Bookitty, maybe this is region specific too. I was able to price a QC out, although it did have some glitches (couldn't get rear defroster, for example).
drove the ford ranger to the dealership this morning to turn it in.. now I according to D/C have about 1 month to wait till the QC arrives to my dealer.. on the up side I have a VIN # so the truck is real & I leave for Hawaii on monday.. hope that every one is loving there trucks..
I checked on an identically equipped QC in TN, AL, and FL. There was a $1200 difference between TN (where I live) and FL (where my parents live). Guess where I will be going to get my QC if this remains the norm.
With my order cancealed with DC due to long term restrictions, I called around and found a local dealer with a close match. (Two other dealers with close matches too but different color and not on lot yet but orders show that they have left the factory)
I hate car salespeople, and I probably didn't get as good a deal as I could have, but after an hour and a half I wanted out of there. Settled on $600 over invoice, talked down from $1,200 over.
Ended up with a 4x4 4.7 auto 2tone forest green QC SLT Plus with towing and overhead power conv., split rear window, 6x9 folding mirrors, and fog lights
The vehicle still had rail dust on it. I pick it up tomorrow after they dealer prep it.
Thanks for all the help everyone has provided.
(BTW in the beginning I was looking at the F-150, and I can say that the Dakota groups are very civil and kind compared to some of the other town halls on this bulletin board.)
Let me be the first to congratulate you! I saw that exact color combination at the Dodge dealership I bought from here, it is stunning! I'm happy that you were able to find what you want up there, enjoy your new truck.
I agree 100% with your statement in regards to the people on this Forum. Lots of helpful information being exchanged between some very nice people, most of whom share the love of the QC. I have less than a 100 miles on mine but am going to wait until 500 miles before I post any further impressions. Well, perhaps a one word summary now......OUTSTANDING!
Hi group, I have been reading for a while and have learned so much from you. I need your help with negotiations when I pick up my QC. When I went to test drive and order my QC, the salesman (an Autobytel guy) led me to believe that the seats were buckets. I liked the seats and ordered bucket seats. Well, I later came to find out that I, in fact, had driven in the 40/20/40 split bench. I contacted the salesman and asked him to change the order because I wasn't getting what i thought i wanted. I also wanted to add the limited-slip diff. He didn't move on the order change when we were in BG status and supposedly had to try to get changes done by the district rep. in D status.
My QC was shipped on May 19 and it still has the bucket seats and they managed to add the LSD. My question is why should I have to pay for these seats when I was misled by the salesman? Additionally, we agreed on $350 over invoice and he just so happened to write on my order that it would be $400 over. I know that in total we are only talking about $220, but that could go toward my Rhino liner. Any suggestions on how I should proceed? Sorry for the book and thanks for your help.
Hello ...Was wondering if anyone is experiencing the same problem as my 2000 QC 4.7 Auto 4WD. Almost every morning when it first goes into reverse it stalls. The "one star" dealer I purchased from cannot figure it out, and of course when the truck stayed overnight at the dealer it behaved. Anbody experience this problem? Thanks
Ordered a Quad late Feb, it arrived last week. I went to pick it up today and it has paint runs in both rear doors at the front lower corner of the window frame. You can feel the runs, they are about the size around of your little finger's fingerprint. The truck is black and as you look down the side you see the distortion. I am disappointed as %$%#. The dealer has told me they will try to buff it out. If that doesn't work the alternative is for me to buy the truck and have Dodge to repaint the doors, have him locate another or order another. I know if I order one it will be a 2001 model and I don't want to go thru this ordeal again. The dealer has not offered any consolation on price. He insists it is already rock bottom. He doesn't want to repaint the doors without me purchasing it. He insists that if I don't take delivery after he repaints it he will have to disclose the repaint job to future potential buyers and this will make it more difficult to sell.
Question # 1. Maybe it is me, but I would like to know: Is there anyone out there that would take this vehicle with the blemishes and hope that Chrysler get's the repaint right? Your comments are welcome. Looking for a resolution.
Bookitty, you are the resident expert on patience here what do you think?
First, Congratulations on getting your new Quad. I`m sure you will be happy with it,as we all are. I think you did a smart thing checking the dipstick and using my "engineered fix". The noise you talk about I beleive is nothing to worry about.Mine seems to do the same thing. I have 5200 miles on mine! Good Luck with yours. Johnboy9
Flamingo26....I could never find a word on the Dodge web site to substantiate the rumor of a free bedliner on Dakotas purchased in May. Regarding your seats, there is no question that your salesman could have done a better job presenting the features and options on the truck. The question is, can you find what you want elsewhere if you walk away? It's late in the season and the dealer inventory of QC is not that great in some areas. I think I would approach the salesman using this tact. "we had a misunderstanding regarding these seats and since District was not able to change the order to the seats I really want, how about splitting the cost of the bucket seat option with me?" It never hurts to ask!
Iowabigguy...thank you very much, I bookmarked their site am going to peruse it in the morning.
