To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to formally lodge a…read morecomplaint regarding the unacceptable experience I have endured since purchasing a 2016 Ford Escape from Russ Darrow Mazda in Greenfield. The vehicle was financed through Capital One as part of their preferred dealership network, and I trusted that I would be sold a safe and reliable car. Unfortunately, this has not been the case.
From the outset, the car displayed problems. During the initial test drive, I noticed stability issues and unusual noises. The salesperson, Ethan, admitted he also heard something, but after taking the vehicle to service, I was told the car had "passed another safety check" and was safe to drive. Within seven days, the problems worsened, and I began a long cycle of repeated repairs, safety concerns, and dismissive treatment by dealership staff.
Documented Issues:
1. Differential Failure - On June 14, the vehicle was deemed unsafe to drive. It remained in service until August 23. When returned, the air conditioning was no longer functioning.
2. Evaporator Core Failure - The AC was not working, and coolant had leaked into the dashboard. I was again told the car was unsafe. Repairs took one to two weeks.
3. Radiator Failure - The radiator later failed, costing approximately $2,000. Despite paying for repairs, I received a work order stating: "Mazda of Greenfield will not fix another thing on this used vehicle." It even included a handwritten note stating the "front shutter valves [were] secured as good as possible," which is vague, unprofessional, and concerning.
Despite spending roughly $3,500 in repairs, the vehicle remains unsafe to drive. The car shakes, the steering wheel vibrates, and I have repeatedly been told by staff--including AJ, Adam, Shawn, and Nick--that the vehicle is "not safe to drive."
And here I am on 9/9/2025 with now needing a heater core and possibly a motor.
Treatment by Staff:
- My concerns were often minimized or dismissed until I became visibly upset.
- I was pressured by Nick to put down $4,000 to trade out of the vehicle, despite my credit situation being impacted by this ongoing ordeal.
- I have endured severe stress, including a breakdown that required me to take time off work due to the strain this situation has caused.
Summary:
- The vehicle was sold after multiple "safety checks" but has consistently been unsafe to operate.
- The car has spent more time in service than in my possession.
- I have invested thousands of dollars in repairs without resolution.
- I have been subjected to unprofessional and dismissive treatment from dealership representatives.
This situation is unacceptable. I am requesting that Russ Darrow Corporate immediately review my case and provide a resolution. At a minimum, I expect either:
- A full buyback of the vehicle, or
- A safe replacement vehicle without requiring additional out-of-pocket costs on my part.
I trusted your dealership to sell me a safe vehicle. Instead, I was sold a car that was unsafe from the beginning and remains unsafe today. I urge your office to take responsibility and rectify this matter immediately.
Sincerely,
Tamika Johnikin