole deal to go down! I told him that I am looking for the best number on my trade-in (Jeep Rubicon). And I wanted the best number on their vehicle (Jeep Wrangler). The reason for the trade in because my wife dose not drive manual so I had to get an automatic one for her and my self. So Walter and I agreed upon everything. I had big tires on my Jeep and wanted to swap tires with there vehicle, So I notified him. So he stated to me that he has to make a phone call to his boss to let him know about that which he did. So the transaction was going to take until the next morning because the shops were closed for us to swap the wheels. So I came in the next morning. To finalize the deal and lock In the loan! I told Walter About my credit. Right away He stated to me that you can get the best rates through USAA Federal Savings Bank, If I was a Member. Which my wife and I both were! Which My wife and I was not aware of as well!. So he help out us right away to get us the best rate through the whole loan portion! I thanked him for guiding Us the right away. It was a great experience, Great customer service! Action Speaks louder than Words! Go and Give them a try without a doubt you will be satisfied what Merlex Auto Group and what Walter Can do for you! Thank You For All your help Walter! Mark,Melissa read more

I don't even know where to start with this dealer. We called the day of asking if a specific car was avail. We were told yes so we took the 2 hr drive down only to be told the car was no longer available. But they had another one. Over all condition of the car was ok but had high miles and wasn't the yr I wanted. Next scam came when we sat down to talk price. We were told they display the "whole sale price" on the website and in order for them to make any money there is a 8k fee they add on top. Classic bait and switch. They list cars they don't have available with prices the have no intention of selling at just to lure you in the door. Their office is the most unprofessional place I've ever entered. That should have been our first clue when we walked in. Lots of side conversations in tightly crammed spaces, no seating for customers, salesmen cussing and yelling at each other or in the phone. It was extremely uncomfortable. Our experience with the GM ( Alberto ) just felt like a game of manipulation. He pulls you in with charm but is unwilling to budge on numbers at all even when they are clearly using illegal tactics to get you in the door. Ultimately we bought a different car from them and while there isn't major issues wrong with the car I think we both regret it. We left there just feeling icky about it. Like something didn't feel right about the whole process. We'll never buy from them again. Oh also we bought our car from them well over a month ago and the car is STILL listed on their website and the price has changed 6x that I've seen. 36k,26k,31k,29k and 35k. Do yourself a favor and avoid this place. There is some sketchy xxxx happening there. You can read review after review ALL saying the same thing. All of their cars have been in accidents, they are auction cars and they have no business jacking the prices up the way they do. Many of the reviews also complain that there is major mechanical issues as well. BEWARE!! read more

I recently had the pleasure of purchasing a car from Merlex Auto Group, and I cannot speak highly enough of my experience. From the moment I walked onto the lot, I was greeted with exceptional customer service from the staff, including my sales representative, Diego. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the cars on the lot, and patiently answered all of my questions and concerns. He took the time to listen to my needs and preferences, and ultimately helped me find the perfect car that met all of my requirements. Throughout the entire process, Diego was patient, courteous, and professional. He walked me through every step of the buying process, from financing to the final paperwork, and made sure that I understood everything before signing off. He went above and beyond to ensure that I was satisfied with my purchase, and even followed up with me a few days later to make sure that everything was running smoothly. The staff at Merlex Auto Group was incredibly welcoming and accommodating, and I never felt rushed or pressured. The dealership itself was clean, organized, and well-stocked, making it easy to browse through the various cars on the lot. Overall, my experience at Merlex Auto Group was exceptional, and I would highly recommend this dealership to anyone in the market for a new or used car. Thanks to Diego and the rest of the staff, I left feeling confident and happy with my purchase. read more

Very Disappointing Experience -- Would Not Recommend I purchased a vehicle from this dealership expecting professionalism, transparency, and reliability. Unfortunately, my experience has been the complete opposite. Shortly after leaving the dealership, the engine light came on, which was very concerning, especially after just purchasing the vehicle. When I attempted to contact the dealership for assistance and guidance regarding this issue, my calls were not returned, and I received little to no support. What is most disappointing is the lack of accountability and customer service after the sale. When mistakes are made or issues arise, customers expect dealerships to step in, provide guidance, and help resolve the problem. Instead, I felt ignored and left to deal with the issues on my own. Purchasing a vehicle is a major investment, and buyers deserve honesty, quality, and proper customer support -- especially immediately after purchase. Based on my experience: Engine light came on shortly after purchase Poor communication and follow-up Lack of customer support No accountability for issues Unfortunately, due to these issues, I would not recommend this dealership to others. I strongly advise future buyers to proceed with caution and ensure the vehicle is thoroughly inspected before completing a purchase. Very disappointing experience overall. read more

