I am located in Huntersville, NC. My location shows as GA for some reason. I am also only giving one star because there is nothing lower. I normally do not provide any negative reviews as everyone's experience can be subjective to their own interpretation. However, in this case, not only is the review based only on facts but I see other reviews with the same comments and the salesperson challenged me to find any negative reviews which is what lead me here.
I was shopping for a vehicle with my daughter and we were prepared to make a deal and leave with the used vehicle until we were hit with the surprise added fees.
FACTS:
The vehicle was listed at approximately $23,495.00. During the test drive when asking about pricing, the salesperson reminded me that they are known as the King of Deals.
During the purchase agreement, I was presented with paperwork that stated approximately $2,200.00 would be added to the purchase price for service work that needed done to make the vehicle sellable. I was also told the vehicle that has been on the lot for overt 120 days was already at the lowest price even though it was the salesperson who reminded me they are the king of deals.
Another approximately $880.00 was added for paint and interior protection.
Another $895 or $995 was added for administrative fees.
I was also told that all of this is mentioned in the fine print on the website and I verified that this is true but the website does not give any explanation as to what the terms mean and what the pricing for the add-ons will be.
The total charges added $4,000 to the price of the vehicle. While my opinion regarding an $895 or $995 administrative fee is high, it is what it is and would not place a review based on them charging a fee. I would review that my opinion is that its high but that seems acceptable practice in NC for vehicle sales.
My opinion is that it is a terrible and unethical business practice to charge for repairs and enhancements that they did to make the vehicle sellable. If a $23,495 vehicle has $2,200.00 in service work then the price should be listed at $25,695.00.
If you are not clear as to why they are doing this, it is so they can get the SEO of showing a vehicle at a cheaper price than other dealers to get you to visit them in the first place.
It worked! I probably would not have gone to this place first if the price was $2,200 higher but at least I would have remained a potential customer. Now, at this point, I would never consider purchasing a vehicle from any Randy Marion dealership.
Again, this is just my experience and highlighting their business practice so in addition to my review, if you are considering a vehicle from there, ask them the following questions....
1. Is the price firm or are you open to negotiation?
2. What are the added fees for the service work for the vehicle.
3. What if I don't want $880 in paint and interior protection?
4. How much is the administrative fee at time of purchase? read more