On Nov. 20th, we purchased a 2003 Jaguar from MCLS Autos at their Bridgeview, IL location. We had been reassured again and again, that the vehicle was in excellent mechanical and physical condition. This was a main concern of ours due to the fact that we live out of state, about five hours away and were not able to be there to physically inspect the vehicle.
We received the vehicle with the E parking break fault code and ABS lights on, as well as the engine squeaking. Our salesman/manager (Zach) told us to take the vehicle to the closest Jaguar dealer to have the codes wiped, since they had their own mechanics inspect the vehicle and he reassured us there was nothing wrong with it, it was just due to the vehicle sitting for a longer period of time, not being driven. And proceeded to tell us that the engine was squeaking because they just replaced the belts and detailed the engine. So all it needed was to be silicone lubed.
The next day, we took it to our local Jag dealer, who upon inspecting the vehicle, told us that the ABS module and wiring harness needed to be replaced at a total around $3700. They also told us that the squeaking was coming from the idle pulley and water pump, which if replaced would cost another $1200 or so. We immediately contacted MCLS and told them about the situation, explaining that they need to either fix the car or it will be returned.
After that (11/26), it was impossible to get ahold of anyone in regards to our situation. The few times we were able to speak to someone, we were lied to about whether our salesman/manager (Zach)was there or not and what they were going to do about rectifying the situation. They said they would fix it, buy us a warranty, etc....After that, at least 3 messages or more were left everyday with the receptionist, or our salesman's personal voicemail with never receiving a phonecall back.
After 2 weeks or so of nothing being done, we notified our financing company we were returning the vehicle and I personally returned the vehicle on 12/7/07 to MCLS Autos, Bridgeview. After some debate with the so called GM ??? (Albert, who we later found out was fired), I gave the keys to him and returned the vehicle. I told him that our loan needed to be refunded and our downpayment returned.
And after a month and a half or so, they still haven't refunded the loan or returned out downpayment. Later today (1/15/08) after calling numerous times and no one answering, we called the local police who proceeded to tell us that they have had numerous calls about them and MCLS Autos has locked their doors and filed bankruptcy, with 5/3rd being their lienholder and in charge of their assets. We were also finally able to find out who the (claimed) owner and CEO is, Lester Bafia.
Like everyone else, we have also not received our title or check for state taxes that we financed thru our loan so we can title the vehicle. And most importantly, we do not even have the vehicle which has most likely been seized??? by 5/3rd.
There has to be something illegal with how they have done business. I just don't see how a business can keep money, titles and vehicles without it being illegal, fraudulent, and criminal in some manner.
Their website is still up and running, and I wouldn't put it past them to try to conduct some type of business. But hopefully the one good thing that has come of this to date, is, if they have gone out of business, they can't harm or mislead any other potential customers.
Cameron
Cincinnati, Ohio
U.S.A.