Starting to hate dealership - Focaljet

**G1-Focus** · 04-03-2001, 08:26 PM

Let's see now...

2001 sedan has 1655 miles on it and is almost 3 months old.

Have a "popping" noise in suspension/steering sometimes when I turn only to the right and after the suspension has compressed from driving normally.

Brought car in to dealer and they:
1) Changed the oil and filter
2) Rotated the tires
3) Could not find a noise

When I got home I discovered:
1) They over-filled the crankcase so I drained out 1/2 a quart. The owner's manual calls for 4.25 US quarts with the filter changed and the receipt said they put in 5 quarts.
2) They nicked two of the wheels and one of the centercaps was ready to fall off.

I took my dad with me for a ride and he once again heard the "non-existent" noise in the suspension/steering.

I guess I have to take time out from work so one of the two mechanics that took a ride in my car and heard nothing can, if I'm lucky, hear the noise.

I really am starting to hate their service department even more. Oh and I worked for an independent repair shop several years ago for about 8 years doing just about everything...

**FocusZTec** · 04-03-2001, 09:13 PM

your starting to hate your dealership mine Absolutely stinks!! the worst customer service i ever experienced it took them over 3 weeks to fix a computer chip and do my recalls!

------------------
00" 5-Speed Infra Red ZX3
Mods:
Xenon Kit/Custom mesh grills painted white/ New Edge Perfomance Clear SideMarkers
SCA 2.5 B&G Springs
Team Dynamics 17' Monzas With Yokohoma Paradas 205/45/17ZR
FocusSport Wire plugs, Custom Headlights
Tenzo R Exhaust, Neon Light Painted mirrors back,and side moldings.
AOL S/N - AndreDZ69

**MegzFocus** · 04-04-2001, 03:40 PM

G1- I dont know where in CT you are but we've had good experiences with Keating ford in Stratford/Bridgeport (on the line) and I bought mine from Park City Ford in Feb and I'm going for my first oil change Sat (already have 3400 miles on it!) and the guy on the phone was super friendly and answered a lot of my questions, may be worth a slight drive to get good service! Ive also heard Mantillo (sp?) ford in Danbury is good and my boss loves the people at Stamford Ford (dont know the name) Greenwich Ford (name?) is on my block and I have heard good things about them too........hope some of this info helps!

**Titan_Zx3** · 04-05-2001, 10:43 AM

My dealership's service realy depends on the service rep that you get (at least that's what i think). anyways, I took my car in the first time(2 weeks ago) to get my heater vent fixed. At the time my car was about 2 and half months old and had about 1400 miles. the service was great and fast. But the second time,yesterday, was horrible. I bought it in at 9am and the rep that helped me out was doubtfull in th problem i had. I said that the brakes sweaked and it seem like he didn't believe me. But he still did it and he said it would be done that day about 5pm. But when it wass 6, it still was not done and i was told it would be done at 7:30. So 8 o'clock rolled around and still no call, so i calld them and th service department was closed. Then I waited till this morning and called them at 8 and it was finally done. I was pissed but I'm not the type that chews a person out. I was just lucky that I didn't have to work yesterday.

------------------
'01 ZX3 | Silver
2 12" Diamond Audio sub(not installed yet)
Powered by MTX amp

**G1-Focus** · 04-05-2001, 05:01 PM

I haven't chewed anyone out and don't intend to. I have found that keeping a level head the first and second times really works.

I actually called my salesman who has been helpful in the past. I got a message call-back from him and will wait until tomorrow.

Let's see what happens.

BTW MegzFocus, I bought the car from Griffin Ford. I bought my Mustang from Stamford Motors in 1990 and was displeased with their service too. I expect a lot from service.

