Steve, the first thing to do is look over your contract carefully. I don't know, but I believe you will find that it is with the dealer and not DC, and it may explicitly limit DC's liability for dealer screw ups.
If so, I think your ability to force DC to put this right could be limited. But that's not necessarily the end of it.
First, there may be laws in your state regulating dealers that give you rights against DC even if your contract is with the dealer and even if your contract says otherwise.
Second, even if DC is not legally obligated, they may step in to keep you happy. But it'll be best to know what their obligations are, if any, before you ask them to do that.
So, after you check the contract, try to find out whether there are any state laws that give you some rights against DC. I would suggest you start with your local Better Business Bureau. After that, you could try to do some basic legal research on the Web. Most states have their codes on line, although they can be hard to navigate.
Unfortunately, however, your legal recourse against the dealer may be limited if the dealer has actually declared bankruptcy. In that case, I believe you will have become an unsecured creditor, which essentially means you'll be standing in the same line as everyone else the dealer stiffed (e.g., the power company and the local deli). But take this with a grain of salt, since I don't practice bankruptcy law.
I read your post on the situation just 15 minutes ago with more grief and anger than you might anticipate.
That is to say, your (previous) dealer probably "went under" ONLY because he mismanaged the operation, and that he knew sooner or later, he'd lose the franchise anyway! To drag well-meaning customers into his mess is a TRAVESTY!
A few questions:
1. Did the dealer supply you with a written worksheet (purchase agreement) on the buy, listing all the vehicle, all options and price?
2. Did you supply the dealer with a letter of understanding, listing the vehicle, options, prices and indicating that your deposit on the vehicle is fully refundable, and that you are under no obligation to purchase unless and until you've inspected the vehicle, the paperwork, and it's to your satisfaction?
3. Did the dealer supply you with a VON (Vehicle Order Number) within a couple of days after you made your deposit? It's his obligation to do so, or to relinquish your deposit.
4. Did you contact DC with a VON number and receive verification that your order had been entered?
Steve... If this had been 18 months ago, and my primary professional involvement were with Chrysler rather than Ford, I'd have you the name and number of the District Sales Manager in NO TIME!
Again, your story is something out of the '70s!!! It's incredulous that you can be bounced around like that!
My only advice (though I'll check a few local sources) is to contact DC... Tell the Rep (who's going to be a realtively powerless entry-level, recent college-grad... Tell s(he) that you want the name and number of of the District/Region Sales Manager for your area... Then tell your story from there.
Please keep me/us posted on this. As one who's spent a great deal of my professional training life for ten-plus years trying to bring the Chrysler retail automotive network op to speed on proper management of the sales operation to establish customer satisfaction and loyalty, this one cuts to the heart!
hey all, thank god most of you are happy out in Quadland.I am getting approx. 20 mpg on mixed town and hway driving.3.55/4.7 v8..3,200 miles so farand only a broken gas gauge to report.
lmeyer: GOOD POINT on contacting the BBB... But it should be used in conjuction (or as a caveate) with contacting the Regional/District Folks.
We obviously have a dealership operation that must have been in trouble (probably for a NUMBER of reasons ranging from poor sales/F&I training to poor service/parts performance).
The young folks you'll be in contact through the toll-free DC number are largely unempowered. Yes, they have the ability to track orders, take complaints, etc.
HOWEVER, their next "big step" is to go into the field (Regions/Districts) as reps and begin dealing with both Sales and Service issues directly with the dealers. Next stop is perhaps an assistant Region/District Manager position... Where there's some true supervisory experience... Then perhaps being shipped back to one of the Areas to assume a "cushy position," good salalry and (distant) responsibility for what's going on in the field.
POINT: Don't think for a moment that DC (as a company) doesn't want to remove poor-performing dealerships from its franchise network. Unfortunately there are franchises that will not recognize the balance between acceptable Sales, Parts and Service performance and CUSTOMER SATISFACTION.
Sorry to wax on here... But it truly disturbs me to hear about cases where the retail network does not uphold corporate goals.
PS -- Don't think, either, that Chrysler folks aren't monitoring this forum!
PSS -- Don't think that Chrysler folks aren't wondering "who this is" that's posting!
PSSS -- JEEZ!!! I hope I've still got the chance to develop more training for Chrysler! Not that I have anything against Toyota, Mazda, Lexus, Etc... But I'd really rather be working for a company on my home turf!
PSSSS -- Sorry for the long post... Just a bit concerned about the difference between corporate goals and dealership goals... 'NUFF SAID, except that if DC can somehow convince its dealers of the same, it's got the potential to create some remarkable customer loyalty!... Over-and-Out!
Have to cash it in here for tonight, guys... But just a post-script on the the Ford SportTrack (I think that's the name) vs. Dodge Quad...
Down in "Ford Country" today for business with that client... And parked the Quad out-back of the building so as not to be conspicuious.
Got out of the meetings and BS... Talking casually, he asked me about the vehicle purchase... And here are a HUNDRED Ford vehicles (of all sorts) in the parking lot! (Do I feel a bit at-odds at this point!!??)
I tried to explain that I honestly wanted the Ford, but had priorities regarding garageabiity vs. the F-150 platform. He didn't relent... Until I put him behind the wheel...
