Dalton Tassinari

BUYER BEWARE The Situation: On October 19, 2024, I purchased a 2021 Jeep Gladiator (VIN: 1C6JJTBG4ML554926) from 704 Exotic Auto. Less than 30 days later, on the evening of November 13, 2024, I experi purchased a 2021 Jeep Gladiator (VIN: 1C6JJTBG4ML554926) from 704 Exotic Auto. Less than 30 days later, on the evening of November 13, 2024, I experienced a major mechanical failure while driving in Colonial Heights, VA, leaving me stranded on the side of the road. Upon further inspection, I discovered that the vehicle had been sold to me in an unsafe condition, with several critical components missing or improperly installed, which could have resulted in severe injury or death. A certified mechanic who inspected the vehicle determined that the rear differential was missing several bolts and that others were loose, likely due to improper torquing. This caused the differential fluid to leak out, leading to the complete failure of the differential gears, bearings, and the rear differential itself. As a result, the rear differential and drive shaft were seized, leaving the vehicle inoperable. Immediate Action and Response: After contacting Charles, the salesperson who sold me the vehicle at 704 Exotic Auto, on the evening of November 13, he expressed regret over the situation and assured me that he would escalate the matter to the General Manager, Dalton. I also personally contacted Dalton on the morning of November 14, explaining the situation and the inconvenience I was facing, including the cost of the tow, a rental vehicle, and the uncertainty surrounding the repair costs. Given that I had purchased the vehicle less than a month ago and that these issues were not disclosed at the time of sale, I expected the dealership to take full responsibility for the repair costs. Unsatisfactory Response from Management: However, on November 15, 2024, I received a disappointing call from Dalton (General Manager at 704 Exotic Auto), who informed me that the owner of 704 Exotic Auto (Gabriel), would not take any responsibility for the situation. He cited the vehicle’s “as-is” sale and the absence of an additional warranty as reasons for refusing to cover the repair costs. This response was not only unprofessional but also dismissive of the serious safety concerns surrounding the vehicle. It left me with no choice but to pursue further action. Request for Resolution: Given that the vehicle was sold to me in an unsafe condition—less than 30 days ago—with missing and improperly installed parts, I believe 704 Exotic Auto has a clear obligation to assume responsibility for the necessary repairs. The estimated cost for the required repairs, including the replacement of the rear differential assembly, is between $2,500 and $2,800. While I would prefer to resolve this matter amicably, the dealership's refusal to address the issue and leaves me with no choice but to escalate this matter. More

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The salesperson (Dan) was great! With that said, the experience stops there. The business office (Leslie in particular) is unorganized, rude and treated the buyer like trash once the With that said, the experience stops there. The business office (Leslie in particular) is unorganized, rude and treated the buyer like trash once the sale had been completed. Slower than frozen syrup in processing paperwork and then she made excuses and blamed the customer as to why things were not done. I’m still waiting on my tag months later! I’ve purchased dozens of vehicles in my lifetime and this has been by far the worst experience yet. I purchased my vehicle in February and it is now the middle of April and I still don’t have my tag. Received a text once again today asking for additional info. to process the paperwork. The business office person (Leslie) actually “argued” me down putting the blame on me as customer for incomplete paperwork and delay. When in fact they have a process that is inefficient and not customer friendly at all. Here’s a piece of advice. Get the information you need for the customer upfront from the customer instead of requesting it months later. It will be May when I receive a tag for a vehicle purchased in February. Good looking car, yes. Great sales people, yes. Excellent overall experience— ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! More

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