**MegzFocus** · 04-06-2001, 02:53 PM

try Park City Ford in Bridgeport I really like them so far, every time I call they will bend over backwards to answer my questions in a way I understand and are really nice. I don't remember who I spoke to the other day but I was on the phone with him for like 30 minutes discussing my alignment and getting advice about tire rotations and all that junk. Worth a try, I know that I had a bad experience at Curtiss Ryan Honda dealership in Shelton once and never went back but my parents live by their service department....

**MegzFocus** · 04-11-2001, 08:30 AM

G-1

Can you tell me about your issues with Griffin Ford? Due to some personal issues and not wanting to wait 2 weeks, I will have to bring my car there to get the adjustable seatbelts fixed tomorrow morning (I work almost across the street from them so its all about convenience at this point)

Just want to know what to keep my eyes open for! Thanks!

**G1-Focus** · 04-11-2001, 08:03 PM

Hi MegzFocus

I called my salesman about my suspension noise and wanted it looked at and nothing more. They scheduled me early for a service as well.

At the time I had 1600 miles on the car. I got a 5000 mile service that I did not want. Incidentally I paid for the 3000 mile service pack.

The mechanic overfilled the crankcase by 1/2 - 3/4 of a quart, which I drained myself. He took a noticable nick out of one of the wheels because they rotated the tires and I almost lost a center cap because it was improperly fitted.

I dropped the car off first thing in the morning and was told by 9:30am that day the car was serviced with no mention of the noise until I asked. They even sent two people out to take the car around the block twice.

I have been at a client for 14 weeks and have not had the luxury of taking adequate time out to deal with the service department directly and to take a ride with a mechanic.

Look, I don't really think that Griffin Ford is bad. I guess they were not in tune that day. But tell them that you want a quality job done and that's it.

Especially with the seatbelts because they have to take the interior mouldings out and they're made of plastic - they warp, distort and break and you don't want to find out later that a clip is broken off.

**MegzFocus** · 04-12-2001, 10:27 AM

Thanks G-1

unfortunatly I dont know cars that well, especially interior stuff... when I got there the seatbelts were locking (of course) but the manager came to look at it and told the guy to order new ones because it was a safety issue, I work across the street from Griffin so basically it was a convenience thing. I wish I could of gone to Park City because I really trust them and I didnt like the "customer service" aspect at Griffin, felt like part of a herd of cattle. but what can you do? If I get a survey I will give my input though.....I hope it all works out for both of us!

**MegzFocus** · 04-12-2001, 01:42 PM

The guys there were pretty rude, I had no clue how they worked so I parked on the street and went inside (at my dealer you pull up and they take over from there) so the guy told me I had to pull inside and looked at me like I was an idiot (never had to pull my car into a service garage before) then the guy checking it out was like they work fine, and I said listen, when I stopped suddenly it moved and thats not cool, so he said you can talk to the manager....yuck I hate being treated like I am stupid because I am a woman! I actually know a lot about cars, just not everything, and I am intelligent to boot!

I never go to Town Fair Tires anymore because I was literally harassed every time I went to one (even slapped on the ass and asked why my "husband" didnt bring the car in) and my friends had the same experiences.

G-1 are you going to the g2g?

**G1-Focus** · 04-13-2001, 12:58 AM

Hi Meg. I guess you dropped off the car today (4/12) or over the past few days.

None-the-less, how did they treat you when you dropped off the car and when you picked it up?

Also, if you have any car questions, post one for me. I will always try to reduce the answer to one that anyone can understand - I seem to forget that not everyone knows everything about cars, especially me.

**urpheuz** · 04-13-2001, 08:50 PM

I can tell you guys that I have taken my car about 10 to 15 times to get fixed for something and they been cool with me. As far as getting the job done the first time probaly I am kinda upset but they have replace every single part i have mention. mirrors, shocks, my recalls, brakes, etc.

Somehow I like my dealer.

P.S. By the way all the time I go to my dealership, let's say for a damn oil change, they give me a loaner car and then i dont put miles on my car.

------------------
Red Focus ZTS
stick shift, eyelids, painted mirrors, leather, moonroof, etc, etc, etc

**G1-Focus** · 04-14-2001, 09:51 PM

Hi MegzFocus.