NOPE! He couldn't sacrifice his allegience to the brand to the Dodge... Though he DID relent that it's an extremely responsive vehicle...
metcalf - Dodge'll be sending you an app for the ext. warranty in about two months or so. Full deal is about $1200 then; more as time goes by. Painted flares (body colored) are a 'given' if you get them from Dodge (Mopar) - make sure you get the lower trim colored ones (Light Driftwood) - easy install. Drop-in liner freebie probably applies to you - ask the dealer, he won't want to give it to you, but ask for the May freebie anyway. I paid $200 for my factory one - installed. Just make SURE they install it with the double sided tape that they DIDN'T use on any of ours! At least on mine or henne's. Light group has an extra power outlet on the dash, overhead console with dual map lights, ext. cargo lamp, interior lamps for glove box, ashtray and engine bay - it is std. I believe, on all Quads. See if they'll give you the 235X15's instead of the 215's and reset the speedo for you - I doubt it. Though you might want to upgrade to them later on your own, or buy the 15X8's to fill the flares with.
cseiler - get the HD group if you tow or live in a hot climate. It's already saved me an engine - my extra cooling fan quit while idling in the field (relay fried) and the extra capacity saved my butt - barely.
quark99 / gsu1/ ahasher - Mobil 1 and Mobil 1 filters ($10) are great. You should be able to pick up 'bulk' M-1 oil at a discount that takes the $3.50 and up price to just about $2.15 to $2.25 per quart (of course I get oilfield discounts). I get mine from an oil (refined products) jobber. Oil changes using a rubber latex glove turned inside out at the top (roll the ARM portion up over the filter while using the finger tips to remove the filter) or heavy ziploc (freezer type) bag.
sh9589 - do you run your Quad at idle to get 20 mpg?!
cudaboy - try a Quad before you buy the R/T. I did and bought the Quad: faster with the 4.7 than the R/T 5.9. Quieter and as good a handling. ADD the rear sway bar (Hotchkiss) to a stock Quad, buy a set of the 17's off ebay, reset the speedo, stick a Super Bee sticker on it (I did) and you'll have something special. And 4 real seats. For the same or less money. Motor Trend did a Quad project, as did Hotchkiss and about a dozen others, and M/T is now working on shock valving, etc. The M/T effort was, and is IMPRESSIVE! I know of no ongoing work with the 5.9 engine other than some tweaking. I like the engine, but D/C is phasing it out soon. The 4.7 and the replacement for the 5.9 are getting all the development $$$. Oh, and you can also get a 5-spd with the 4.7 Quad. :-)=
Well I got held over on overtime and some double time. I called D/C today and they informed me that I have a shipping date of june 5. last week when I called them they said May 20. and that it would take 19 days or so to get here. putting me to the end of june. so I'm hoping that they screwed up on there calculations some where. will be leaving on monday morning for hawaii for 8 days and would like to have the call on the answering machine telling me that the quad is in when we get back. but as the great bookitty did we must all wait our turn.
Techno- thanx for your info from benica to napa is not as far as to redwood city. but it could take longer I guess.
I see a few quad-waiters on this board...there's a few here in Northern CA-right here in lovely Brentwood CA. (NOT the OJ Brentwood, it's the East Bay Area...) If you're looking, give a buzz...I think the local lot has 2 4 x 4's and 2 4 x 2's...and 1 "stripper"...V6 w/auto, SLT base...good luck! quark
I am working on most of the suggestions that you guys have made. I have a standard DC contract that specifies the terms and total sales amount. I have a VON and spec sheet which shows the options. I found out about the situation when I found that the vehicle was on hold for no apparent reason and started calling around.
I would go and rant and rave at the dealership, but I would be talking to empty space. When I was there three weeks ago, everything was 'great' at the dealership. This is a dealership that has been there for years. We bought my wife's Shadow there in April 93. The old dealer spun off his Dodge/Chrysler operations. They did a good business. No clue as to what happened yet, but it is over a hundred miles from me. I have relatives there checking out what happened.
So far DC has been helpful to a degree. They have transferred my VON to another dealer who is checking on the order. The caveat on this is that while DC wants him to honor the original deal, he has final say and may want more on his end. He has already said that they have taken over several orders, but one was way under the invoice price. The contract I have is the standard DC contract which limits the relationship with the dealership. My deposit is with the dealership and therefore, absolves DC legally. So far, my best bet is to file claim with the county DA which will get me zip. I am going to try to work with DC until I get the vehicle. If I cannot work out some sort of deal with DC, then I may need to start legal action. While DC has some responsibilities, I would probably lose a court case. My advantage is that it is easier to win a small claims action and that defending any action on my part would cost DC more than my claim. I am trying to remain positive about this. Any increase from the dealer that has my order now is not going to be any more than what I would have paid him if we had made a deal originally. I may be able to get a partial break from DC. Controlling my wife , however,is another problem. She just lost her new couch.
Thanks again for the support and help guys. I'll keep you informed of what happens.
Still sounds horrible to have possibly lost your order. I hope the new dealer can feel your pain and deal with you. I don't know your order dates or specs, but mine are on Post# 314. I just called this morning, and my Quad (ordered 17 Apr)is still on restriction (BG code) due to the 31x10.5 tires for the 4x4 SLT Plus option. I guess they didn't have enough of them in stock for the line. Keep the faith.
Steve, I certainly hope that this can be resolved in your favor. To pursue satisfaction from the now defunct dealer is an exercise in futility. The banks get first grab. When working for my former company, we had a dealer that went belly up after securing an order with a hefty deposit from an end user. We manufactured mobile equipment with various attachments that met needs in many and sundry applications. This particular sale was to an automotive scrap yard. I was contacted by the end user, and they were not "happy campers." As there was some profit in the order, we accepted the order, and allowed the deposit against the order, but I had to clear it with the receivers. I did so by giving them a small percentage and then delivered the machine through another dealer who happened to be a factory branch (they were the closest dealer). I went with my regional tech for the delivery, met with the servicing dealer and the customer was required to pay for the unit with a certified check. I sent the check to the company, and we distributed the funds including the 5% service fee to assure service through the warranty period. I even had the factory perform the PDI (pre delivery inspection) so that we could proceed with all haste at time of delivery with just some minor settings of pressures, etc. So, it can be done. Did we do this from the goodness of our hearts? No, of course not. We did this because we knew that the end user would sue everybody in sight, and it would cost less to "deliver" than to "defend". Besides, at this point, we had the "deep pockets" and knew that we could spend money on "defend" and then more to "deliver". Although this is not a legal precedent, it may shed some light on corporate thinking. Hopefully, between D/C and the appointed delivering dealer you will emerge unscathed. Good luck, it is really a rotten break.
Where to begin....The truck I purchased is as good a place as any.