THEY GIVE YOU A TANK OF GAS EVERY TIME YOU LEAVE A POSITIVE REVIEW TO HIDE THEIR SHADY BUSINESS PRACTICES - READ BELOW. They relisted a car that was already sold...3 times to draw buyers in...telling you that they have the car in stock until you get to the dealership. All I can say is they have an "F" by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) because of so many customer complaints, and the outright lies that can't be supported and that aren't based in fact. (Making up emails sent, claiming they've done everything they can but when you call the DMV to verify - nothing has been filed or done after MONTHS.) They have dishonest business practices that are supported by the highest level managers so you'll have no recourse. I've never heard more excuses in my life about so many different things. Make sure you have your title in hand if you purchase a vehicle from them because I've heard of cases where they sell cars without providing the title. Also - good luck getting your permanent tags. They admitted to an employee conducting illegal activity to make a quick buck. You may never be able to get your permanent tags legally drive your car - read the reviews posted by the BBB, you're better off taking your business elsewhere. They're scam artists who run a shady business who will tell you anything to make it seem like they're earnest. read more

BUYER BEWARE. Completely untrustworthy dealer. SCAM ARTIST AT THEIR BEST. They are rude nasty and arrogant. They are a true representative of the word despicable. They do not know how to show respect and treat their customers. They don't even know their own inventory but they scream we are a web-based car lot and you can look online for cars but I found it funny that I found 4 cars and not one car was on there lot when I arrived even after I texted prior to my 55-minute ride to this dealer... wait I'm sorry not a dealer but my 55-minute ride to this shit show. I arrived at the shit show dealer and took me 20 minutes just to get help. I walked in and the sales manager heard me looking and saying hello is anyone here trying to get assistance but he proceeded to ignore me and not even acknowledge that he heard me asking for assistance or that someone will help me shortly. I continued to knock on his office door and he continued to ignore me. The prices change in their benefit whenever they want it to. I will do everything in my power to report this business on every site I can find as well to the better business bureau. As a successful business owner myself, I would never operate in the despicable manner this lot does. read more

I purchased a vehicle from this dealership over a month ago, and while the initial sales interaction was pleasant, everything since then has been a nightmare. After driving over two and a half to make the purchase and returning home late at night, I quickly realized the brakes were unsafe and one tire was severely worn. I immediately contacted the salesperson, who assured me the issues would be taken care of. I had to take another day off work to drive back, only to be told that they would replace just one tire (with another used tire) and that the brakes would not be repaired. Instead, I was promised that brake parts would be purchased and shipped to me, but I would be responsible for the repair costs myself. To this day, no parts have arrived. It has now been well over a month, and I still have not received the permanent tags for my vehicle. Despite placing multiple calls, my attempts to speak with management have been met with rudeness and dismissive comments. One representative even told me to "get my lawyer to speak to their lawyer." This entire process has been extremely stressful and unprofessional. I strongly caution anyone considering purchasing a vehicle from this dealership to look elsewhere. read more

I went to Merlex Auto to look for a car that I saw on Auto trader. From the very beginning Sam threated me with the outmost respect. I told him what type of car I wanted but I wasn't sure if I could afford it because my credit is not the greatest. Sam told me not to worry that he will make sure that I get the car that I want. He shows me the car that I was looking for and I told him I cannot afford a car like that; does he have other models. He assures me not to worry that I will leave with that car, and I will be happy with the deal we made. He introduces to Nik and we started to paperwork. I had my doubts because even if I did get approved, I did not want my monthly payment to be too high. Nik found a way to get the payments where I was comfortable paying and next thing, I know Nik is congratulating me on my new car. For a second I thought he was joking but when he handed me the keys, I knew he was serious. Sooner there after I am leaving Merlex Auto with the car I never thought I was ever going to own and its thanks to Sam and Nik. I could not be more thankful. In the near future I am going to need a 4x4 or all-wheel drive and this is the place where I am going to get it. read more