I'm sorry to hear you were treated poorly.

I have to deal with them on Monday and incidentally I went there this past Thursday night. I got their master tech to go with me for a ride.

We drive no farther than 100 yards and bang! there's the noise. We both think that it may actually be the engine cradle mount which is at the back of the engine compartment.

He told me to bring it in on Monday and that they would give me a loaner car, no questions asked.

However, I do believe that the dealership, meaning several of the personnel there, are aware of the problem. I will not tolerate anything but the best in service and care and I will wreak havoc if necessary and not for fun either.

But, just so you know I did call service to make sure I had an appointment and the guy was less than happy/friendly.

Let's put it this way. I have it in writing that I complained about a noise and that they also performed a 5000 mile service way too early because they did it when the car had 1600 miles on it. Plus they installed a filter and 5 quarts of oil when the owner's manual specifically states that 4.25 quarts maximum is to be installed with a filter.

Shall I say that with this information I could nail them to the wall for providing not only less than adequate service, but incompetent service as well.

I say this because the mechanic that did the oil change was supposedly spoken to about overfilling the crankcase. Because of this I will NOT put up with any, and I mean any kind of retribution on the dealership's part: dings, dents, damage of any kind, inside, outside, under the car, etc, PERIOD.

I will keep you and everyone else interested up to date. Oh and I will be dropping the car off without speaking to anyone, because I have to go to work early every day. Let's see what happens this time.

[This message has been edited by G1-Focus (edited 04-14-2001).]

**MegzFocus** · 04-16-2001, 08:13 AM

G-1 good luck! I will watch for your car today (I can see the dealer out my office window)

I have to say I am glad your paying such close attention to all the details and getting documentation of everything! ....should have you check out my car when I get my seatbelts replaced! lol

I will keep my fingers crossed for you!

**G1-Focus** · 04-16-2001, 10:35 AM

Thanks Megz.

I dropped it off this morning around 7am. They did call me around 8:30am to ask me about the problem. The rep was polite and listened to me. The tech who took a ride should also be in by 9am to give them some input as well.

I also told them that I'm going away on business for a few days and to take their time. We'll see what happens.

How has your treatment been so far?

BTW, I won't be making it to the g2g@Great Adventure.

I will have some free time coming up in the not so distant future and could look at the car.

**MegzFocus** · 04-16-2001, 01:03 PM

I havnt heard from them yet, but they only ordered the parts (hopefully) on Thursday so I guess it will take some time, I will call back this Thursday. Im going out to lunch now, will see if I see your car outside (they don't have many Foci there....) What color/model is yours?

too bad you won't be there Saturday sounds like its gonna be fun

maybe next time...

Enjoy your business trip

**MegzFocus** · 04-23-2001, 11:50 AM

G1

Any update on your car? I saw a black one out back on the day you dropped it off and none since. I am bringing mine in tomorrow morning for the seatbelts....hope all is well

**MegzFocus** · 04-27-2001, 09:26 AM

Mark from Griffen just called

They ordered the wrong part!

Figures!

**G1-Focus** · 04-29-2001, 10:23 PM

Hi Megz, sorry I haven't written - very busy at work. I have a black SE Sedan w/sport pack (tail, driving lights) and a tan interior. I picked up the car on Friday and guess what, it's not fixed.

The noise occurs less frequently and is a bit quieter, but.....

Here's the list of all the NEW parts they installed: control arm, hub assembly, anti-lock brake sensor, strut, spring, strut bearing plate. They even cut opening in the fender skirt for the strut assembly. Maybe they thought, that in addition to all the parts, that the skirt was also a factor.

Also, the mechanic, for some reason, removed the interior RH kick panel and a moulding on the side of the dash board. He almost broke a clip on the side moulding and lost a blank insert for the gas door release; the blank is for cars like mine that do not have the inside release mechanism.