JoyJr...I feel your pain! In my opinion, you lose leverage with the dealer once you have signed the papers. I don't think its possible to "buff out" runs in the paint, that calls for sanding and repainting. Your truck is the worst color for showing scratches and any imperfections under the paint is magnified as well. I would not want a buffer used on my brand new black truck. I've seen too many black vehicles with swirls and buffer marks.
Personally, I would not take the vehicle in hopes that Chrysler would take care of it afterwards. And this scenario the salesman has come up with is a complete laugher, he is trying to pressure you into taking the truck before its repaired. I only wish there was complete disclosure on what damage a vehicle has sustained while being built and transported to the dealer, it would probably scare the heck out of a us! New cars that were damaged and repaired between birth and sale are purchased every day in this country by unsuspecting buyers who are NEVER made aware of the cars history. Me? I would walk away from this one.
colbates, congratulations on your moving forward on this truck. The green is a great color, and it is the other color I considered before Amber Fire. Almost all of my vehicles have been green (by choice) and my wife told me that it was time for a change. Always forget the deal, as that is past history and "it's over!" Now, it is time to thoroughly enjoy your new Quad. Good luck.
Actually, I'm really not as patient as would appear. It is just that I had the luxury of keeping my company leased Expedition for some time after I retired. As far as the buffing goes, I tend to agree with texaszach as to swirls, etc. Whatever happens, don't let anyone pressure you into a decision until you have explored all options. If you decide to allow D/C to repaint the doors (and I'm certain that it would be done locally as in "dealer body shop"), then you must have assurance in writing that it must be done to your satisfaction. Even then, there are folks on this forum who could offer up advice that would carry a far higher level of expertise than I could muster. Whatever path you choose, I wish you the best.
I also belong to the Dakota Mailing List. A number of people there have reported stalling and idle fluctuations in the 4.7. No one seems to have an answer, however. Sorry I couldn't do better for you.
I wouldn't sign off nor "buy" the dealer's disclosure crap cause if it's going to be done right the dealer is going to have no problem moving the vehicle to someone else, disclosure or not. My dealer had three legitimate offers for my truck, because it was an eight cylinder and we are in the gap between the 00's and 01's. If it can be corrected to your satisfaction, you'll sign, if not, ask to speak to the district manager about going to the head of the '01 line.
On the one hand, if he makes and discloses the repair, the truck will be harder to sell. If this is true, then as a practical matter it means he'll probably end up lowering the price to get it to move.
Yet, on the other hand, he thinks you, and apparently only you, should pay full price (i.e., the price you agreed to assuming an unblemished truck). HUH???????
If it were me, I wouldn't take delivery until it was fixed to my satisfaction, even if I had to wait another three months. But that's mainly because the load your dealer is shoving your way would get my back up pretty quickly.
Also, it's easy for me to say since I'm not the one who has to turn his back on his truck.
I've been away from the forum this week due to meetings in Detroit (ironically with Ford clients). This forced me to run my QC (still breaking in) in some rather horrific driving conditions, both highway and city... Even had to put it near the floor a couple of times to get through heavy traffic.
BUT... I stopped to refill yesterday, and was absolutely astounded by the gain mileage since the previous fill-up. The 5.9 jumped from 12.8 to 14.2 mpg! This may not sound very impressive to those of you with the 4.7, but I drove Ram 5.9 with smooth-fitting cap for 5 years, and NEVER achieved more that 13.8 mpg.
Picked up the Fold-a-Cover yesterday... Read through the iinstallation instructions, and it looks like about 8-10 hours for a proper install (how I'll spend my weekend). Hoping the tonneau will net me a fractional increase in mileage, and waiting to see the final mpg outcome after the engine's fully broken in.
STEVE234: VERY sorry to hear of your continuing frustration and wish I could offer a solution.
If your new dealer is a Five Star store, you might suggest that you're disappointed in any failure to honor the original purchase price... and that your scoring on the CSI survey probably won't help his standings. If you really wanted to apply some non-legal leverage, you might also suggest that you will contact DC in writing to question the dealer's Five-Star status.
TEX: Your comments concerning the Quad vs. the F350 "land barge" always draw a chuckle! I can relate! Driving the QC makes me realize just how much WORK it was to pilot the Ram!
KIRK: Thanks for the tip on the flaps! I purchased a set from the dealership, but have not installed and may still return them without penalty since they're off-the-shelf rather than special-order. I'll check out the site, and see what they have to offer!
MISC: -- Installed Lund bug shield with eyebrows and vent visors on all 4 doors... Wind noise at speed is slightly higher, but those visors are sure great in the rain!!!
-- Spent the week down at a Ford training center, where my QC was rather conspicuous sitting there amongst virtually every 2000 model Ford imaginable - both car and truck. We broke up on Tuesday, and a dealership General Manager (driving a Sport Trac) wandered over as I was packing my stuff up in the back seat... He was more than a bit curious about the QC... Asking lots of questions... Asked me why I didn't order a Sport Trac instead... I explained that the issues were power and garageability... He questioned the power issue until I explained that it's 360 cubes and rattled off the torque, hp, and power-to-weight ratios off to him... He walked away sort of scratching his head.