*2000 Quad Cab 4x4 SLT Plus *4.7L V8 *Automatic transmission *White exterior with Light Satin Driftwood rocker panels and fender flares. *Mist Grey Interior *Heavy Duty Service Group *Bucket Seats with Console *Sliding Rear Window *Power Overhead Convenience Group *Anti Spin Differential *Power Drivers Seat *Power 6 x 9 Mirrors *SLT Plus Decor Group - includes Tire and Handling Package, etc. *Fog Lamps *AM-FM Cass/CD/EQ
If I had ordered this truck I would have added the Steering Wheel Radio Controls, a very inexpensive option once you get the required top dog radio, why this option was not chosen I don't know. Also I would have ordered the factory skid plates, not a big deal though since I don't off road that much anymore. I am going to have to add a platform receiver hitch, anyone have a good internet outlet on those?
I always deal with the Fleet people when I buy and this was no exception. Greg Birdsall is THE MAN at Huffines, accept no substitutes. He drives a Quad by the way, and has a PT Cruiser on order. I paid 337.00 over invoice which was knocked down below invoice with my 500.00 farm rebate. This dealership currently has an awesome selection of Quad 4x4's in Sports, SLT Plus, with 4.7L and 5.9L engines. I will be happy to help in any way I can, so email me if you have any questions. Huffines had pre-installed a drop in liner in my truck, Greg and I uninstalled it ourselves, without doing any damage, kudos Greg. Don't mean for this to sound like an infomercial folks, this was just the most pleasant truck buying experience I have had in awhile.
I LOVE THIS TRUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!! The build quality is oustanding, fit and finish is excellent. The 4.7 is very responsive, the truck simply feels tight and looks great! The cabin is quiet and rides smoothly for a half ton 4 wheel drive. Handling is most impressive especially when compared to the land barge F350. My best friend owns a nearby muffler shop, I'm thinking about having the exhaust split behind the converter and running a Flowmaster muffler, any feedback? The Rhino liner will be forthcoming in the next couple of weeks.
I seem to be FINDING errands to run this morning, time to close this novel for now. Sorry for being so long-winded.
Zach, great choices. My truck is virtually optioned, except for the automatic transmission, premium radio, powered/bucket seats and two tone paint. I do have the skid plates, tow group, engine block heater and leather steering wheel cover. You have chossen a good package. My truck is painted Amber Fire Pearl which precludes the use of headlights. It creates its own auro of light. Good luck, you sound like one happy camper.
Zach, great choices. My truck is virtually optioned, except for the automatic transmission, premium radio, powered/bucket seats and two tone paint. I do have the skid plates, tow group, engine block heater and leather steering wheel cover. You have chosen a good package. My truck is painted Amber Fire Pearl which precludes the use of headlights. It creates its own aura of light. Good luck, you sound like one happy camper.
I seem to remember that someone used Landers to buy their QC. Could you give some idea of their pricing policies, i.e., $X under invoice, invoice, X% or $ over invoice, negotiate or what. I emailed them and got a form email reply that really doesn't say much. I don't mind travelling to get a better deal than I can locally, but I would like to know somewhat more tna I do now about Landers. Has anyone used carsatinvoice.com in Williamsburg, KY? Thanks
I am a little confused. bpebles said that the 4.7L should come with beefier alternator and battery, and a cooler in front of the radiator. iwantaquad indicated the tranny cooler was part of the HD group. If I remember correctly, carpoint.com's pricing format would not allow me to add the HD group if I had ordered a 4.7L multispeed. So, I am a little confused. Do all the package items already come with a 4.7L auto or not? And, if I infrequently tow, do I need the HD package?
Anyone hearing how long the summer shut down will be for the QC production line?
My dealer and DC both said that the resumption of production will vary by plant. My dealer said his guess was that with no changes being made, the QC would probably resume production somewhat earlier than other models.
He also said (perhaps being overly optimistic) that my order might even be ready to ship in the middle of August. Anyone hearing anything similar?
I bought my Quad at Landers for about $300 over invoice. You could probably negotiate the price but at the time I was shopping(back in Feb.) that was about the going price around here. As the end of the model year approaches you might get a pretty good price on a vehicle if you purchase it from their stock. They will have several Quads on the lot and might have what you are looking for. I had to order mine because of the 5spd. Seems like very few dealers order them for dealer stock.
The Quad is the second vehicle I have purchased from this dealership and I have been happy with their willingness to work with me and provide service after the sale. It is a very large dealership (they claim to be the largest Chrysler dealership in the world) so it is important to get a good salesperson. I recommend that you go to their website at www.landers.com and get their toll free number and call and ask for Melanie in sales. She was great to work with. I didn't have to talk to a sales manager once :-) and she didn't try to sell me a vehicle that I didn't want.
Zonk, my truck is a Red 4x4 4.7 5spd, 3.55 lsd, trailer tow pkg, heavy duty service, buckets, skid plates, with sports plus pkg that includes the tire and handling pkg. At the last minute I added the 6x9 power mirrors. I like them. I wish I would have added the top line cd/cass/stereo with wheel controls but otherwise I wouldn't change a thing on my order if I was doing it again. I also have a Leer tonneau which I have already taken off the truck. I like it better as a real pick-up and for my purposes a cap would have been a better choice. (Anybody need a flame red Leer tonneau?) The last add-on was a set of black (no chrome please)Westin step bars. I am shopping for push bars and grille guards but have not yet found ones I like.
Zonk, I wish you luck in your truck search. You will love this truck. If I can be of any help regarding landers,etc let me know.
Thanks for the update; I remembered you as I began to read your posting. If you don't mind me asking,when you say invoice, did that include the ad fees (so your cost was invoice, ad fees, and the $300)? I had not rerally thought about ad fees until I began reading these postings. It seems that they are not listed on the sticker on every car (or I just don't remember them). Did you get the Farm Bureau discount? Thanks for the info!
invoice plus ad fees plus $300. Ad fees were about $480. Every quote I got (about 4) here in the state included the ad fees. I still don't know if they are legitimate but I believe Bookitty and a couple others had to pay them as well and assured me that they were hard to get around. Here in the South (truck country) the Quads were advertised pretty hot and heavy. As someone said (Bookitty I think) at least when I see the cool dodge ads I could enjoy the fact that I paid for them. Didn't help much.