My feeling is that the problem lies in the strut assembly, meaning the strut, spring and strut bearing plate. I guess I have to put in aftermarket struts to make the problem go away.

I'm calling them on Monday.

BTW, I see that you have logged a lot of time here on teamfocaljet. If you know of any tips about struts that you have seen, let me know because I need to find out as much as I can before I change to aftermarket parts.

**G1-Focus** · 04-30-2001, 01:22 AM

(The internet winked out on me last night, so I basically reposted what I said above)

Guess what. I got the car back and the noise is still there - it's less frequent and a bit more quiet, but it's still there.

So at 1922 miles and a little over 3 months old, the dealer replaced with NEW parts the following RH suspension components: control arm, hub assembly, anti-lock brake sensor, axle half-shaft, strut, spring, strut bearing plate.

They also modified the fender skirt by cutting the opening for the strut a bit wider and they removed two interior RH panels and damaged one and lost part of another.

Guess who's getting a call tomorrow.

[This message has been edited by G1-Focus (edited 04-30-2001).]

**MegzFocus** · 04-30-2001, 09:05 AM

Yup then that was your Focus I saw over there. I don't know anything about struts but you should do a search here on the board I am sure there is tons of info...these guys here seem to know their stuff, or try posting in some of the tech forums like suspension or wheels/tires/breaks, or even team tech.

Im still waiting for my seatbelt assembly... dummies ordered a new seatbelt, not the assembly....I said did anyone see a torn seatbelt (much less 2) in my car? geez louise lol

**G1-Focus** · 05-01-2001, 12:33 AM

Can't win can we. I called the salesman today and told him that I haven't had the chance to take the car for a ride.

I put 180 miles on it this weekend to go to a friend's house and to "break-in" the suspension so-to-speak. The dealer is going to freak when I tell them the bad news.

Ok, back to work.

**MegzFocus** · 05-01-2001, 08:42 AM

Going in tomorrow am to try to get the seatbelts once again....spoke to Mark on the phone he seems like he's one of the few there that has it together! ::crossing fingers:: hope this is the last time!

**G1-Focus** · 05-07-2001, 08:32 AM

Hi Megz. Keep a look out cause my baby is back at the dealer (5/7).

I dropped it off this morning so let's see how long it takes for them to call.

BTW, I ended up pulling the RF wheel this Saturday. The mechanic who worked on the car rotated the caliper once, thus twisting the brake hose, which caused it to not only give me a weak brake pedal, but it also cause the hose to rub against the hose bracket.

So, I fixed it myself and made everything nice again. I am getting annoyed.

I see you have been burning up the net. I'm at a lowly 20-some-odd postings, while you have hit the 300+ mark. Great work!

**MegzFocus** · 05-08-2001, 01:08 PM

Yup this here is a clueless Senior team member....bored at work!

I saw your car at the dealer today....parked outside, doesnt look like they are working hard on it!

They fixed the seatbelts last week, I picked it up took it to my friends house to leave for vacation and guess what.....the alarm doesnt work!

Got back yesterday and called them and they said "we didnt do anything to the alarm" and I said well it worked when I dropped it off and didnt work after picking it up so something happened to it in the mean time. They said well we will have to send it out and I said I wasnt paying and they got pissy.

So I brought it there this am and 2 of them (Mark and Paul) looked at it for about 20 minutes and couldnt figure anything out except that the interior light wasnt going off by itself either. A mechanic comes over says "its on Valet mode" Paul says I tried that but the other guy tried it and in 2 minutes I was driving off and Mark and Paul were like oh I guess someone was working on it and the alarm went off and they put it in valet mode (Duh shouldnt they turn it off then?!?!)

I feel stupid too cuz I dont know about the valet mode and all that but HELLO did we have to go through all this???

Your car will need a washing when they are done it looks like its got pollen all over it...poor thing! Might want to call and get an update on how well its sitting in the parking lot!