The whole idea behind ordering a truck is to get the truck with the options and colors you want. I ordered a new truck because I could not find a club-cab with a V8, 5 spd., and a 3.92 rear-end (new or used). Everything with a v8 was totally loaded (95% automatics). This doesn't mean the build quality should be any different because the ordered truck was built for you. I took delivery of our new truck with the bed misaligned. The misaligned bed was somewhat fixed the following week. Somewhat fixed because they forgot to tighten 3 of the bed bolts and left the rear bumper misaligned. I have since written a letter to Bob Ferrero, the owner of the dealership. In this letter, I praised his sales staff, but attacked his body shop for the poor workmanship. Thanks to a previous forum about replacing used bed bolts, I will be getting all new bed bolts (I hope). The dealership wanted to pick my truck up from my house (20 miles away) and bring it back when the repairs were complete. I said my wife will drive it there, and wait for it to be repaired. I don't trust any body else driving it after that kid technician drove it. The kid thought I was gone so he could spin the rear tires as he left the parking lot. He did not realize that I came back outside to see if he would treat the the truck the way I asked his too (take it easy-it's new). I have experienced some hard starting after stalling the truck in the sand-dunes. But this is normal as I was learning I need to give the truck more gas when plowing through deep sand.
Back now, but only skimmed through the 100s of missed posts. If I missed anything directed my way I apologise, ask me again and I'll do my absolute bestest to make amends :-)
I tried to browse thru greenlight.com. Their manufacturer list did not include Dodge, but did have Chrysler, Plymouth, and Jeep listed. To top that I don't live in an area where they currently do business, but in order to get a feel for their site, I could choose to use a zip code from an area where they do conduct operations. So, I input the Atlanta code. But still wasn't able to choose "dodge" from their list of manufacturers. Disappointing.
I'm getting this typical "we can't duplicate the condition" story from the dealership about fixing my squeaky bench seat. I believe someone posted earlier on this board about the same issue, and the seat being replaced by the dealership. If anyone has any advice or is dealing with this same irritating defect, please post! thanks- -quark
To those with any interest at all... I'm heading out to the garage this moment to handle the preliminaries (off-truck) on the Fold-a-Cover, and will log my time. I'll document any difficulties or tips as the installation is completed.
I'm taking my time on this one! It's a beautiful day out, so I'm reserving time for the hammock!
TO ALL: Be safe, and watch out for the crazies out there this holiday weekend!
I emailed greenlight yesterday about not being able to access Dodge. They fixed their site and I can now select Dodge from their list. Of course, in my locale, I must put in a zip code of an area where greenlight does business in order to browse.
Please let us know how easy or hard it is. I am getting ready to go out of town for the weekend but next week I plan to start shopping for either the folding cover or the gull wing cover.
Everyone be careful this weekend. Remember the other guy might not be driving a new Quad and could be jealous. Seriously everyone be careful and have fun this weekend.
New to this topic. Presently leasing a Dodge Dakota SLT CC. Will be getting ready to order new one soon. Seriously thinking about getting QC. Forum is very informative. Have been a Dodge truck owner for the last 22 years. All have been good to me. Present CC has been flawless since day 1.
Time to vent again. The Dodge debacle continues. It looks like I will also have to join the list of waiters for the 2001 model year. I ordered my QC on 17 Apr, but I had heard there was a 5 May deadline and felt confident I would get my truck this summer. As of today, mine hasn't entered the assembly line and still remains on a BG status as a valid order. The dealer told me today that his info from the Zone Manager is that mine should be built as a 2001 in August with a guess of a September delivery. He said he also lost his 2000 orders for three QC 4x4s for his dealer stock. A V6/5-speed, a 4.7L/5-speed, and a 4.7L/auto.
My Specs: Patriot Blue Quad Cab 4x4 SLT 4.7L 5-speed 3.55 Limited Slip Diff. 4-wheel ABS SLT Plus AM/FM/CD/Cassette Leather Steering Wheel Overhead Convenience Group Fog Lights 6" x 9" Mirrors Towing Package HD Service Group Power Front Driver’s Seat
I wish I knew which part is the hold-up for the restriction. Anyone have a clue? All I ever hear from the D/C customer service line is their info shows a hold on the V6 and the Tire/Handling Group. I'll follow up with more information as I get it. The dealer is now trying to locate a similar truck outside the Zone. Before I ordered, he checked the local Zone of NC, VA, MD, and WV, but couldn’t find a 4x4 4.7L with a 5-speed.
Meanwhile, my Patriot Blue Leer tonneau arrived at the truck accessory store and is waiting without a truck to put it on. Sorry for the long venting session, but I feel a little better. No, I don’t!! I want my quad now!!
I don't want to rub it in but it sounds like you are ordering my truck. I picked mine up on the 2nd of this month and it is fantastic. If you can keep from killing your salesman and blowing up the dealership you will one day be rewarded with the best looking and driving truck on the road. Depending on where you live I can keep my eye open for one on the dealer lots here in Atlanta if it will help.
