| raddray |
I am about to get an Acura MDX. I currently drive a Lexus GS300 and have been happy with the quality of service I have been receiving from Lexus. I was planning on getting the new GX470 coming out in 2003 but I can't wait for it anymore.
Lexus offers a free loaner car anytime the car is brought in for service as long as the appointment is scheduled and a car is available. Does Acura offer this? |
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| Warzau |
| The dealer I am working with said when you bring in you car you get a loaner pending availabilty of cars when my car (when I get it) is serviced. |
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| MDXtrous |
| Acura Total Luxury Care is supposed to guarantee a loaner car. |
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| JTM |
| Yuppie, my dealer told me I will get a loaner car whenever I have my car in service for more than 30 minutes. |
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| Loose Cannon |
I believe, and I could be wrong, that the loaner is available only with "scheduled" maintenance.
Tim, please opine. |
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| Neo |
I also have a Lexus and have always gotten a Lexus for a loaner car. Several years ago, when I had an Integra, I never got an Acura for a loaner. I always seem to get some cheapo car from a rental place affiliated with the dealer.
Now, this was several years ago so hopefully things have changed. I only picked up my X in December so no maintainance yet. Hopefully things have changed since then. |
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| Warzau |
quote:
Originally posted by Loose Cannon
I believe, and I could be wrong, that the loaner is available only with "scheduled" maintenance.
Tim, please opine.
What is considered scheduled maintenance, I would assume anytime you bring in your car you would get one. Scheduled yes, but if its not scheduled, like a major repair thats when its needed the most. |
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| krammer |
I was supposed to get a loaner car today from the dealer, when I had my MDX in for an oil change (and a few other little things), but they were out of them. They did set me up with a car from Enterprise. I forgot how bad car rental agencies are! All they had were Chevy Metros, but I could upgrade. So I upgraded for $10 out of pocket. Then the guy flat out tells me that my insurance does not cover this car. Excuse me jack-off, but how the hell do you know what my insurance covers or not. I know there is going to be extra charges on my credit card. I'll be checking the statement closely for sure. The dealer later apologized and promised to get me one of their loaner cars next time.
The upgrade I did was to a Montero. I can't believe Mitsubishi charges over $30k for these. It is nowhere close to the MDX. I was glad to get back in mine by the end of the day. I'll post more in the comparisons forum. |
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| tjwid |
| I am interested to hear from folks in SF Bay Area. For Stevens Creek Acura, you can request, but I don't think they guarantee you'll get one. How about other dealers? |
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| megabuck2 |
tjwid,
Acura of Concord, too, can request but nothing is guaranteed.
But they do have 3 or 4 3.2Tls as courtesy car (the car has a big letters on the back window stating "Acura of Concord - Coutesy Car". And if they don't have them on the lot, I am sure they will arrange "something" from a rental agency.
i wish I could give you a definite answer but that was the answer i got from Acura of Concord...
Mike |
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| Neo |
| So I guess Acura still do not stock enough loaners and farm out to rental agencies. It would not be so bad if they give you a somewhat comparable loaner, but MDX to Metro? Come on. |
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| TheWorm |
You gotta get there early for the TLs. They'll arrange for an Enterprise loaner if they're out of their own.
First trip there, the lady in front of me with her first-gen rusted-out, dented, bondo'd beater Integra got a brand new TL, sans advertising banners. I ended up w/a barebones Tercel via Enterprise that actually had crank windows (hadn't seen those since my '70 Chevelle!) In all fairness, she was paying for a ton of work ($2k - but why?) -- and mine was a $25 oil change and warranty items. Then again, an MDX for a crank-windowed Tercel? @ Lexus I always get an ES or RX...nice...
Second time I ended up with a Chevy Truck. Wasn't too bad and I took the opportunity to clean the garage and haul garbage :)
If you moan enough on the drive from the dealer to the Enterpise trailer they sometimes will upgrade you gratis. |
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| megabuck2 |
I guess if you had your acura in for service around 3rd week of Feb at Concord, I took one of the TLs down to Los Angeles... :D
But I counted at least 3 of the loaner cars parked in front of the service office.
I agree that if we give our MDX for service and or warranty, we should get something comparable....but I have a feeling that the amount of fee dealer charge for service will go up. I'd rather get a Tercel than fork over more money on service to finance some other guys loaner car.
like anything in this world, there is no FREE lunch.....
Mike |
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| ardvarkus |
Yeah, I have a Q45 and NEVER got a Q45 as a 'service loaner'... G20/J30s- once an I30...
With Acura, I *believe* it varies with dealers.