04-03-2001, 08:26 PM	#1
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Starting to hate dealership Let's see now... 2001 sedan has 1655 miles on it and is almost 3 months old. Have a "popping" noise in suspension/steering sometimes when I turn only to the right and after the suspension has compressed from driving normally. Brought car in to dealer and they: 1) Changed the oil and filter 2) Rotated the tires 3) Could not find a noise When I got home I discovered: 1) They over-filled the crankcase so I drained out 1/2 a quart. The owner's manual calls for 4.25 US quarts with the filter changed and the receipt said they put in 5 quarts. 2) They nicked two of the wheels and one of the centercaps was ready to fall off. I took my dad with me for a ride and he once again heard the "non-existent" noise in the suspension/steering. I guess I have to take time out from work so one of the two mechanics that took a ride in my car and heard nothing can, if I'm lucky, hear the noise. I really am starting to hate their service department even more. Oh and I worked for an independent repair shop several years ago for about 8 years doing just about everything...

04-03-2001, 09:13 PM	#2
FocusZTec Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Sep 2000 Location: Marlboro, Massachusetts Posts: 3,707	Re: Starting to hate dealership your starting to hate your dealership mine Absolutely stinks!! the worst customer service i ever experienced it took them over 3 weeks to fix a computer chip and do my recalls! ------------------ 00" 5-Speed Infra Red ZX3 Mods: Xenon Kit/Custom mesh grills painted white/ New Edge Perfomance Clear SideMarkers SCA 2.5 B&G Springs Team Dynamics 17' Monzas With Yokohoma Paradas 205/45/17ZR FocusSport Wire plugs, Custom Headlights Tenzo R Exhaust, Neon Light Painted mirrors back,and side moldings. AOL S/N - AndreDZ69

04-04-2001, 03:40 PM	#3
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership G1- I dont know where in CT you are but we've had good experiences with Keating ford in Stratford/Bridgeport (on the line) and I bought mine from Park City Ford in Feb and I'm going for my first oil change Sat (already have 3400 miles on it!) and the guy on the phone was super friendly and answered a lot of my questions, may be worth a slight drive to get good service! Ive also heard Mantillo (sp?) ford in Danbury is good and my boss loves the people at Stamford Ford (dont know the name) Greenwich Ford (name?) is on my block and I have heard good things about them too........hope some of this info helps!

04-05-2001, 10:43 AM	#4
Titan_Zx3 TEAM Member Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA Posts: 511	Re: Starting to hate dealership My dealership's service realy depends on the service rep that you get (at least that's what i think). anyways, I took my car in the first time(2 weeks ago) to get my heater vent fixed. At the time my car was about 2 and half months old and had about 1400 miles. the service was great and fast. But the second time,yesterday, was horrible. I bought it in at 9am and the rep that helped me out was doubtfull in th problem i had. I said that the brakes sweaked and it seem like he didn't believe me. But he still did it and he said it would be done that day about 5pm. But when it wass 6, it still was not done and i was told it would be done at 7:30. So 8 o'clock rolled around and still no call, so i calld them and th service department was closed. Then I waited till this morning and called them at 8 and it was finally done. I was pissed but I'm not the type that chews a person out. I was just lucky that I didn't have to work yesterday. ------------------ '01 ZX3 \| Silver 2 12" Diamond Audio sub(not installed yet) Powered by MTX amp

04-05-2001, 05:01 PM	#5
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership I haven't chewed anyone out and don't intend to. I have found that keeping a level head the first and second times really works. I actually called my salesman who has been helpful in the past. I got a message call-back from him and will wait until tomorrow. Let's see what happens. BTW MegzFocus, I bought the car from Griffin Ford. I bought my Mustang from Stamford Motors in 1990 and was displeased with their service too. I expect a lot from service.