I wondered why I felt a little strange going to work last Monday! Seriously, Can't you order bucket seats and the power overhead convenience group? The greenlight site won't let me. Don't think I have run into that on toher sites. Also, what are slush mats?
Well guys, I told you I would keep you informed of the latest saga of my little soap opera. I finally got a response from the new dealer handling my order. Despite what the customer service rep says, since nobody notified me until after the cutoff (even tho I have a 'good' order) I get to have a 2001 Quad in September. I am busy talking to voice mail right now, but I don't forsee any relief. It looks like I will take over from bookity for the longest time Quad on order. Unfortunately, unlike bookity, this puts me in a bind. I had considered getting a Supercrew, but the Ford dealer can't get me one any sooner than the Quad. These are days that tries a man's patience.
I have a 2000 Club Cab SLT with the 5 spd. My truck randomly stalls after letting up on the gas from normal driving speeds. Anyone else seen this? email me jasonlester@hotmail.com
I myself had the squeaking seat syndrome, took truck into the dealer for oil change and minor fixes and presented the seat problem (mine are buckets) They loosened up the seat then had the biggest boy in the shop (280 lbs.+) sit in the seat while they tightened it back up...over a week has gone by and so far so good. The guys at this Dealership were great, they let me watch and approve all repair work, even let me get on their computer and check TSB's, and flip through their shop manuals.
With 3300 miles on the truck (2wd, 4.7, auto, 3.92) still getting 14.0 mpg in town (semi-heavy foot) and 17.5 on highway.
Has anybody seen black "diamond tread" bed rails and tail gate protectors yet? Also looking for the same in a single lid tool box. Have checked Dee Zee among others but so far no luck.
LucasB: I was also having the stalling problem on cool mornings...truck would start, run about 5 seconds then die, problem has gone away (as so the cool weather).
Bookitty: Are you getting many compliments on your trucks color? I'm getting a lot of questions about the color, more so than about the truck itself...people love the "Amber Fire"
A question for all. Do you remember reading about a liquid running out of the engine compartment in earlier posts? Well I came home from work today, and after getting out I turned as usual to admire the truck and noticed a small puddle forming on the ground. As most QCers would do I dropped everything and crawled under only to discover the leak coming from a hole in the back fire wall just to the right of the left exhaust tube. Where this hole leads to I am not sure but 45 minutes later it is still dripping. The fluid?? well it is odorless and clear. Refrigerant? Maybe. Is it odorless and clear? I don't have a full manual, (where do I get one?,) so I am not sure where the hole leads too. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Ordered March 22 Manufactured May1 Shipped May 5 arrived May 26
QCSLT 4.7 5spd 3.92 LSD HD Tow 2WD Pat Blue
Hey, I haven't picked it up yet, had a quick peek, it has a slight 1/4" tear on the front windshield moulding, same size nick on mirror. Box seemed lined up, may be a few other nicks. Opinions are nice, but actually how fussy should I be about these little details, and if I do raise the question what can I do to apply leverage to the dealer
The dealer recieved a dozen quads and confirms - no more QC's until August
I called DC and I was too late and got the after hours message. So taking a chance I called the general question line (888-4A-Dodge) They knew of the offer and knew that it's only being offers in certain regions, but they did not have the info on which regions are included in the offer.
I am also one of those lurkers who are fortunate enough to have gotten their quad and have learned a lot from this forum. Here are a few updates on some issues presented in the forum:
Paint Defects: My Patriot Blue quad was order (02/18) via carorder.com and delivered (05/05) through a dealer 100 miles away. As part of the delivery inspection, numerous pot marks (dirt particle under the paint), 2 scratched down to the primer, and one major paint run on the lower corner of the window on the rear driver side door were found. I called the shipping dealer who explained they would fix it or I could have a local dealer correct issue. Went to Butler-Conti Dodge and the Service Manager took one look and said, "you didn't buy it here and I won't fix it!!!" [Major Jerk!]. After calling DC, they said, "We could try and force them to fix it, but you may not be happy with their work." Needless to say I was pretty ticked-off, so I asked DC to call another Dodge dealer about 10 miles away just for luck. Lithia Dodge of Concord bent over backwards to fix the problems and work around my schedule. They repainted all the effected areas. I just got the quad back today and it looks great. I'm glad I didn’t reject the vehicle when it was delivered.
Child Seat Anchors: They are in stock and free of charge including installation. My understanding is that there is a Tech Bulletin to cover this item.
Rhino Lining: Had a black over-rail Rhino installed, looks great glad I did it.
I picked up my QC this morning. Drove around and didn errands to put the 60 miles on it so I could take the Hwy. to work. I'll try to follow the break in guidlines. Only instead of the 50-55, I'll do 60-65. Instead of my normal 70+ traveling with the flow of traffic.
I don't pick up on details very easily, but after getting it to work I noticed a few things while showing it to my co-workers. Front bumper or headlights are slightly off. Distance between bumper and headlight on driver's side is more than a finger's width, and less than a finger's width on the passenger side.