Acura Corporate will GUARANTEE a vehicle with ANY warranty work. You may get a rental, but they'll cover the cost.
WIth just service work (ie Stuff you pay for) it is less clear. It will be based on the dealer, their stock of loaners, and how much they are soaking you for...
My understanding is that the policy will vary with dealership and with your specific visit.
I jusy got a RSX... same as a metro, better radio...
Ard
PS well, maybe not *exactly* the same as a metro :) |
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| tvfromhouston |
I had my MDX in for a checkup and the dealer gave me an RL for a day, however, they couldnt find the parts so they let me drive it for the whole weekend until the part came in. Thats pretty sweet.
I really was not impressed with the RL. I think my LS400 is a better car. Hopefully the new RLs will be better. |
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| ardvarkus |
Hey TV-
I think we can do something about your "body mold"...
:D
Ard |
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| JTM |
quote:
Originally posted by ardvarkus
__________________
'01 Mesa Beige Touring, Cargo Cover, Hitch and coolers, Separation net, luggage net, mud flaps, wheel locks, tool kit, spare fuses, old food wrappers, empty coke can, crayons from the kids, broken toy makeup kit, paper towels, old receipts, insurance paperwork, registration..did I leave anything out?
Ard
ardvarkus
I believe you leave at least "dust & driver" out... :p :p |
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| bdespain |
| I talked to my service manager about loaner cars last time I was in, because he gave me a RSX and I really wanted to drive a CL since I am thinking about buying one. He told me that he didn't have any. That they lease their loaner cars from Acura at a discounted rate and then they can resale them at the end of the lease. So my dealer has RSXs and 2 MDXs. I took the RSX for the fun of it since it was just me for the day. |
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| ardvarkus |
JTM-
I just went out to the garage this AM and found a half of a Round Table personal pizza and half eaten crusts in a box under my son's sweatshirt on the floor. REALLY tick me off. Both kids are cleaning all three vehices this weekend. Inside AND Out!
Dad's on the warpath.... |
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| lausy |
| So when I finally get my MDX in for the weepy mirror and couple of other warranty issue repairs done, I should request a loaner car and would probably get one? |
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| dakster |
| My dealer gave me a civic, which was from enterprise... At least it had power windows/locks... I could've upgraded to a Chevy Trailblazer for $8/day... The dealer says everything more than an oil change gets a loaner for the day... |
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| 1SICKLEX |
Well this is one of the reasons Lexus customer sat. is #1. We are satisfied. Lex loaners have always been a Lex, my experience are ES/RX some with 2000 miles. I know some guys getting IS and LS loaners.
I went with a friend to Acura for warrientied work once and they asked him "can u drive a stick" he could not, I could, ended out with a Nissan Altima 5-speed manual (this was about 4 years ago). |
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| msu79gt82 |
We had no trouble getting a loaner the few times we needed one - a CL Type S.
www.houstonacura.com |
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| raddray |
Thanks for all your response..
I'm still debating the jump to Acura. I like Honda's cause they're gennerally reliable and the Honda Accord that I owned back in 95 was a very nice car for it's class and of course my S2000. However, when I sit in the Lexus, I feel like I'm in a luxury car. When I sit in the MDX, I feel like I'm sitting in my friends 1998 Honda Accord. :( I don't think Acura distinguishes it's Honda line enough other than by price. Some things I'm going to miss that really should be on all luxury cars...
Auto down and up windows(all of them)
One touch open and close Sunroof
Remote windows/sunroof open with wireless remote.
Auto on/off Headlights
I traded the 95 Accord for the 99 Lexus and not the Acura TL because they didn't offer a rear wheel drive semi performance sedan like the GS and I never regretted it. This car has been great for the past 3 years and I'm going to be sad when I turn it in after the lease ends. I was planning on purchasing the car at the end of the lease but a Ford Windstar rear ended me at a red light so hard that it crumpled the crumple zones and it was offset to the right just enough to bend the car to the right. The door seams on the right were a lot tighter then the driverside seams... :( She hit the car so hard, her airbags went off... I don't even think she hit the brakes...
HAHAHA!!! Just got a call while typing this...
MY MDX IS HERE!!! Guess I have no choice but go pick it up tomorrow... hahahah!!!! |
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| dmcconaghie |
We've had our TL since May of 1999 and have never had a problem getting a loaner when taking in for service that exceeds 30 minutes. We simply request at the time we make the appointment and have had no problem. Also, all of our loaners have been Acuras (either an older, very well cared for Legend or one of the newer Integras). From what I've been reading on the site, I'm feeling pretty lucky right about now.