I had planned to get the Farm Bureau discount but I got a $400 college incentive instead (I'm an old grad student). Since my ordered truck only took about 4 weeks I would have been cutting it pretty close with the 30 day required waiting period for Farm Bureau. The $400 dollars came off the above figure (invoice including ad fees + 300) leaving a net of -$100 under invoice including ad fees). Hope this helps. Like I said before, if they have what you are looking for you can probably get a pretty good deal. They usually run a big promotion around Memorial Day. It might be worth checking out.
Here in California, I did not see ad fees on the sticker, but the dealers I went to insisted that it was unavoidable. I did not pay any ad fees by buying my truck through carOrder.com. I configured and ordered my car on 4/11/00 for about $60.00 over invoice.
Now for the big surprise. My truck is on the lot and I received my final invoice yesterday. A $1000 Manufacturers rebate had been applied to my total! I am now at $940 below invoice w/o any ad fees.
I realize Carorder.coms prices fluctuate over area and time, but for those of you who have not ordered, I believe you should check out their web site and configure a truck. The price you will pay (unless it suddenly becomes $1000 less!?) shows up right away. Click "buy this car" and lock in if the price looks good to you.
meyer - Only you (or bpeebles, henne, etc.) would know about a Hellwig kit. I don't have a clue. Bigger is usually better for handling, but not necessarily for ride quality. The stock unit is FINE in the tire & Handling Group for 99.9% of users. Just be prudent.
zonk - I always pay for HD cooling or whatever - at a couple of hundred bucks it ain't going to break the bank, but heat related failures in TX absolutely WILL. bpeebles knows a lot more about this particular item - so I'd ask him about more specifics as he researched it pretty thoroughly and I didn't. I just 'check it off' on every vehicle I buy. It was 114 degrees at my lease today, so you know I'm happy I've got it. And I've already blown or fried two relays in the cooling system. I'm pretty sure the aux. electric cooling fan will go soon...
zach - You think this truck is great now, wait until it's broken in at about 800 miles!
Don't actually know anything about Hellwig. Just read about them somewhere. Actually, now that I have to wait till 2001, I'll probably just get the T&H package and stick with the stock bar. Thanks just the same for your thoughts.
first of all congrats on recieving your truck. thanks for the link to that site. now it looks as if i may wait for a couple or three moths before mine is even built. does ernie have the skinny on the 2000 production cut-off date? he seemed to give you a lot of information. now to get on a retro topic, we have a B-47 bomber and a FB-111 retired outside the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base. wanted to include that a while ago. thanks again to all in this forum for your informative posts.
I just bought a 2000 Dakota club cab sport 4X4 with 4.7 liter V8, 5 speed manual, 3.92 axle, limited slip diff., tow package, HD service group, and the bigger 31" tires. (plus a bunch of other bells and whistles) I have 500 miles on the truck. GREAT TRUCK !!!!!! WOW!!!! I noticed lately that when I push in my clutch (while the truck is running) it feels like is has a little bit if drag in it. (This started at about 100 miles and seems to be getting a little better). I know it is a hydraulic system, but the best way I can describe what it feels like is when a clutch cable starts to go bad, the pedal feels a little "squeaky" The clutch fluid is fine, and it shifts perfect and there is no slip. If I turn off the engine and push the clutch pedal in and out, it feels just fine and very smooth. The only time it feels funny is when the truck is running. It is barely noticeable. I also noticed that once in a blue moon If I am in 1st gear and have the RPM's around 2500 or 3000 and I suddenly push in the clutch, The truck almost stalls. It actually did one time. This does not happen often though. I was wondering If anyone else has experienced these minor problems or could it be related to "break in" Thanks
OK, I'm over my order being cancealed. Carorder stated that they will try to locate a vehicle close to my specs, but I may need to re-calc my invoice. I don't want to do that. I just checked and for my location the price of the QC went from $500 under invoice when I originally ordered the vehicle to $1088 over invoice today! Local dealers are willing to do $300 to $500 over invoice. So I'm happy.
To those that sent me notes privately about QC status at local dealerships, thanks again. My intention was to help carorder locate a vehicle for me. If I need to adjust my carorder invoice to the new pricing I'm going to drop them and go with a local dealership. If fact I'm off tomorrow morning to check out a SLT+ that's loaded at the dealership *and* in the color I want. (Well, almost I wanted solid, but this is the 2tone.) Another bennie, the wife has approved me buying the loaded vehicle if that's what I want. :-) Originally I ordered a base SLT with the couple of "must have" options for myself. So I'm psyched!
Lastly while checking local dealers I found two others that have close matches scedualed to arrive in the next week or so. So I might hold off for one of them if I don't like the vehicle tomorrow.
First off, Ernie has been promoted and no longer is in the customer service department. He does watch these topics, but there are other representatives who can answer your questions. Thanks for thinking of me regarding the B-47 at Plattsburgh. I have been to the base during my military stint, and later as a civilian when I worked in the area (called upon Vin Jerry) and Murnane in later years. The B-47 that held the time aloft record for years was either there or in Springfield, MA. A great ship to fly at the time.
I personally was stunned to read my "final invoice" and find my price had dropped $1000 due to a "manufacturer rebate". I don't think you're wrong lmeyer1. I checked all internet sources today and saw no indication the QC had a rebate of any sort. I have no idea where they came up w/ this.
I am aware Carorder prices seem to fluctuate daily and from place to place. My advice to potential QC buyers is to check their price and check it regularly. Lock in if it looks good, go elsewhere if it does not.
The car is NOT in my driveway. I have been given a final price and sent my cashiers check to their escrow account. I will post w/ final results when delivery is complete.
lmeyer1 I'll bet EVERTHING is not more expensive out there. CA state tax is 7.25% (counties and cities add more). I am paying $1415 sales tax on my truck.