One black grease spot on roof interior back corner behind driver's seat. (How it got there I have no clue)
One paint imperfection in the passenger side bed rail. Looks like they got a piece of dirt in the paint.
Also the salesman clean up a bunch of dirt smudges left behind by thier (his words) "high school kids" that they have prep the cars. I found a few more smudges that he missed.
I can clean the smudges. The paint don't bother me. However, I will ask them to clean the grease spot and fix the headlight/bumer alignment. Also I noticed with other new cars I've bought I've recieved a complimentary tube of touch-up paint. I didn't this time. However, I did recieve a complimentary car care cleaning kit.
BTW: the folks at work love the truck too. Esp. after giving them a ride. I put the tallest one (over 6 feet) in the back. He was amazed by the comfort.
Oh, yeah another thing. I've got the 40-20-40 bench seat. The passenger seat appears and feels like it is narrower then the driver's side. I haven't measured it (yet) to verify. my wie noticed that.
The stalling of the 4.7 when the clutch is pushed was first reported by myself in these forums many months ago. Please review previous posts for details. I can say that the problem subsides as the engine computer 'learns' how to idle. (Recall that I have memorized much of the shop manual and KNOW about computers from the point of 1's and 0's... see my profile)
Be wary of allowing the dealer to just 'flash' the PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) Unless it is truly an UPDATE and not a RESET to defaults, you may find the problems will persist. (you would be starting with a 'stupid' computer that needs to start learning from scratch all over again) Do not forget that it has been reported to take up to 4000 miles for the computer(s) to re-learn the idle / shifting...etc.
The fluid leak to the right-rear of the engine is most likely CONDENSATION from the AC system.... Read your owners manual.
(themacguy) I do not blame you for getting the HD service group all of the time for Texas. Here in Vermont, may do not see temperatures that high more than a couple times a year. Nonetheless, the 4.7L has much of the HD service group ANYWAY. (including the tranny cooler for the automatic)
I am constantly impressed by some of the engineering niceties built into the Dakota.
Be it known, if one accidentally does not close a door tight ... the battery WILL NOT be drained. The system timer will turn off the interior lights to save your battery. (System timer is for wipers, interior lights...etc)
I cannot count how many times with my last truck that the door would not close tight in -40f degree temperatures and the interior light drained the battery overnight.... NOT A PROBLEM WITH THE DAKOTA. (Although the door seals may still get so stiff that the door does not close tight.)
I'm running a 5 speed 4.7 4x4 and just broke 1,000 miles. I usually get a shutter while in gear or with the clutch in after letting off the gas. I can see the tach needle drop almost to zero and then recover but it has never stalled. Still getting 15-17 mpg around town / short trips.
Glad I got the Lt. Driftwood. You can hardly see the normal road dust / dirt. Have hard water so I try to wash it in the rain to get the big stuff off, hose it down and let the rain finish it off.
Just get rid of the 'extra' appends by clicking on the append# (The only ones blue for you) then click on "scribble" to erase it.
Your engine 'stumble' with the 4.7 is the very same one discussed months ago in the other Dakota forums. Ill bet it 'stumbles' only when the truck is rolling and as soon as the road-speed hits 0.0MPH the idle smoothes out. It will improve as the engine 'loosens up' and the on-board computer continues to 'learn' your habits and other variables that affect the engine operation.
I found that I was able to 'speed up' the learning process by pushing the clutch and coasting down long hills. The idle would 'hunt' for awhile then stabilize as the learning process took over. I am now at over 8000 miles and my Dakota is much less prone to stalling than it was when new.
This new Club-cab Dakota passed the test with flying colors. I wasn't sure how this new engine would do compared to my old 92 Dakota. I think the 5 spd. and suspension really make the difference. 16.2 mpg with a 1400 pound Northstar pop-up camper on it's back. This after driving up Cameron Pass (10,276 feet) and goofing-off in the sand dunes (4x4 in Low). I have the 4.7 V8 with 3.92 rear-end, extra payload package, and the Sport Plus package. I can't even tell the camper is on this truck (except it rides better with the weight). The only complaint is that the gas gage seems off. I fill up with only 1/8 tank showing on the gage, but only manage to put 16 gallons of gas in the gas tank. I would like to see 19-20 gallons go in between fill-ups.
Cameron Pass and sand dunes,where would this be? Can you drive dune buggies in these dunes? How large an area are these dunes? Colorado maybe.Our Quad has stalled a few times in the morning too. Not really a problem though. I don't get to drive the Quad very often,so I've asked my wife about it,she reports no problems. We've had fluid drip after using the air conditioner. Don't worry be happy, my wife is very happy! That makes me happy, so now everybodys happy. Yes the F-350 Crew is a type of land yacht but when the family goes to the dunes with sandcars,quads,fuel,water and all the other stuff the Dakota Quad stays home. It has its roll in life,and towing 8000+lbs is not part of its job description.
Can anyone tell me how many break-in miles should I accumulate before towing a trailer? I tow 2 waverunners. Total weight approx. 1400 pounds. My son (17) drives a jeep and would be more than happy to switch me vehicles this weekend. Not an option.