Must say, this is one great site. I've learned so much just lurking around and reading about everyone's experiences, etc. Wasn't planning on doing much in terms of external additions, but after seeing some of the BSM and fender well molding...I'm beginning to waffle.
Thanks to all for the information and great attitudes. It is truly refreshing to be amongst a group of individuals who are so friendly, helpful and respectful of everone's differing tastes. Kudos to you all! |
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| dmcconaghie |
We've had our TL since May of 1999 and have never had a problem getting a loaner when taking in for service that exceeds 30 minutes. We simply request at the time we make the appointment and have had no problem. Also, all of our loaners have been Acuras (either an older, very well cared for Legend or one of the newer Integras). From what I've been reading on the site, I'm feeling pretty lucky right about now.
Must say, this is one great site. I've learned so much just lurking around and reading about everyone's experiences, etc. Wasn't planning on doing much in terms of external additions, but after seeing some of the BSM and fender well molding...I'm beginning to waffle.
Thanks to all for the information and great attitudes. It is truly refreshing to be amongst a group of individuals who are so friendly, helpful and respectful of everone's differing tastes. Kudos to you all! |
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| RTK |
| The dealer I get my MDX serviced at will not give me a loaner b/c I did not buy from them. They did however, drop me off at work. |
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| Neo |
RTK,
That's too bad. I've had my Lexus serviced at different locations and a loaner has never been a problem. We'll see how my Acura service experience will be in a few months. |
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| jst4fun |
Your not going to believe this, but not only did I get a loaner from my Acura dealer, it was a new MDX. I had called the dealer in advance and since the work was just minor warranty stuff I decided to wait two days for a loaner. Any loaner. Could not belive they were giving me an MDX. I ended up keeping it for 5 days since they had to order a part. People who know me and saw me driving it said "I thought you got a silver one" (loaner was white). Anyway, it was nice to have because I able to compare the driving experence with my own MDX.
This is my first post to acurmdx.org and I'm sure happy to have found a place that gives insight to MDX ownership. |
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| Danal Estes |
Prior to my purchase, Goodson Acura in Irving, TX said "Anytime your service is over 1 hour". They specifically stated this covers scheduled, emergency, on request, whatever, any service that runs over 1 hour. They have about 60 loaners, all Acuras of various flavors.
They've held good to this in my experience. In fact, last time, I drove an RSX for a day, went to pick up my MDX just as they closed and turned in the loaner. The MDX wasn't ready due to a part being unavailable (they did call before I drove over, I just missed the message), and darn I've already turned in the loaner...! The dealership concierge came up with another car (also an RSX) and basically just gave it to me w/no paperwork. The next day, they brought the MDX to me at work and picked up this second loaner.
True customer service, these guys at Goodson. |
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| ubik |
quote:
Originally posted by tvfromhouston
I had my MDX in for a checkup and the dealer gave me an RL for a day, however, they couldnt find the parts so they let me drive it for the whole weekend until the part came in. Thats pretty sweet.
I really was not impressed with the RL. I think my LS400 is a better car. Hopefully the new RLs will be better.
Just had my X serviced and got an RL as a loaner. Major disappointment! I thought it was an older model, but no, a brand new 2002! And I was considering one for The Wife...no way! The only 2 things over my X: tiltable headrest and telescopic steering column. |
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| msu79gt82 |
... over an RL if cost was NOT an option. In my opinion Acura is the market leader in providing value.
My TL-S may not be as great as a GS300, but then again it was a whole lot less money than the GS. Sure an LS430 is superior to the RL, but look at the price difference ($20K+). If and when Lexus introduces a larger (3rd seat option) RX300 it may be (dare I say it?) "better" than our beloved MDX; but I guarantee it will cost way more. A loaded to the hilt 2 seat RX300 costs more than my MDX; need I say more.
Acura's may not be the best cars on the road; but they are very good and provide a lot of value - you get a lot of car for the money. |
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| greg davis |
Hi,
I'm new to the list and I was scanning through the threads looking for information on the 03 MDX when I came across this post.
This touched a raw nerve with me.
I bought my GS-R new in 92 from the Acura dealership in Fayetteville Arkansas. At that time I got a loaner even for a 30 minute oil change. It was a sweet deal. I had just sold my 82 Prelude and upgraded to this sweet VTEC Integra and was getting the royal treatment.
Then I moved to central Arkansas. The only dealership for Acura's is Riverside Acura. They also own the Mercedes dealership. The first time I took my car in was for the 7500 mile service. I was disappointed to find out that I couldn't get a loaner. Instead they would take me to work in a big van with other customers who were dropping off their cars. What a load of crap.
