Passport Mini of Alexandria

Here is the story. You almost can’t make this stuff up. I contacted the dealership on Saturday 29NOV regarding the availability of a used 2021 Jaguar E-Pace that the You almost can’t make this stuff up. I contacted the dealership on Saturday 29NOV regarding the availability of a used 2021 Jaguar E-Pace that they had on their lot for over 50 days. They quickly replied back that it was available and sent me an out the door price when I requested it. I set up an appointment for the next business day, Monday 01DEC, at noon. I flew into the area and was heading towards the dealership with money in hand and full intentions of buying the car if it checked out when they called and informed me that there was a safety recall regarding the airbags on the vehicle (I was previously aware of when I researched the vehicle which did uncover a safety recall on that make and model, but it was not a “Do not drive” recall) and that I couldn’t test drive it and they couldn’t sell it. I asked if I could still take a look, they said yes. I arrived and looked at the vehicle, and they proceeded to tell me that it was against Virginia law for them to sell me the vehicle since it had a safety recall. They also informed me that the drivers seat adjustment wasn’t working and they were looking into getting the airbags and seat taken care of, after which they could sell the vehicle. Of course they didn’t know how long that would take but would get me an update either later that day or the next. This all came as a bit of a shock and frustrating to say the least. They didn’t know about this recall and seat issue and address it during the past 50+ days they had the vehicle? Or tell me about this when I initially inquired? That night I did some research and there is NO Virginia law preventing a dealership from selling a USED vehicle with a safety recall provided they inform the customer and the customer acknowledges in writing. There is, however, a federal law preventing the sale of NEW vehicles with safety recalls. In the morning, I took the liberty of contacting Jaguar directly with the VIN inquiring about the safety recall. Jaguar told me that the safety recall did not apply on that particular vehicle based on the VIN. I sent the salesman this information regarding the recall and the nonexistent law figuring perhaps they were confused and thought the federal law applied to all vehicles and not just new and while there was a recall notice on the make/model, never checked by VIN with Jaguar and just assumed it applied to that vehicle. Shortly after sending this information, I received a reply with an update stating that someone came in and put a deposit on the vehicle. Say what? I was just informed less than 24 hours ago that you couldn’t sell the vehicle due to “Virginia law” and the safety recalls. What is going on? I called the dealership and asked to speak to a manager and explained the situation. He was partially aware of what was going on as he knew which vehicle I was talking about without me mentioning. He said he would look into it and get back to me. Which, surprise surprise, he did not do. Basically, they refused to sell to me and concocted a rather bizarre story. It is unprofessional behavior and business practices like this that give people such negative options regarding car dealerships and why most would rather have dental work than visit one. In the end I’m flying back home instead of driving, time and money wasted. Thanks Mini of Alexandria, VA. More

Went to the dealership fully intent on buying a used vehicle that was offered. After going on a test drive and starting the process of purchasing the vehicle, the General Manager David approached us wit vehicle that was offered. After going on a test drive and starting the process of purchasing the vehicle, the General Manager David approached us with concerns regarding my fiancée's ID verification. For some reason, his Florida license wouldn't scan in their app software. He then insinuated that we were potentially trying to use a fake ID to purchase the vehicle. He also said that if myself and my fiancée were on the vehicle loan it would not be an issue because he would have a verified ID. We then applied for a loam together and were approved, but he still did not want us to go home with the vehicle until we could physically get the money to the dealership. When I went to get contact information of someone above him to file a complaint, he condescended me several times. Us both being military, me and my fiancée were both offended and embarrassed to be accused of being criminals in a showroom full of people. Would NOT recommend this dealership to anyone. Our sales rep Jose was excellent throughout the whole thing, however. I went back into the dealership to get owner contact info or info for anyone above the General Manager on site. David Hellmuth continued to belittle me and would not allow me to contact anyone other than him on this matter. I have never been so disrespected in my life by anyone. Especially not someone that I am trying to give my money to. More

My experience with Passport Mini of Alexandria was the absolute best. My salesman and finance lady, Vinnie and Paula were great. They made me feel like part of the team. Also the cashier at this location absolute best. My salesman and finance lady, Vinnie and Paula were great. They made me feel like part of the team. Also the cashier at this location was great, unfortunately I can’t remember her name but she was very sweet. I had a few issues but Vinnie and Paula made it so those issues were painless and easy to overlook. This a 5 star car buying experience. Please ask for Vinnie if you’re looking for a Mini in Alexandria. More