04-06-2001, 02:53 PM	#6
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership try Park City Ford in Bridgeport I really like them so far, every time I call they will bend over backwards to answer my questions in a way I understand and are really nice. I don't remember who I spoke to the other day but I was on the phone with him for like 30 minutes discussing my alignment and getting advice about tire rotations and all that junk. Worth a try, I know that I had a bad experience at Curtiss Ryan Honda dealership in Shelton once and never went back but my parents live by their service department....

04-11-2001, 08:30 AM	#7
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership G-1 Can you tell me about your issues with Griffin Ford? Due to some personal issues and not wanting to wait 2 weeks, I will have to bring my car there to get the adjustable seatbelts fixed tomorrow morning (I work almost across the street from them so its all about convenience at this point) Just want to know what to keep my eyes open for! Thanks!

04-11-2001, 08:03 PM	#8
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Hi MegzFocus I called my salesman about my suspension noise and wanted it looked at and nothing more. They scheduled me early for a service as well. At the time I had 1600 miles on the car. I got a 5000 mile service that I did not want. Incidentally I paid for the 3000 mile service pack. The mechanic overfilled the crankcase by 1/2 - 3/4 of a quart, which I drained myself. He took a noticable nick out of one of the wheels because they rotated the tires and I almost lost a center cap because it was improperly fitted. I dropped the car off first thing in the morning and was told by 9:30am that day the car was serviced with no mention of the noise until I asked. They even sent two people out to take the car around the block twice. I have been at a client for 14 weeks and have not had the luxury of taking adequate time out to deal with the service department directly and to take a ride with a mechanic. Look, I don't really think that Griffin Ford is bad. I guess they were not in tune that day. But tell them that you want a quality job done and that's it. Especially with the seatbelts because they have to take the interior mouldings out and they're made of plastic - they warp, distort and break and you don't want to find out later that a clip is broken off.

04-12-2001, 10:27 AM	#9
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership Thanks G-1 unfortunatly I dont know cars that well, especially interior stuff... when I got there the seatbelts were locking (of course) but the manager came to look at it and told the guy to order new ones because it was a safety issue, I work across the street from Griffin so basically it was a convenience thing. I wish I could of gone to Park City because I really trust them and I didnt like the "customer service" aspect at Griffin, felt like part of a herd of cattle. but what can you do? If I get a survey I will give my input though.....I hope it all works out for both of us!

04-12-2001, 01:42 PM	#10
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership The guys there were pretty rude, I had no clue how they worked so I parked on the street and went inside (at my dealer you pull up and they take over from there) so the guy told me I had to pull inside and looked at me like I was an idiot (never had to pull my car into a service garage before) then the guy checking it out was like they work fine, and I said listen, when I stopped suddenly it moved and thats not cool, so he said you can talk to the manager....yuck I hate being treated like I am stupid because I am a woman! I actually know a lot about cars, just not everything, and I am intelligent to boot! I never go to Town Fair Tires anymore because I was literally harassed every time I went to one (even slapped on the ass and asked why my "husband" didnt bring the car in) and my friends had the same experiences. G-1 are you going to the g2g?

04-13-2001, 12:58 AM	#11
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Hi Meg. I guess you dropped off the car today (4/12) or over the past few days. None-the-less, how did they treat you when you dropped off the car and when you picked it up? Also, if you have any car questions, post one for me. I will always try to reduce the answer to one that anyone can understand - I seem to forget that not everyone knows everything about cars, especially me.