If I had wanted that kind of treatment I would have bought a 4 wheel steer Prelude or an Accord Coupe. Then I could have been lumped in with the rest of the masses. It seems that the Little Rock dealership is only concerned about one thing and that is selling you the car. The service department manager at the time said that they couldn't provide loaner cars because of "insurance" reasons. What a load!
A couple of years ago I started looking for a SUV. I test drove just about everything in Little Rock except for the Mercedes. The last car I drove was the Lexus RX300. What was cool was that when I walked into Parker Lexus the salesman traded me car keys. They let me take the RX300 home for the night. My wife freaked out.
We both drove the vehicle and were impressed but it was just a little too small. When we went back to pick up my car it was really a no pressure deal. I now have tremendous respect for that dealership. They also provide loaners for their service customers. Now that's service!
I can't complain too much about Riverside's service department because they treat me fairly and repair my car in a reasonable amount of time, but their customer releations need to go a little further.
People buy Acura's for luxury and prestiege. Pulling up to work in a big van with 4 other people doesn't meet that image. If this dealership knew anything about customer service they would work their "insurance" problem out and start treating their customers with more respect.
Finally, I waited for 2 years for the MDX to come out and I'm really impressed with it. However, I'm seriously considering the Lexus and how I get treated this go around with shopping will tell if I buy the MDX or RX300.
I have to do something by July since I've got a new baby on the way and theres not enough room in a Integra and a Civic for two dogs, two adults and a infant.
Ok, I'm a moron. I apologize to Riverside Acura in Little Rock, AR. I called today (04/25/02) because I was going to the Lexus dealership to test drive one of their RX300's and wanted to make sure that I knew the exact loner car policy. To my surprise they now offer loaners on services other than oil changes!
The service manager was surprised that I didn't know this. I take back all that I said above. Thank you Riverside for finally meeting the competition! |
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| MDXtrous |
| Acura's Total Luxury Care entitles you to a loaner car. You may have to call in advance to reserve one, but dealers have to provide the service. |
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| MDXtrous |
You won't be dissapointed with the MDX as many will attest, especially with a family like yours. I think even your dogs will enjoy the "cavernous" space behind the second row seats.
I've been able to fit 12 suitcases (large and small of course) and still take 3 international travellers at the same time.
I've also been able to fit 8 adults in the MDX comfortably. If space and "utility" is of concern, you won't be disappointed. Two RX300 owner friends are already seriously considering switching after they saw my MDX.
Even if service (3 days in a year) may not top that of Lexus, you'll be extremely pleased the other 362 days. |
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| sgtglok |
quote:
Originally posted by RTK
The dealer I get my MDX serviced at will not give me a loaner b/c I did not buy from them. They did however, drop me off at work.
That's a low-grade dealership!!! I wouldn't trust them with my 'DX for a more serious job other than the oil change and even then I would check for oil spills! If your work is warranty-related (like fixing mirrors/thud/etc.), Acura Corp covers it, not the dealer. Bet, when they send in the bill to Ac. Co., they INCLUDE the costs of the loaner.
I have the similar problem - my local dealership is only 10 min. away from my home, but... they also service Dodge, Honda, Mazda, Ford. Nothing wrong with that, other than the quality of service! I got my 'DX from the dealership 60 miles away (I get free oil change for 4 years!) But, to put 120 miles just for an oil change is not worth the trouble. Another story's with anything else...
BTW, recently I was in MD on training. I needed oil change and found a dealership nearby, Rosenthal Acura. Went there in the morning without appoitment - they took me: changed oil, fixed both mirrors + thud (which even my 60-mile-away dealership failed to fix), and gave me a loaner. Integra. |
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| sgtglok |
| RTK, I noticed you live in LI. Just curious which dealership did you go to? |
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| remery |
| I've taken my MDX in 3 times to McGrath in Westmont, IL and got CL or TL loaners each time with no problem. For my 15K service I am taking it to Continental of Lisle who will manage to provide a loaner for me a week from this Saturday. I don't know what I will get since I have never had service there before. Since it will cost $100 less than McGrath, I could drive a Kia for the day and wouldn't complain. McGrath has about 10 Acuras that they use for loaners which may be why there service rates are higher. The loaners are typically 1997s or 98s with 45K to 50K miles on them but still in great shape. |
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| JerryL |
| I seem to have the best dealer around. The salesman comes to my place of business, drops off a loaner car and then takes my car in for service and brings it back at the end of the day. |
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| msu79gt82 |
greg davis mentions how well a Lexus dealer treated him. I had the opposite experience.