I checked with carorder here in Alabama. here is what they provided: INV -21618; MSRP-24095; carorder-23178. That seemed awfully high til I read the price included tax, title, and license fees. Thing is the tax in Madison County where I live is 4.5% and in Huntsville (the big city here) is 8% i think. At the 4.5% range (assuming they know i live in the county?), the carorder price makes sense if you add ad fees of about $400. Their invoice seemed to be off by about 140 from other sites, too. Still seems high. Did your price include taxes, etc? How does this compare to what some of the rest of you paid?
Quadders- I'm thinking of adding a couple things to protect the truck: 1) Crash Bars-I don't offroad (2wd Quad) but I'd like to protect from local CA morons who park using the sound method (ooops, crunch.) I'd like simple, single stainless or chrome bars that would bolt directly in front of the chrome strips on the front and rear bumpers (SLT) Has anyone seen anything aftermarket like this? Also, after spending almost a quarter-million miles behind the wheel of a Neon in ridiculous SF Bay Area traffic, I think it's time for a little "payback", in terms of pure intimidation... 2) Body rubber moldings. Not available for the Quad? Seen 'em on regular Dakotas and Durangos...maybe too "new" of a vehicle...? 3) Door edge protectors. Need to share garage space without dinging the wife's Avenger. 4) I know mudflaps are available-gotta get 'em... Thanks- -Quark-
Johnboy, received my new quad yesterday. 4.7 auto. My trans dip-stick does not fully seat but I will use your engineered method ("L" bracket & safety wire) to ensure no leaks. Also, around 46 to 49 mph the truck has a low frequency hum from the rear. This is most noticeable when I let off of the gas pedal. Anybody know what this hum might be?
I'd buy your tonneau, but i don't think Flame Red will look good on Patriot Blue. I already have a tonneau on order, and it will most likely arrive before the Quad. How was the quality of the Leer Tonneau? Any complaints?
The Leer tonneau looks pretty sharp on the Quad. Course if you were into some exotic paint and graphics you could buy my cover and do a red, white, and blue number maybe with stars....I guess not. The main complaint I have about the tonneau is that it leaks water around the rear lock and handle (easily remedied with some clear silicone caulk). Also leaks around the front seal but I have decided it has something to do with the mismatch with the underail bedliner. You might mention these concerns to your installer. The guy who installed mine scratched the bed rail when he was doing the install and I didn't notice it until later. Still a little upset about that. Also I would suggest that you have the installer use rubber coated clamps or at the very least use a small rubber insert between the clamp and the bed. A lot of folks on this forum are using the ARE tonneau but personally I like the lines of the Leer better. I took it off the Quad because I sometimes haul furniture and other large antiques that won't fit under the cover...like I said before I kinda wish I would have sprung for the Leer cap instead of the tonneau.
DUH! Please forgive my idiocy. I didn't give enough info on the carorder pricing data (it was late, I had spent all evening trying to get my printer to work (failed!), then I saw teckno's posting). Any way, the vehicle I priced was: red SLT, 4x2, 4.7L, auto, lsd, 3.55, power overhead conv group, power mirrors, HD service grp, HD cooling, tow pkg, buckets, AM/FM/CD. I checked with carorder here in Alabama. here is what they provided: INV -$21618; MSRP-$24095; carorder-$23178. That seemed awfully high til I read the price included tax, title, and license fees. Thing is, the tax in Madison County where I live is 4.5% and in Huntsville (the big city here), it is 8%, I think. At the 4.5% range (assuming they know I live in the county?), the carorder price makes sense if you add ad fees of about $400. Their invoice seemed to be high by about 140 from other sites, too. But carorder still seems a little high. How does this compare to what some of the rest of you paid for your QC? Just trying to get a sanity check.
Themacguy....I can tell this puppy has some power, I'm waiting until it gets some miles on it before I put on the lead filled tennis shoes.
I'm definitely going to get some decent All Terrain Tires for the new Quad, either BFG's or Bridgestone 691's. We are very limited in tire choices with 15 inch wheels. Here are the options I am considering....
1 - Having the factory wheels chromed and putting up with the limited 15" tire selection.
2 - Going to an aftermarket 16" wheel with the proper offset off course, and reaping the benefit of the wide selection of 16" tires on the market today.
Thanks! on my screen, the carorder price was approximately $1560 over invoice, which shocked the beejeebers out of me. Then saw that the price supposedly included those type taxes/fees you mentioned. But it seems their quote to you was just over invoice and then you dealt with the add-ons? I am trying to compare apples to apples, and I am now wondering if different states/regions provide these quotes to customers differently.
Read throught the Edmunds posts "Carorder.com experiences-Chapter4" (Topic #2044) Yes, apparently prices change not only from place to place, but from day to day.
Comments
If so, I think your ability to force DC to put this right could be limited. But that's not necessarily the end of it.
First, there may be laws in your state regulating dealers that give you rights against DC even if your contract is with the dealer and even if your contract says otherwise.
Second, even if DC is not legally obligated, they may step in to keep you happy. But it'll be best to know what their obligations are, if any, before you ask them to do that.
So, after you check the contract, try to find out whether there are any state laws that give you some rights against DC. I would suggest you start with your local Better Business Bureau. After that, you could try to do some basic legal research on the Web. Most states have their codes on line, although they can be hard to navigate.
Unfortunately, however, your legal recourse against the dealer may be limited if the dealer has actually declared bankruptcy. In that case, I believe you will have become an unsecured creditor, which essentially means you'll be standing in the same line as everyone else the dealer stiffed (e.g., the power company and the local deli). But take this with a grain of salt, since I don't practice bankruptcy law.
I hope this helps.
That is to say, your (previous) dealer probably "went under" ONLY because he mismanaged the operation, and that he knew sooner or later, he'd lose the franchise anyway! To drag well-meaning customers into his mess is a TRAVESTY!