04-13-2001, 08:50 PM	#12
urpheuz TEAM Member Join Date: Sep 2000 Location: near to DC Posts: 502	Re: Starting to hate dealership I can tell you guys that I have taken my car about 10 to 15 times to get fixed for something and they been cool with me. As far as getting the job done the first time probaly I am kinda upset but they have replace every single part i have mention. mirrors, shocks, my recalls, brakes, etc. Somehow I like my dealer. P.S. By the way all the time I go to my dealership, let's say for a damn oil change, they give me a loaner car and then i dont put miles on my car. ------------------ Red Focus ZTS stick shift, eyelids, painted mirrors, leather, moonroof, etc, etc, etc

04-14-2001, 09:51 PM	#13
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Hi MegzFocus. I'm sorry to hear you were treated poorly. I have to deal with them on Monday and incidentally I went there this past Thursday night. I got their master tech to go with me for a ride. We drive no farther than 100 yards and bang! there's the noise. We both think that it may actually be the engine cradle mount which is at the back of the engine compartment. He told me to bring it in on Monday and that they would give me a loaner car, no questions asked. However, I do believe that the dealership, meaning several of the personnel there, are aware of the problem. I will not tolerate anything but the best in service and care and I will wreak havoc if necessary and not for fun either. But, just so you know I did call service to make sure I had an appointment and the guy was less than happy/friendly. Let's put it this way. I have it in writing that I complained about a noise and that they also performed a 5000 mile service way too early because they did it when the car had 1600 miles on it. Plus they installed a filter and 5 quarts of oil when the owner's manual specifically states that 4.25 quarts maximum is to be installed with a filter. Shall I say that with this information I could nail them to the wall for providing not only less than adequate service, but incompetent service as well. I say this because the mechanic that did the oil change was supposedly spoken to about overfilling the crankcase. Because of this I will NOT put up with any, and I mean any kind of retribution on the dealership's part: dings, dents, damage of any kind, inside, outside, under the car, etc, PERIOD. I will keep you and everyone else interested up to date. Oh and I will be dropping the car off without speaking to anyone, because I have to go to work early every day. Let's see what happens this time. [This message has been edited by G1-Focus (edited 04-14-2001).]

04-16-2001, 08:13 AM	#14
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership G-1 good luck! I will watch for your car today (I can see the dealer out my office window) I have to say I am glad your paying such close attention to all the details and getting documentation of everything! ....should have you check out my car when I get my seatbelts replaced! lol I will keep my fingers crossed for you!

04-16-2001, 10:35 AM	#15
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Thanks Megz. I dropped it off this morning around 7am. They did call me around 8:30am to ask me about the problem. The rep was polite and listened to me. The tech who took a ride should also be in by 9am to give them some input as well. I also told them that I'm going away on business for a few days and to take their time. We'll see what happens. How has your treatment been so far? BTW, I won't be making it to the g2g@Great Adventure. I will have some free time coming up in the not so distant future and could look at the car.

04-16-2001, 01:03 PM	#16
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership I havnt heard from them yet, but they only ordered the parts (hopefully) on Thursday so I guess it will take some time, I will call back this Thursday. Im going out to lunch now, will see if I see your car outside (they don't have many Foci there....) What color/model is yours? too bad you won't be there Saturday sounds like its gonna be fun maybe next time... Enjoy your business trip

04-23-2001, 11:50 AM	#17
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership G1 Any update on your car? I saw a black one out back on the day you dropped it off and none since. I am bringing mine in tomorrow morning for the seatbelts....hope all is well

04-27-2001, 09:26 AM	#18
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership Mark from Griffen just called They ordered the wrong part! Figures!

04-29-2001, 10:23 PM	#19
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Hi Megz, sorry I haven't written - very busy at work. I have a black SE Sedan w/sport pack (tail, driving lights) and a tan interior. I picked up the car on Friday and guess what, it's not fixed. The noise occurs less frequently and is a bit quieter, but..... Here's the list of all the NEW parts they installed: control arm, hub assembly, anti-lock brake sensor, strut, spring, strut bearing plate. They even cut opening in the fender skirt for the strut assembly. Maybe they thought, that in addition to all the parts, that the skirt was also a factor. Also, the mechanic, for some reason, removed the interior RH kick panel and a moulding on the side of the dash board. He almost broke a clip on the side moulding and lost a blank insert for the gas door release; the blank is for cars like mine that do not have the inside release mechanism. My feeling is that the problem lies in the strut assembly, meaning the strut, spring and strut bearing plate. I guess I have to put in aftermarket struts to make the problem go away. I'm calling them on Monday. BTW, I see that you have logged a lot of time here on teamfocaljet. If you know of any tips about struts that you have seen, let me know because I need to find out as much as I can before I change to aftermarket parts.

