Heiser Ford - Tim Penn, Chris Myer Beware Water Damaged Vehicle!!!!! Glendale Wisconsin

Purchased a vehicle online in March of 2014 and had it shipped.  Vehicle was priced slightly higher than comparable models elsewhere. I purchased from Heiser based on photographs provided and answers to specific questions regarding the condition of the vehicle (admittedly foolish to not have it third party inspected).  

I did not negotiate the price of the vehicle down as I felt the price was fair based on the claimed condition and recent mechanical work (to include a timing belt change). The vehicle arrived with significant rust damage. It was unloaded at my office where it sat for nearly 3 months while my attempts to communicate with Tim Penn (sales manager) and Chris Myer (GM) were routinely ignored outright or full of excuses and requests for more time.  

June 3rd Tim Penn conceded the glaring discrepancy between pictures I provided of a clearly water damaged vehicle and the misleading (though well executed) photos used in marketing the car and offered $200.00.  It should be noted that the reason for the unfortunate circumstances was the vehicle was a trade in and the person responsible for evaluating the trade failed to see the damage. Further, the person photographing the vehicle also failed to detect the damage and conveniently the pictures were such that the otherwise obvious damage was not visible.  

I declined the offer and was assured of three things; 1.) Heiser would not take the water damaged vehicle back, 2.) It was reasonable for me not to feel comfortable putting a young driver behind the wheel of a water damaged vehicle (air bag reliability concerns), and 3.) Someone from Heiser would contact me.  After one full week of no response I left two messages to no avail.  The vehicle has been driven less than 200 miles and is currently in the shop as it requires a new Variable Induction Control Motor. The previous one was water damaged.  

I was never contacted again by Heiser Ford nor was proof of the previous mechanical work provided.  At this point I expect nothing and have no interest in hearing another plea for more time to talk to the powers that be.  If nothing else this process is a reminder of why the general public holds such high esteem for "car guys".  

Heiser has plenty of good reviews and happy customers, particularly in the new car department. That said, when it's time to sell a car with problems Heiser should not be held in higher esteem than any other used car lot.  Get an independent inspection and give little value to the assurances of those with a commission on the line.  

Mark

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