A few questions:
1. Did the dealer supply you with a written worksheet (purchase agreement) on the buy, listing all the vehicle, all options and price?
2. Did you supply the dealer with a letter of understanding, listing the vehicle, options, prices and indicating that your deposit on the vehicle is fully refundable, and that you are under no obligation to purchase unless and until you've inspected the vehicle, the paperwork, and it's to your satisfaction?
3. Did the dealer supply you with a VON (Vehicle Order Number) within a couple of days after you made your deposit? It's his obligation to do so, or to relinquish your deposit.
4. Did you contact DC with a VON number and receive verification that your order had been entered?
Steve... If this had been 18 months ago, and my primary professional involvement were with Chrysler rather than Ford, I'd have you the name and number of the District Sales Manager in NO TIME!
Again, your story is something out of the '70s!!! It's incredulous that you can be bounced around like that!
My only advice (though I'll check a few local sources) is to contact DC... Tell the Rep (who's going to be a realtively powerless entry-level, recent college-grad... Tell s(he) that you want the name and number of of the District/Region Sales Manager for your area... Then tell your story from there.
Please keep me/us posted on this. As one who's spent a great deal of my professional training life for ten-plus years trying to bring the Chrysler retail automotive network op to speed on proper management of the sales operation to establish customer satisfaction and loyalty, this one cuts to the heart!
thank god most of you are happy out in Quadland.I am getting approx. 20 mpg on mixed town and hway driving.3.55/4.7 v8..3,200 miles so farand only a broken gas gauge to report.
Manual or auto? 4x4 or 4x2?
Thanks.
GOOD POINT on contacting the BBB... But it should be used in conjuction (or as a caveate) with contacting the Regional/District Folks.
We obviously have a dealership operation that must have been in trouble (probably for a NUMBER of reasons ranging from poor sales/F&I training to poor service/parts performance).
The young folks you'll be in contact through the toll-free DC number are largely unempowered. Yes, they have the ability to track orders, take complaints, etc.
HOWEVER, their next "big step" is to go into the field (Regions/Districts) as reps and begin dealing with both Sales and Service issues directly with the dealers. Next stop is perhaps an assistant Region/District Manager position... Where there's some true supervisory experience... Then perhaps being shipped back to one of the Areas to assume a "cushy position," good salalry and (distant) responsibility for what's going on in the field.
POINT:
Don't think for a moment that DC (as a company) doesn't want to remove poor-performing dealerships from its franchise network. Unfortunately there are franchises that will not recognize the balance between acceptable Sales, Parts and Service performance and CUSTOMER SATISFACTION.
Sorry to wax on here... But it truly disturbs me to hear about cases where the retail network does not uphold corporate goals.
PS -- Don't think, either, that Chrysler folks aren't monitoring this forum!
PSS -- Don't think that Chrysler folks aren't wondering "who this is" that's posting!
PSSS -- JEEZ!!! I hope I've still got the chance to develop more training for Chrysler! Not that I have anything against Toyota, Mazda, Lexus, Etc... But I'd really rather be working for a company on my home turf!
PSSSS -- Sorry for the long post... Just a bit concerned about the difference between corporate goals and dealership goals... 'NUFF SAID, except that if DC can somehow convince its dealers of the same, it's got the potential to create some remarkable customer loyalty!... Over-and-Out!
Down in "Ford Country" today for business with that client... And parked the Quad out-back of the building so as not to be conspicuious.
Got out of the meetings and BS... Talking casually, he asked me about the vehicle purchase... And here are a HUNDRED Ford vehicles (of all sorts) in the parking lot! (Do I feel a bit at-odds at this point!!??)
I tried to explain that I honestly wanted the Ford, but had priorities regarding garageabiity vs. the F-150 platform. He didn't relent... Until I put him behind the wheel...
NOPE! He couldn't sacrifice his allegience to the brand to the Dodge... Though he DID relent that it's an extremely responsive vehicle...
'NUFF SAID...
I think we're all on the right track.
cseiler - get the HD group if you tow or live in a hot climate. It's already saved me an engine - my extra cooling fan quit while idling in the field (relay fried) and the extra capacity saved my butt - barely.
quark99 / gsu1/ ahasher - Mobil 1 and Mobil 1 filters ($10) are great. You should be able to pick up 'bulk' M-1 oil at a discount that takes the $3.50 and up price to just about $2.15 to $2.25 per quart (of course I get oilfield discounts). I get mine from an oil (refined products) jobber. Oil changes using a rubber latex glove turned inside out at the top (roll the ARM portion up over the filter while using the finger tips to remove the filter) or heavy ziploc (freezer type) bag.
sh9589 - do you run your Quad at idle to get 20 mpg?!
cudaboy - try a Quad before you buy the R/T. I did and bought the Quad: faster with the 4.7 than the R/T 5.9. Quieter and as good a handling. ADD the rear sway bar (Hotchkiss) to a stock Quad, buy a set of the 17's off ebay, reset the speedo, stick a Super Bee sticker on it (I did) and you'll have something special. And 4 real seats. For the same or less money. Motor Trend did a Quad project, as did Hotchkiss and about a dozen others, and M/T is now working on shock valving, etc. The M/T effort was, and is IMPRESSIVE! I know of no ongoing work with the 5.9 engine other than some tweaking. I like the engine, but D/C is phasing it out soon. The 4.7 and the replacement for the 5.9 are getting all the development $$$. Oh, and you can also get a 5-spd with the 4.7 Quad. :-)=
Techno- thanx for your info from benica to napa is not as far as to redwood city. but it could take longer I guess.
Scott
If you're looking, give a buzz...I think the local lot has 2 4 x 4's and 2 4 x 2's...and 1 "stripper"...V6 w/auto, SLT base...good luck!
quark
I would go and rant and rave at the dealership, but I would be talking to empty space. When I was there three weeks ago, everything was 'great' at the dealership. This is a dealership that has been there for years. We bought my wife's Shadow there in April 93. The old dealer spun off his Dodge/Chrysler operations. They did a good business. No clue as to what happened yet, but it is over a hundred miles from me. I have relatives there checking out what happened.
