Advance Auto Parts Online Discount Bait and Switch Scheme Internet, Internet

Cyber Monday Advance Auto Parts offered a $70.00 discount on purchases over $200.00, online only. The discount was applied at checkout, and the total due $214.00. They debited my checking account the same day. The next day, at 7:30pm they emailed me that my order was cancelled. No reason was given, but they listed a cutomer service number.

I called customer service, waited 15 minutes, then finally got hold of a rep. What happened to my order, I asked. He said it was cancelled by accounting as a questionable mailing address. I verified the address for him. It is the same address my bank statements are mailed to. I have had this address for several years. It is where my credit card statements go. So what is the problrem, I asked? You had the correct address on the order.

Well, now that you have verified the address, I can ship the order there, the rep told me. And it will only cost you $20.00 more, because the discount you used yesterday has expired. "But it is still a great price" he told me.

Wait a minute. I ordered it yesterday. I paid for it yesterday. You debited my bank account yesterday. Then your company cancelled the order today, after receiving my payment yesterday. Twenty minutes ago you told me you could not ship it to my mailing address, but now you can, for only $20.00 more than it cost yesterday. And you tell me it is still a bargain at that price.. It looks like a modern version of the old bait and switch scheme. Advance Auto cancels your order via email, then when you phone customer service, they jack up the price, and reassure you that you are getting a great deal. No thank you. I will never shop at Advance Auto again. Hey Oreilly's...I'm back!