04-30-2001, 01:22 AM	#20
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership (The internet winked out on me last night, so I basically reposted what I said above) Guess what. I got the car back and the noise is still there - it's less frequent and a bit more quiet, but it's still there. So at 1922 miles and a little over 3 months old, the dealer replaced with NEW parts the following RH suspension components: control arm, hub assembly, anti-lock brake sensor, axle half-shaft, strut, spring, strut bearing plate. They also modified the fender skirt by cutting the opening for the strut a bit wider and they removed two interior RH panels and damaged one and lost part of another. Guess who's getting a call tomorrow. [This message has been edited by G1-Focus (edited 04-30-2001).]

04-30-2001, 09:05 AM	#21
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership Yup then that was your Focus I saw over there. I don't know anything about struts but you should do a search here on the board I am sure there is tons of info...these guys here seem to know their stuff, or try posting in some of the tech forums like suspension or wheels/tires/breaks, or even team tech. Im still waiting for my seatbelt assembly... dummies ordered a new seatbelt, not the assembly....I said did anyone see a torn seatbelt (much less 2) in my car? geez louise lol

05-01-2001, 12:33 AM	#22
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Can't win can we. I called the salesman today and told him that I haven't had the chance to take the car for a ride. I put 180 miles on it this weekend to go to a friend's house and to "break-in" the suspension so-to-speak. The dealer is going to freak when I tell them the bad news. Ok, back to work.

05-01-2001, 08:42 AM	#23
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership Going in tomorrow am to try to get the seatbelts once again....spoke to Mark on the phone he seems like he's one of the few there that has it together! ::crossing fingers:: hope this is the last time!

05-07-2001, 08:32 AM	#24
G1-Focus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Greenwich, CT Posts: 1,503	Re: Starting to hate dealership Hi Megz. Keep a look out cause my baby is back at the dealer (5/7). I dropped it off this morning so let's see how long it takes for them to call. BTW, I ended up pulling the RF wheel this Saturday. The mechanic who worked on the car rotated the caliper once, thus twisting the brake hose, which caused it to not only give me a weak brake pedal, but it also cause the hose to rub against the hose bracket. So, I fixed it myself and made everything nice again. I am getting annoyed. I see you have been burning up the net. I'm at a lowly 20-some-odd postings, while you have hit the 300+ mark. Great work!

05-08-2001, 01:08 PM	#25
MegzFocus Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Shelton, CT Posts: 1,944	Re: Starting to hate dealership Yup this here is a clueless Senior team member....bored at work! I saw your car at the dealer today....parked outside, doesnt look like they are working hard on it! They fixed the seatbelts last week, I picked it up took it to my friends house to leave for vacation and guess what.....the alarm doesnt work! Got back yesterday and called them and they said "we didnt do anything to the alarm" and I said well it worked when I dropped it off and didnt work after picking it up so something happened to it in the mean time. They said well we will have to send it out and I said I wasnt paying and they got pissy. So I brought it there this am and 2 of them (Mark and Paul) looked at it for about 20 minutes and couldnt figure anything out except that the interior light wasnt going off by itself either. A mechanic comes over says "its on Valet mode" Paul says I tried that but the other guy tried it and in 2 minutes I was driving off and Mark and Paul were like oh I guess someone was working on it and the alarm went off and they put it in valet mode (Duh shouldnt they turn it off then?!?!) I feel stupid too cuz I dont know about the valet mode and all that but HELLO did we have to go through all this??? Your car will need a washing when they are done it looks like its got pollen all over it...poor thing! Might want to call and get an update on how well its sitting in the parking lot!