So far DC has been helpful to a degree. They have transferred my VON to another dealer who is checking on the order. The caveat on this is that while DC wants him to honor the original deal, he has final say and may want more on his end. He has already said that they have taken over several orders, but one was way under the invoice price.
The contract I have is the standard DC contract which limits the relationship with the dealership. My deposit is with the dealership and therefore, absolves DC legally. So far, my best bet is to file claim with the county DA which will get me zip. I am going to try to work with DC until I get the vehicle. If I cannot work out some sort of deal with DC, then I may need to start legal action. While DC has some responsibilities, I would probably lose a court case. My advantage is that it is easier to win a small claims action and that defending any action on my part would cost DC more than my claim.
I am trying to remain positive about this. Any increase from the dealer that has my order now is not going to be any more than what I would have paid him if we had made a deal originally. I may be able to get a partial break from DC. Controlling my wife , however,is another problem. She just lost her new couch.
Thanks again for the support and help guys. I'll keep you informed of what happens.
after securing an order with a hefty deposit from an end user. We manufactured mobile equipment with
various attachments that met needs in many and sundry applications. This particular sale was to an automotive scrap yard. I was contacted by the end user, and they were not "happy campers." As there was some profit in the order, we accepted the order, and allowed the deposit against the order, but I had to clear it with the receivers. I did so by giving them a small percentage and then delivered the machine through another dealer who happened to be a factory branch (they were the closest dealer). I went with my regional tech
for the delivery, met with the servicing dealer and the customer was required to pay for the unit with a certified check. I sent the check to the company, and we distributed the funds including the 5% service fee to assure service through the warranty period. I even had the factory perform the PDI (pre delivery inspection) so that we could
proceed with all haste at time of delivery with just some minor settings of pressures, etc. So, it can be done. Did we do this from the goodness of our hearts? No, of course not. We did this because we knew that the end user would sue everybody in sight, and it would cost less to "deliver" than to "defend". Besides, at this point, we had the "deep pockets" and knew that we could spend money on "defend" and then more to "deliver". Although this is not a legal precedent, it may shed some light on corporate thinking. Hopefully, between D/C and the appointed delivering dealer you will emerge unscathed. Good luck, it is really a rotten break.
Bookitty
*2000 Quad Cab 4x4 SLT Plus
*4.7L V8
*Automatic transmission
*White exterior with Light Satin Driftwood rocker panels and fender flares.
*Mist Grey Interior
*Heavy Duty Service Group
*Bucket Seats with Console
*Sliding Rear Window
*Power Overhead Convenience Group
*Anti Spin Differential
*Power Drivers Seat
*Power 6 x 9 Mirrors
*SLT Plus Decor Group - includes Tire and Handling Package, etc.
*Fog Lamps
*AM-FM Cass/CD/EQ
If I had ordered this truck I would have added the Steering Wheel Radio Controls, a very inexpensive option once you get the required top dog radio, why this option was not chosen I don't know. Also I would have ordered the factory skid plates, not a big deal though since I don't off road that much anymore. I am going to have to add a platform receiver hitch, anyone have a good internet outlet on those?
I always deal with the Fleet people when I buy and this was no exception. Greg Birdsall is THE MAN at Huffines, accept no substitutes. He drives a Quad by the way, and has a PT Cruiser on order. I paid 337.00 over invoice which was knocked down below invoice with my 500.00 farm rebate. This dealership currently has an awesome selection of Quad 4x4's in Sports, SLT Plus, with 4.7L and 5.9L engines. I will be happy to help in any way I can, so email me if you have any questions. Huffines had pre-installed a drop in liner in my truck, Greg and I uninstalled it ourselves, without doing any damage, kudos Greg. Don't mean for this to sound like an infomercial folks, this was just the most pleasant truck buying experience I have had in awhile.
I LOVE THIS TRUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!! The build quality is oustanding, fit and finish is excellent. The 4.7 is very responsive, the truck simply feels tight and looks great! The cabin is quiet and rides smoothly for a half ton 4 wheel drive. Handling is most impressive especially when compared to the land barge F350. My best friend owns a nearby muffler shop, I'm thinking about having the exhaust split behind the converter and running a Flowmaster muffler, any feedback? The Rhino liner will be forthcoming in the next couple of weeks.
I seem to be FINDING errands to run this morning, time to close this novel for now. Sorry for being so long-winded.
Take care and be safe all....
Zach
Bookitty
optioned, except for the automatic transmission,
premium radio, powered/bucket seats and two tone
paint. I do have the skid plates, tow group, engine block heater and leather steering wheel cover. You have chosen a good package. My truck is painted Amber Fire Pearl which precludes the use of headlights. It creates its own aura of light. Good luck, you sound like one happy camper.
Bookitty
Caught my misspelled words and re-posted
Has anyone used carsatinvoice.com in Williamsburg, KY?
Thanks
My dealer and DC both said that the resumption of production will vary by plant. My dealer said his guess was that with no changes being made, the QC would probably resume production somewhat earlier than other models.
He also said (perhaps being overly optimistic) that my order might even be ready to ship in the middle of August. Anyone hearing anything similar?
5 speed/4.7 /4x2/
el cheapo gas!!!!!
The Quad is the second vehicle I have purchased from this dealership and I have been happy with their willingness to work with me and provide service after the sale. It is a very large dealership (they claim to be the largest Chrysler dealership in the world) so it is important to get a good salesperson. I recommend that you go to their website at www.landers.com and get their toll free number and call and ask for Melanie in sales. She was great to work with. I didn't have to talk to a sales manager once :-) and she didn't try to sell me a vehicle that I didn't want.
