JB
Jeremiah Benfield
4 days ago
To start I want to say, the sales associate who worked with me and finance manager were very friendly and helpful, however start to finish this was an odd, and unhelpful experience. The day I went in looking for my 2013 Lexus gs350 I was very excited and happy to have found one in such good condition, however I had purchased a used powertrain warranty with it (first mistake) and had been told by the sales associate it had an aftermarket muffler, and I believed him, (second mistake) partially because it apparently belonged to a former employee. Come to find out later as my exhaust pipe was hanging off down the highway, it was a shoddy delete job. Luckily they covered the hanger, but at a separate shop, who’s associates did not seem too happy to help, and seemingly thought I was lying until I called them directly again about it and had them confirm directly. Thankfully i haven’t had another exhaust issue, but I paid for a diagnostic a couple months later, in regards to a steering issue and sound that was very slight and affecting cornering, I had tried twice to have it aligned and it fell back to as before quickly again each time, but when I brought it in The service advisor after a couple hours, stated that it was a cricket noise and very slight, however felt it was worth quoting replacement of the entire control arm set top and bottom as well as shocks and springs totaling well over $2500. Come to find out my bushings just needed replacement, ordered the oem gsf parts as a slight upgrade as well, since they’re about the same price if not cheaper, and lots of owners have success with them, for $70. I replaced them myself in about 1-2 hours got an alignment, and it drives better than when I bought it. Just out of curiosity I did check the warranty details and it does list steering bushings and fittings as included, which they likely hadn’t even checked. I decided at that point I was done with the warranty and service dept there, so I called about 2-3 months ago now to have my warranty cancelled, the person I spoke to on the phone took all of my details and said that I should receive it within 3-5 weeks, 2 months later seeing nothing yet, I called today and they never put in the request! The manager I spoke to this time immediately gave me a full amount I would get back, and even the method which it would be returned, which the manager before did not.
Moral of the story, go to a local mechanic not a dealership, used warranty is totally useless, and make sure to have your vehicle inspected thoroughly before purchasing with a 3rd party outside of the Bristol area, as they apparently do have dealings with local mechanics and shops, which may not always be a good thing for honesty.
Leaving 3 stars for the fact that I do love the car now that it’s been taken care of, and they didn’t force me to pay for something I was lied to about.
For the first time in my life I can leave a 5 star review for a car purchase, and I have Tommy Humer to thank for that. Before heading down to the dealership, I spent countless hours researching the vehicle I wanted, and how to get a good deal. I mentally prepared myself to deal with the typical car salesman tactics. This time, I wasn't going to get burnt and came equipped with the knowledge and fighting spirit I needed to win the battle. After arriving, I was on edge. I was READY! Then entered Tommy, and it didn't take long for me to realize I didn't need to haggle. He was very genuine and great to work with. He has an easygoing personality and is super friendly. I got the car I wanted, and at a price I couldn't complain about. He was super transparent during the entire process and made sure to explain everything. He showed me the math, and for once it made sense. There wasn't anything hidden and the numbers added up. I can't speak for the other salespeople at Toyota of Bristol, but I could only hope they are all like Tommy. I would definitely buy another car from him. I can get into my car and truly enjoy it knowing Tommy made it happen. In the past, I have purchased cars from other dealerships where I was burnt and every time I got into them, I thought about the negative sales experience. It ruined the enjoyment. Not this time! Thanks again Tommy for everything!