Since I live 280 miles away, I asked salesman, Joe, to check the car personally to make sure it was straight. A short time later, he called me to relate that everything was proper. ie: all paint matched, wheels were ok, body showed no irregularities. I asked about the "carfax" and he said 1 owner and no reported accidents. When I showed interest, he said that he had to disclose that there was previous frame damage. He went on to say that it could be as simple as a damaged front bumper replacement where bolts may have been removed from the frame. He said if the frame is changed (bolt removal), voila, frame damage. He said the damage must have been minimal due to the clean carfax.
Upon my arrival, I looked the vehicle over. I could see that the front fender had been repainted. Not perfect but close. I would think that if a layperson such as myself could see the difference, that an experienced salesperson would find it. Maybe Joe needs to visit the eye doctor. I took the car for a drive and it felt solid and decided to proceed. I knew that the internet price was only valid if I financed 80% of the sales price thru the dealership. (another way to make more $ from buyers). Yes, Tim (the F&I person ) tried to sell me an extended warranty and seemed a little put out when I refused. I then had to sign a release stating that if I sought other financing or payed off the loan within 6 month, that I would be slapped with a $500.00 lien. No sign paper, no get car. Or pay the $500 penalty up front.
Papers signed, they give me THE key. Just one. When asked for any others, Joe says that's all they got. (Replacement key is $21 plus $47.50 to program it.) No they didn't offer to get another one. Got the car home and noticed that it didn't have traction control as advertised. (A selling point.) Called Joe and he said he would have to check with Gen Mnger to see what could be done. NOTHING, zilch, nadda, not even a meaningless "Sorry." I was told that it was my own fault for not checking the car prior to purchase. (Thought Joe did that when I asked him to check it for me.) Also, they are covered because they have a disclaimer stating that they aren't responsible for listing errors. (No such disclaimer is shown on the Cars.com.listing.) I said to Joe, does that mean Van Horn can list a vehicle, make errors in the listing, intentionally or not, and they could hide behind the disclaimer?. Joe says "Pretty much." Another case of sell the car and say anything to make the deal. I do see their point tho, I'm 280 miles away, why should they do anything for me.