Zonk, my truck is a Red 4x4 4.7 5spd, 3.55 lsd, trailer tow pkg, heavy duty service, buckets, skid plates, with sports plus pkg that includes the tire and handling pkg. At the last minute I added the 6x9 power mirrors. I like them. I wish I would have added the top line cd/cass/stereo with wheel controls but otherwise I wouldn't change a thing on my order if I was doing it again. I also have a Leer tonneau which I have already taken off the truck. I like it better as a real pick-up and for my purposes a cap would have been a better choice. (Anybody need a flame red Leer tonneau?) The last add-on was a set of black (no chrome please)Westin step bars. I am shopping for push bars and grille guards but have not yet found ones I like.
Zonk, I wish you luck in your truck search. You will love this truck. If I can be of any help regarding landers,etc let me know.
Thanks for the info!
I had planned to get the Farm Bureau discount but I got a $400 college incentive instead (I'm an old grad student). Since my ordered truck only took about 4 weeks I would have been cutting it pretty close with the 30 day required waiting period for Farm Bureau. The $400 dollars came off the above figure (invoice including ad fees + 300) leaving a net of -$100 under invoice including ad fees). Hope this helps. Like I said before, if they have what you are looking for you can probably get a pretty good deal. They usually run a big promotion around Memorial Day. It might be worth checking out.
Now for the big surprise. My truck is on the lot and I received my final invoice yesterday. A $1000 Manufacturers rebate had been applied to my total! I am now at $940 below invoice w/o any ad fees.
I realize Carorder.coms prices fluctuate over area and time, but for those of you who have not ordered, I believe you should check out their web site and configure a truck. The price you will pay (unless it suddenly becomes $1000 less!?) shows up right away. Click "buy this car" and lock in if the price looks good to you.
As far as I know, there is no rebate on the Quad, but I've been wrong before.
By the way, at least here in New England, Carorder can't match my dealer.
Oh well, I'm getting used to everything being more expensive here. Gas is over $1.70.
zonk - I always pay for HD cooling or whatever - at a couple of hundred bucks it ain't going to break the bank, but heat related failures in TX absolutely WILL. bpeebles knows a lot more about this particular item - so I'd ask him about more specifics as he researched it pretty thoroughly and I didn't. I just 'check it off' on every vehicle I buy. It was 114 degrees at my lease today, so you know I'm happy I've got it. And I've already blown or fried two relays in the cooling system. I'm pretty sure the aux. electric cooling fan will go soon...
zach - You think this truck is great now, wait until it's broken in at about 800 miles!
To those that sent me notes privately about QC status at local dealerships, thanks again. My intention was to help carorder locate a vehicle for me. If I need to adjust my carorder invoice to the new pricing I'm going to drop them and go with a local dealership. If fact I'm off tomorrow morning to check out a SLT+ that's loaded at the dealership *and* in the color I want. (Well, almost I wanted solid, but this is the 2tone.) Another bennie, the wife has approved me buying the loaded vehicle if that's what I want. :-) Originally I ordered a base SLT with the couple of "must have" options for myself. So I'm psyched!
Lastly while checking local dealers I found two others that have close matches scedualed to arrive in the next week or so. So I might hold off for one of them if I don't like the vehicle tomorrow.
Thanks for thinking of me regarding the B-47 at Plattsburgh. I have been to the base during my military stint, and later as a civilian when I worked in the area (called upon Vin Jerry) and Murnane in later years. The B-47 that held the time aloft record for years was either there or in
Springfield, MA. A great ship to fly at the time.
Bookitty
PS Just flying the Quad now.
I personally was stunned to read my "final invoice" and find my price had dropped $1000 due to a "manufacturer rebate". I don't think you're wrong lmeyer1. I checked all internet sources today and saw no indication the QC had a rebate of any sort. I have no idea where they came up w/ this.
I am aware Carorder prices seem to fluctuate daily and from place to place. My advice to potential QC buyers is to check their price and check it regularly. Lock in if it looks good, go elsewhere if it does not.
The car is NOT in my driveway. I have been given a final price and sent my cashiers check to their escrow account. I will post w/ final results when delivery is complete.
I'll bet EVERTHING is not more expensive out there. CA state tax is 7.25% (counties and cities add more). I am paying $1415 sales tax on my truck.
I'm thinking of adding a couple things to protect the truck:
1) Crash Bars-I don't offroad (2wd Quad) but I'd like to protect from local CA morons who park using the sound method (ooops, crunch.) I'd like simple, single stainless or chrome bars that would bolt directly in front of the chrome strips on the front and rear bumpers (SLT) Has anyone seen anything aftermarket like this? Also, after spending almost a quarter-million miles behind the wheel of a Neon in ridiculous SF Bay Area traffic, I think it's time for a little "payback", in terms of pure intimidation...
2) Body rubber moldings. Not available for the Quad? Seen 'em on regular Dakotas and Durangos...maybe too "new" of a vehicle...?
3) Door edge protectors. Need to share garage space without dinging the wife's Avenger.
4) I know mudflaps are available-gotta get 'em...
Thanks-
-Quark-
Also, around 46 to 49 mph the truck has a low frequency hum from the rear. This is most noticeable when I let off of the gas pedal. Anybody know what this hum might be?
More to the point, I hope your experience with Carorder goes well. I think they're a pretty good outfit.
INV -$21618; MSRP-$24095; carorder-$23178.
That seemed awfully high til I read the price included tax, title, and license fees. Thing is, the tax in Madison County where I live is 4.5% and in Huntsville (the big city here), it is 8%, I think. At the 4.5% range (assuming they know I live in the county?), the carorder price
makes sense if you add ad fees of about $400.
Their invoice seemed to be high by about 140 from
other sites, too. But carorder still seems a little high.
How does this compare to what some of the rest of you paid for your QC? Just trying to get a sanity check.
I'm definitely going to get some decent All Terrain Tires for the new Quad, either BFG's or Bridgestone 691's. We are very limited in tire choices with 15 inch wheels. Here are the options I am considering....
1 - Having the factory wheels chromed and putting up with the limited 15" tire selection.
2 - Going to an aftermarket 16" wheel with the proper offset off course, and reaping the benefit of the wide selection of 16" tires on the market today.
Questions, comments, cheers or jeers...anyone?
Take care and be safe all,
Zach
Bookitty