Merlex - the masters of bait and switch. Ford F150 was advertised at $24,277. Great deal, I thought. On Monday 6/21/21 I made an appointment with "Mike" for a test drive for Wednesday at 1pm 6/23/21. Confirmed my appointment a bit before noon. Arrived about 15 minutes late - traffic - but called again 12:45 to warn I'd hit some traffic. No problem I was told. I get to the dealership and the truck was not in the lot. I was told the truck "was in the shop" to get a sun roof motor replaced. I said I was not pleased but sh-t happens. I was assured I'd still get first crack at the truck by a guy named "Steve" once it was out of the shop given my hour-long trek to Merlex. I got back to the house and discover that the truck price (according to the website) was now $28,966 - nearly $4,700 more than it was hours earlier. I called "Mike" again to complain - was told in so many words "too bad we can do that" to which I responded that there are laws against this sort of bait and switch. "Mike" told me that they no longer wanted to do business with me. Unlawful and unprofessional. ** UPDATE *** Check the reviews anywhere. Almost all 1s with scattered 5s - which I bet are bs entries by Merlex. read more

BUYER BEWARE!!! DON'T FALL FOR THE AS IS DEAL!!! Bought a 2019 Escalade with ~82,000 miles. After going back and forth for 30minutes we agreed on a 3 yr warranty that had 5 tiers; 1 being the least coverage and 5 being the best. We agreed on Tier 3 coverage that covered a good chunk of what could go wrong. After 35 days the car begins to shake and had to get repairs for 2 fuel injectors, 2 front struts, and a head gasket that was repair previously, but put on BACKWARDS (Because of this some coolant got into the engine). Mind you I couldn't pass inspection in MD without these repairs that totaled over $10,000 When I went to put my claim in for the coverage, the warranty company says I don't have Tier 3 coverage, I have Tier 1 coverage. Therefore they covered NOTHING. I quickly contacted Merlex only to be told I signed up for Tier 1. Merlex slipped in the paperwork for Tier 1 without me knowing and had me sign what I thought was Tier 3. Ali at Merlex has been screening my calls and has not responded to my emails concerning this. I paid the $10,000+ repairs out of pocket, but the story will not end there. TO BE CONTINUED... read more

I went to Merlex to explore their inventory and discovered a vast selection of used luxury vehicles. I was immediately greeted by a sales associate, Owen, whose demeanor could not have been more pleasant. He had a great knowledge of cars and after perusing a bit, I decided to test drive an Audi A7. The vehicle was in great shape, very low miles, and Owen answered every question I had about it. I decided to purchase the vehicle that same day and soon met with Walter, the general manager of the dealership. Walter was not only very professional, but also extremely friendly and gregarious. He slowly walked me through the process and made the entire experience virtually painless. He emphasized the importance of quality customer service (he paid for my first oil change right after I purchased the vehicle) and even invited me to a family wedding that same night! Walter's charisma and personable disposition made the entire process highly enjoyable. In the end, I acquired a quality Audi A7 and a new friend. Go to Merlex for your next luxury vehicle and start with Owen and close with Walter. You won't be disappointed! read more

I had an outstanding experience at Merle's Autogroup, and I can't thank Big Moe and Alex enough for everything they did to help me purchase my 2021 Volkswagen Atlas. From the beginning, Big Moe took the time to understand exactly what I was looking for and worked tirelessly to make it happen. He never pressured me, kept me informed throughout the process, and went above and beyond to make sure I left with the vehicle I wanted. A huge thank you as well to Alex, the Finance Manager, who made the financing process smooth and stress-free. He took the time to explain everything clearly, worked hard to secure financing that fit my budget, and made the paperwork quick and easy. Together, Big Moe and Alex made what can often be a stressful experience feel straightforward and enjoyable. Their professionalism, honesty, and commitment to customer service really stood out. If you're in the market for a vehicle, I highly recommend asking for Big Moe and Alex at Merle's Autogroup. They'll treat you right and work hard to make sure you drive away happy. Thanks again for helping me get into my 2021 Volkswagen Atlas! read more