When we bought the MDX we also test drove the RX300. Whereas we had no trouble test driving the MDX (always alone and on several occasions including an extended one) the Lexus dealership insisted on tagging along and pushed a short trip down a designated route.
So in my personal experience Lexus was stingy and condescending whereas Acura was great. By the way the best treatment I've ever received on for a test drive was from Toyota with our RAV4 - he gave it to me for a day to check out. |
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| adg,DO |
I'm picking up my new MDX next week (hopefully) from Bedford Hills. I never even thought about the whole issue of loaner cars, but I will definately ask them about it.
I have two questions for all you experienced 'Xers:
1. I heard that the weeping mirrors have been corrected on the '02s. But what about the "thud" on the 02 MDX?
2. It seems like a lot of people are taking in their MDX for "warranty work." However, I didn't think that a vechicle with such a name or reputation would need all this work. One of the reasons I bought this car is due to a perceived notion of quality workmanship and reliability.
What are you guys getting fixed? Or are they just all oil changes?
Please reassure me, I think I'm getting a little nervous here. |
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| DaleB |
I am just taking delivery in a week, so I can't speak for seasoned owners. But from what I have seen on this board, many problems have simple solutions The number of serious problems I could maybe count on one hand.
Many problems like the weeping mirrors have been corrected under warranty for '01 owners, and is not a problem for '02 owners.
I believe the 'thud' is not as prevalent on '02s because of an apparent gas tank redesign. Plus the '02 has been made a bit quieter.
Serious problems, like a transmission failure, are not common and everyone is trying to offer suggestions, and obtain information.
For the 'tech minded' these are some of the more interesting topics, however MOST deal with owner's enjoyment of their X's, and all the things they want to buy in the way of accessories, bigger wheels, wood trim, side steps, etc. etc.
On the whole you are among major enthusiasts who are enjoying their purchase, and offering advice and observations, or simply expressing their pleasure! |
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| adg,DO |
Thank You DaleB
It's good to hear that these corrections have been made on the '02.
I wish you good luck on the delievery next week. My MDX is also expected next week and I am just antsy with anticipation. I think I even see visions of MDX in my sleep.
Hopefully, with some "quality time" under belt once my baby arrives, I will also be able to share some constructive and useful insights on the MDX.
Until then, I continue to enjoy this forum and learn from the experienced.
Thanks |
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| rliggayu |
| I just talked to Acura Total Luxury Care Rep and they told me that to get a loaner car it depends on the Car Dealer. So I called the nearest Acura Dealer in my area(Serramonte, Daly City) and they told me that they don't provide loaner car, oh well that's life. Cheap bastards. |
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| JerryL |
agd,DO:
For your information...the gas tank still has not been redesigned. It still makes hideous noises. The service people call it a "characteristic" of the MDX. I call it BS. Not at all acceptable in a $40K vehicle. |
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| srpbep |
My understanding:
I THOUGHT that a loaner was included under the "Acura Care Thingy" IF THE PROBLEM IS A WARRANTY ITEM.
I think that a loaner car for service work is up to the local dealer.
LOGIC QUIZ
How much would a dealer need to charge for an oil change in order to provide a customer with a loaner car if the dealer did not want to lose money?
I suspect that a $25 oil change would need to be $45 to supply "something basic", maybe $60+ to supply a TL.
How can we gripe about not getting a "FREE loaner" if the service is non-warranty? |
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| greg davis |
I guess this whole thread can be boiled down to each individual dealer has a wide range from which they can deviate.
Too bad, Acura should do some quality control and moderate post sales service to a point.
The great thing about McDonalds is that you know what the hamburger is going to taste like before you eat it. You can go to any McDonalds and you are going to get the same product.
Acura is not just selling cars they are also selling prestige and post sales service. I'm sure that these other dealerships that don't offer the same level of customer service don't sell as many cars. And I imagine that intelligent buyers who move to those areas from other dealers citys are very disappointed with their options. I know I was.
But it's still a Honda product and when you've driven one as long as I have you come to expect the reliability that the brand provides.
I've had my GS-R in the shop for regularly scheduled services plus two other times in 11 years to replace an alternator and a fuel injector sensor along with the air conditioner compressor.
I only have had the car towed in once 6 years ago when the alternator went out. Conversely my friends and family have all owned two or more cars in the time I've had my GS-R and while my GS-R still looks new and is fairly solid their cars are falling apart.
My wife told my Brother-in-Law yesterday that we were going to buy an MDX and he started trying to talk her out of it. Crazy thing is that he has owned 4 cars to my 1. I'm sure that he has spent well over the cost of 1 MDX on the 4 rattle traps that he's owned.
People just don't get it. |
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