I will be TDY to Patuxant River NAWC, MD next week and will check out a couple of Dodge dealers to see if they have anything close to your spec's. Also, I will be TDY to NADEP Cherry point, Havelock, NC next month and will check out the local Dodge dealer there. Cherry Point Dodge advertises all new vehicles at $49.00 over invoice.
Comments
Scott
I hate car salespeople, and I probably didn't get as good a deal as I could have, but after an hour and a half I wanted out of there. Settled on $600 over invoice, talked down from $1,200 over.
Ended up with a 4x4 4.7 auto 2tone forest green QC SLT Plus with towing and overhead power conv., split rear window, 6x9 folding mirrors, and fog lights
The vehicle still had rail dust on it. I pick it up tomorrow after they dealer prep it.
Thanks for all the help everyone has provided.
(BTW in the beginning I was looking at the F-150, and I can say that the Dakota groups are very civil and kind compared to some of the other town halls on this bulletin board.)
I agree 100% with your statement in regards to the people on this Forum. Lots of helpful information being exchanged between some very nice people, most of whom share the love of the QC. I have less than a 100 miles on mine but am going to wait until 500 miles before I post any further impressions. Well, perhaps a one word summary now......OUTSTANDING!
kirk
When I went to test drive and order my QC, the salesman (an Autobytel guy) led me to believe that the seats were buckets. I liked the seats and ordered bucket seats. Well, I later came to find out that I, in fact, had driven in the 40/20/40 split bench. I contacted the salesman and asked him to change the order because I wasn't getting what i thought i wanted. I also wanted to add the limited-slip diff.
He didn't move on the order change when we were in BG status and supposedly had to try to get changes done by the district rep. in D status.
My QC was shipped on May 19 and it still has the bucket seats and they managed to add the LSD. My question is why should I have to pay for these seats when I was misled by the salesman? Additionally, we agreed on $350 over invoice and he just so happened to write on my order that it would be $400 over. I know that in total we are only talking about $220, but that could go toward my Rhino liner.
Any suggestions on how I should proceed? Sorry for the book and thanks for your help.
Question # 1. Maybe it is me, but I would like to know: Is there anyone out there that would take this vehicle with the blemishes and hope that Chrysler get's the repaint right? Your comments are welcome. Looking for a resolution.
Bookitty, you are the resident expert on patience here what do you think?
I`m sure you will be happy with it,as we all are.
I think you did a smart thing checking the dipstick and using my "engineered fix". The noise
you talk about I beleive is nothing to worry
about.Mine seems to do the same thing. I have
5200 miles on mine! Good Luck with yours.
Johnboy9
Iowabigguy...thank you very much, I bookmarked their site am going to peruse it in the morning.
JoyJr...I feel your pain! In my opinion, you lose leverage with the dealer once you have signed the papers. I don't think its possible to "buff out" runs in the paint, that calls for sanding and repainting. Your truck is the worst color for showing scratches and any imperfections under the paint is magnified as well. I would not want a buffer used on my brand new black truck. I've seen too many black vehicles with swirls and buffer marks.
Personally, I would not take the vehicle in hopes that Chrysler would take care of it afterwards. And this scenario the salesman has come up with is a complete laugher, he is trying to pressure you into taking the truck before its repaired. I only wish there was complete disclosure on what damage a vehicle has sustained while being built and transported to the dealer, it would probably scare the heck out of a us! New cars that were damaged and repaired between birth and sale are purchased every day in this country by unsuspecting buyers who are NEVER made aware of the cars history. Me? I would walk away from this one.
Take care and be safe all,
Zach
Almost all of my vehicles have been green (by choice) and my wife told me that it was time for a change. Always forget the deal, as that is past history and "it's over!" Now, it is time to thoroughly enjoy your new Quad. Good luck.
Bookitty
Whatever happens, don't let anyone pressure you into a decision until you have explored all options. If you decide to allow D/C to repaint the
doors (and I'm certain that it would be done locally as in "dealer body shop"), then you must have assurance in writing that it must be done to your satisfaction. Even then, there are folks on this forum who could offer up advice that would carry a far higher level of expertise than I could muster. Whatever path you choose, I wish you the best.
Bookitty
On the one hand, if he makes and discloses the repair, the truck will be harder to sell. If this is true, then as a practical matter it means he'll probably end up lowering the price to get it to move.
Yet, on the other hand, he thinks you, and apparently only you, should pay full price (i.e., the price you agreed to assuming an unblemished truck). HUH???????
If it were me, I wouldn't take delivery until it was fixed to my satisfaction, even if I had to wait another three months. But that's mainly because the load your dealer is shoving your way would get my back up pretty quickly.
Also, it's easy for me to say since I'm not the one who has to turn his back on his truck.
Good luck.
BUT... I stopped to refill yesterday, and was absolutely astounded by the gain mileage since the previous fill-up. The 5.9 jumped from 12.8 to 14.2 mpg! This may not sound very impressive to those of you with the 4.7, but I drove Ram 5.9 with smooth-fitting cap for 5 years, and NEVER achieved more that 13.8 mpg.
