I custom ordered a brand-new 2026 Ford Super Duty Platinum-Plus through Ford’s website in September 2025 and took delivery from Hoffman Ford of East Hartford in early December. This was a $112,000 flagship truck that also included a $5,000 dealer installed WARN winch package; entirely the responsibility of the dealership.
Roughly two months after delivery, I discovered a WARN “Contactor Box” protruding from the driver-side wheel well. After inspecting it further, I learned this is a critical electrical component of the winch system connected directly to the battery by several large-gauge power cables. The problem: Hoffman Ford never properly mounted or secured it.
The mounting bracket was only partially installed, and the Contactor Box itself was never fastened to the mounting plate behind the front bumper using the provided hardware. As a result, the box would periodically fall below the truck’s undercarriage, fully exposed to road debris, water, salt, rocks, and everything else encountered while driving.
It became immediately clear that the installation was unbelievably careless. The mechanics also failed to properly secure the electrical cables, leaving them hanging beneath the frame and rubbing against sharp metal edges. Over time, this creates an obvious risk of cable wear, damaged insulation, electrical arcing, short circuits, and potentially even an electrical fire.
There were additional fitment problems as well. The tow-hook covers on the front bumper were improperly cut and mounted incorrectly, causing them to partially detach during normal driving. I also found the synthetic winch rope routed directly against a sharp plastic edge that WARN installation guidance specifically says should be removed to prevent abrasion.
For a dealership delivering a six-figure flagship truck, this level of workmanship is unacceptable.
To make matters worse, the truck already had approximately 90 miles on the odometer when I took delivery — something I was very disappointed to see on a custom-ordered “new” vehicle.
I documented everything thoroughly with photos and videos and brought it directly to management. To the manager’s credit, he acknowledged how bad the work was and told me, “A 5-year-old could have done better.”
Their proposed solution was to pick up my truck, drive it 30+ miles back to the dealership, have the same installation team repair it, and then drive it another 30+ miles back to my house. Given the severe workmanship and safety concerns already demonstrated, I was understandably uncomfortable allowing the same technicians to redo the work without additional assurances.
I suggested alternative solutions, including having another Ford dealership perform the repairs properly or supplying me with the necessary parts and hardware so I could complete the work myself. After that, communication largely stopped.
If Hoffman Ford is willing to deliver a custom-ordered $112,000 truck in this condition, customers should seriously question the quality and safety of the service work being performed there.
EH
EndeSha Holland
May 11, 2026
I had a great experience visiting The Ford/Hoffman Dealership. My Sales consultant Gerald was very helpful. He listened to my concerns and was able to help me find the best vehicle to suit my needs. The application process was quick and straightforward. I am very happy with my new vehicle. Gerald did a courtesy follow up with me. He also gave me a sense of security that if any problems should arise, I could always reach out. I appreciate the service and friendly atmosphere. I will definitely do business with Ford/Hoffman in the future and I recommend this dealership as dependable.
DH
Dujean Hines
May 7, 2026
This place is officially under new management. They made me feel like a VIP customer. Prior management was less than favorable. Needless to say, they swiftly and thoroughly corrected all mishaps. I honestly was expecting to get the run around to fix my discrepancies. But to my surprise, everything was handled and I was treated with the upmost respect. When I’m spending multiple thousand on my vehicle. I tend to hold service to higher standards. This new management exceeded my expectations , while displaying a white glove service 💯
MR
Mark Robinson
May 3, 2026
My experience at Hoffman Ford could not have been better. When I arrived at the dealer, the car I had seen listed online was even better in person. The salesman, Richard, was very friendly and professional. After taking the car on a good test drive, I still was not 100% convinced. Then Richard suggest I take the car for an overnight test drive. Well, that did it and I agreed to purchase the car when I returned the next day. When I picked up the car, it was perfect and the transaction was effortless. I am very happy with both the car and the dealer experience.
ASK FOR JASON GRANT, he’s the BEST.
I had an amazing experience at Hoffman Ford. Start to finish. From when I first called, to when I drove off the lot in my new car.
Jackie (who was very nice) helped us with pairing us with a professional, experienced Sales Person - Jason Grant, who is phenomenal.
He was the furthest thing from your typical Sales person. He was personable, calm, he LISTENED to what we were looking for, and was NEVER pushy, a real family oriented man.
We found just what we were looking for, and Jason got us a great deal. Ask for him, you won’t regret it. He made himself available during the entire process, day & night, and was easy to talk to. I can’t thank Jason and his team enough. Thank you, Jason!!! We will be back for another vehicle