Letter to PAG- please join in!

[SmartAzz]

Originally Posted by Lewis

As far as bad publicity goes i don't think it hurt MINI but who knows?

I know of plenty of people who avoided local gouging dealers and went elsewhere to non mark-up dealers - but the point is that option was available from the get go, I was able to order with zero add on fees and not letting people do that is a questionable business practice and doesn't look good, which Mini/BMW did not have in that same way. Besides the Mini was a whole other venture, not nearly as tenuous as the Smart I'd think.

[SmartAzz]

Originally Posted by jwight

So how about both?

Remember, not all dealers are doing this so there may not be as much traction here as we think. As more cars are delivered we'll know more about how widespread the problem really is. Not saying it isn't an issue, but additional time will provide more facts.

John

True, it will be helpful once there is an overview and info compiled perhaps.

That one in the other thread of an $800 fee though, yikes

[kmeinhold]

Dealers are hurting for business already - I'm sure none of them want a story on Local 10 about their deceptive "dealer fee". Its time to put an end to this not just for smarties - but all automobile consumers.

[a2jack]

Make it short and to the point. No Rants.

We can each e-mail a copy to PAG under our own names.

BTW. Michigan has a law that caps fees at $100. but I will gladly join you.

Remember though, these rip off states charge these fees on ALL cars. If the charges on Smart falls, it will start a crash on all their fees. All the dealers will fight it tooth and nail.

Short of legal action by Penske in each state, I don't think he can stop it.

A2Jack

[Carnut]

Originally Posted by a2jack

Make it short and to the point. No Rants.

We can each e-mail a copy to PAG under our own names.

BTW. Michigan has a law that caps fees at $100. but I will gladly join you.

Remember though, these rip off states charge these fees on ALL cars. If the charges on Smart falls, it will start a crash on all their fees. All the dealers will fight it tooth and nail.

Short of legal action by Penske in each state, I don't think he can stop it.

A2Jack

The smart Centers are NEW dealerships, so sales of their other brands can still have the fee, provided we STOP THEM IN THEIR TRACKS NOW!

[chubhunter]

Already sent an email before I read this post. I believe if everyone, as individuals, sends an email expressing our unhappiness about the gouging we will be heard. Don't delay, do it now!

[mbertone]

What was this last minute $500 fee called?

[uncletony]

Lewis who was your dealer in NJ I would like to know so that I could call them and complain, and I will aslo send an EMAIL to PAG and threaten to cancel my vehicle

[flywithsean]

What is the policy on how long you can reserve the car without actually buying it?

Stick it to the dealer that way. Don't buy until they take off the price gouge. My dealer told me smart will not allow any add on pricing unless its the state accepted Dealer Fee for docs and stuff, which could be $500 and it that case your hosed. My dealer also said that the car is yours until you cancel the reservation or buy it.

[bumblebee]

Originally Posted by flywithsean

What is the policy on how long you can reserve the car without actually buying it?

Stick it to the dealer that way. Don't buy until they take off the price gouge. My dealer told me smart will not allow any add on pricing unless its the state accepted Dealer Fee for docs and stuff, which could be $500 and it that case your hosed. My dealer also said that the car is yours until you cancel the reservation or buy it.

I believe you have up to the point where you and your dealership workout a contract to purchase. If you can't get what you want then you can cancel it at that point.