Picked up the Fold-a-Cover yesterday... Read through the iinstallation instructions, and it looks like about 8-10 hours for a proper install (how I'll spend my weekend). Hoping the tonneau will net me a fractional increase in mileage, and waiting to see the final mpg outcome after the engine's fully broken in.
STEVE234:
VERY sorry to hear of your continuing frustration and wish I could offer a solution.
If your new dealer is a Five Star store, you might suggest that you're disappointed in any failure to honor the original purchase price... and that your scoring on the CSI survey probably won't help his standings. If you really wanted to apply some non-legal leverage, you might also suggest that you will contact DC in writing to question the dealer's Five-Star status.
TEX:
Your comments concerning the Quad vs. the F350 "land barge" always draw a chuckle! I can relate! Driving the QC makes me realize just how much WORK it was to pilot the Ram!
KIRK:
Thanks for the tip on the flaps! I purchased a set from the dealership, but have not installed and may still return them without penalty since they're off-the-shelf rather than special-order. I'll check out the site, and see what they have to offer!
MISC:
-- Installed Lund bug shield with eyebrows and vent visors on all 4 doors... Wind noise at speed is slightly higher, but those visors are sure great in the rain!!!
-- Spent the week down at a Ford training center, where my QC was rather conspicuous sitting there amongst virtually every 2000 model Ford imaginable - both car and truck. We broke up on Tuesday, and a dealership General Manager (driving a Sport Trac) wandered over as I was packing my stuff up in the back seat... He was more than a bit curious about the QC... Asking lots of questions... Asked me why I didn't order a Sport Trac instead... I explained that the issues were power and garageability... He questioned the power issue until I explained that it's 360 cubes and rattled off the torque, hp, and power-to-weight ratios off to him... He walked away sort of scratching his head.
Sorry for the wordiness and regards to all!
This doesn't mean the build quality should be any different because the ordered truck was built for you. I took delivery of our new truck with the bed misaligned. The misaligned bed was somewhat fixed the following week. Somewhat fixed because they forgot to tighten 3 of the bed bolts and left the rear bumper misaligned. I have since written a letter to Bob Ferrero, the owner of the dealership. In this letter, I praised his sales staff, but attacked his body shop for the poor workmanship. Thanks to a previous forum about replacing used bed bolts, I will be getting all new bed bolts (I hope). The dealership wanted to pick my truck up from my house (20 miles away) and bring it back when the repairs were complete. I said my wife will drive it there, and wait for it to be repaired. I don't trust any body else driving it after that kid technician drove it. The kid thought I was gone so he could spin the rear tires as he left the parking lot. He did not realize that I came back outside to see if he would treat the the truck the way I asked his too (take it easy-it's new).
I have experienced some hard starting after stalling the truck in the sand-dunes. But this is normal as I was learning I need to give the truck more gas when plowing through deep sand.
Thanks in advance.
Back now, but only skimmed through the 100s of missed posts. If I missed anything directed my way I apologise, ask me again and I'll do my absolute bestest to make amends :-)
thanks-
-quark
I'm taking my time on this one! It's a beautiful day out, so I'm reserving time for the hammock!
TO ALL: Be safe, and watch out for the crazies out there this holiday weekend!
Everyone be careful this weekend. Remember the other guy might not be driving a new Quad and could be jealous. Seriously everyone be careful and have fun this weekend.
new one soon. Seriously thinking about getting QC.
Forum is very informative. Have been a Dodge truck owner for the last 22 years. All have been good to me. Present CC has been flawless since day 1.
My Specs:
Patriot Blue Quad Cab 4x4 SLT
4.7L
5-speed
3.55 Limited Slip Diff.
4-wheel ABS
SLT Plus
AM/FM/CD/Cassette
Leather Steering Wheel
Overhead Convenience Group
Fog Lights
6" x 9" Mirrors
Towing Package
HD Service Group
Power Front Driver’s Seat
I wish I knew which part is the hold-up for the restriction. Anyone have a clue? All I ever hear from the D/C customer service line is their info shows a hold on the V6 and the Tire/Handling Group. I'll follow up with more information as I get it. The dealer is now trying to locate a similar truck outside the Zone. Before I ordered, he checked the local Zone of NC, VA, MD, and WV, but couldn’t find a 4x4 4.7L with a 5-speed.
Meanwhile, my Patriot Blue Leer tonneau arrived at the truck accessory store and is waiting without a truck to put it on. Sorry for the long venting session, but I feel a little better. No, I don’t!! I want my quad now!!
We were off last Monday for old Queen Vic's birthday - she must be getting on a bit now!!
Rebate - hmm, not familiar with that term - sorry this happens sometimes, something gets lost in the English / Canadian / American translation.
Oh well, I'm sure it wasn't important.
email me jasonlester@hotmail.com
With 3300 miles on the truck (2wd, 4.7, auto, 3.92) still getting 14.0 mpg in town (semi-heavy foot) and 17.5 on highway.
Has anybody seen black "diamond tread" bed rails and tail gate protectors yet? Also looking for the same in a single lid tool box. Have checked Dee Zee among others but so far no luck.
LucasB: I was also having the stalling problem on cool mornings...truck would start, run about 5 seconds then die, problem has gone away (as so the cool weather).
Bookitty: Are you getting many compliments on your trucks color? I'm getting a lot of questions about the color, more so than about the truck itself...people love the "Amber Fire"
cowtownkid
Thanks!
Manufactured May1
Shipped May 5
arrived May 26
QCSLT 4.7 5spd 3.92 LSD HD Tow 2WD Pat Blue
Hey, I haven't picked it up yet, had a quick peek, it has a slight 1/4" tear on the front windshield moulding, same size nick on mirror. Box seemed lined up, may be a few other nicks.
Opinions are nice, but actually how fussy should I be about these little details, and if I do raise the question what can I do to apply leverage to the dealer
The dealer recieved a dozen quads and confirms - no more QC's until August
Paint Defects: My Patriot Blue quad was order (02/18) via carorder.com and delivered (05/05) through a dealer 100 miles away. As part of the delivery inspection, numerous pot marks (dirt particle under the paint), 2 scratched down to the primer, and one major paint run on the lower corner of the window on the rear driver side door were found. I called the shipping dealer who explained they would fix it or I could have a local dealer correct issue. Went to Butler-Conti Dodge and the Service Manager took one look and said, "you didn't buy it here and I won't fix it!!!" [Major Jerk!]. After calling DC, they said, "We could try and force them to fix it, but you may not be happy with their work." Needless to say I was pretty ticked-off, so I asked DC to call another Dodge dealer about 10 miles away just for luck. Lithia Dodge of Concord bent over backwards to fix the problems and work around my schedule. They repainted all the effected areas. I just got the quad back today and it looks great. I'm glad I didn’t reject the vehicle when it was delivered.
Child Seat Anchors: They are in stock and free of charge including installation. My understanding is that there is a Tech Bulletin to cover this item.
Rhino Lining: Had a black over-rail Rhino installed, looks great glad I did it.
Tom
I don't pick up on details very easily, but after getting it to work I noticed a few things while showing it to my co-workers. Front bumper or headlights are slightly off. Distance between bumper and headlight on driver's side is more than a finger's width, and less than a finger's width on the passenger side.
One black grease spot on roof interior back corner behind driver's seat. (How it got there I have no clue)
One paint imperfection in the passenger side bed rail. Looks like they got a piece of dirt in the paint.
Also the salesman clean up a bunch of dirt smudges left behind by thier (his words) "high school kids" that they have prep the cars. I found a few more smudges that he missed.
I can clean the smudges. The paint don't bother me. However, I will ask them to clean the grease spot and fix the headlight/bumer alignment. Also I noticed with other new cars I've bought I've recieved a complimentary tube of touch-up paint. I didn't this time. However, I did recieve a complimentary car care cleaning kit.
BTW: the folks at work love the truck too. Esp. after giving them a ride. I put the tallest one (over 6 feet) in the back. He was amazed by the comfort.
Oh, yeah another thing. I've got the 40-20-40 bench seat. The passenger seat appears and feels like it is narrower then the driver's side. I haven't measured it (yet) to verify. my wie noticed that.
Be wary of allowing the dealer to just 'flash' the PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) Unless it is truly an UPDATE and not a RESET to defaults, you may find the problems will persist.
(you would be starting with a 'stupid' computer that needs to start learning from scratch all over again) Do not forget that it has been reported to take up to 4000 miles for the computer(s) to re-learn the idle / shifting...etc.
The fluid leak to the right-rear of the engine is most likely CONDENSATION from the AC system.... Read your owners manual.
(themacguy) I do not blame you for getting the HD service group all of the time for Texas. Here in Vermont, may do not see temperatures that high more than a couple times a year. Nonetheless, the 4.7L has much of the HD service group ANYWAY. (including the tranny cooler for the automatic)
Be it known, if one accidentally does not close a door tight ... the battery WILL NOT be drained.
The system timer will turn off the interior lights to save your battery. (System timer is for wipers, interior lights...etc)
I cannot count how many times with my last truck that the door would not close tight in -40f degree temperatures and the interior light drained the battery overnight.... NOT A PROBLEM WITH THE DAKOTA. (Although the door seals may still get so stiff that the door does not close tight.)
Glad I got the Lt. Driftwood. You can hardly see the normal road dust / dirt. Have hard water so I try to wash it in the rain to get the big stuff off, hose it down and let the rain finish it off.
Your engine 'stumble' with the 4.7 is the very same one discussed months ago in the other Dakota forums. Ill bet it 'stumbles' only when the truck is rolling and as soon as the road-speed hits 0.0MPH the idle smoothes out. It will improve as the engine 'loosens up' and the on-board computer continues to 'learn' your habits and other variables that affect the engine operation.
I found that I was able to 'speed up' the learning process by pushing the clutch and coasting down long hills. The idle would 'hunt' for awhile then stabilize as the learning process took over. I am now at over 8000 miles and my Dakota is much less prone to stalling than it was when new.