Gage W

Proceed at your own risk!

This has quite possibly been the worst and most stressful car-buying experience of my life, and I feel compelled to warn others so they don’t go through the same ordeal. I purchased a vehicle for £25,500 (paid in full by bank transfer), only for it to very quickly become apparent that the car had major underlying issues. A Mercedes specialist diagnosed serious engine problems, with repair costs estimated at around £15,000, as well as two cracked alloy wheels – all of this despite the car having just passed an MOT. This alone raises serious concerns about the checks carried out prior to sale. When I contacted the dealership, the experience went from bad to worse. Communication was shockingly poor. I was repeatedly promised phone calls that never came, endlessly chased for updates, and generally made to feel like an inconvenience rather than a customer who had just spent a substantial amount of money. Eric in the service department was particularly rude and unhelpful, showing little interest in resolving the situation or treating me with even basic courtesy. The warranty they tried to sell me was effectively useless, covering labour rates of only £60 per hour, which is completely unrealistic for a vehicle of this type and value—especially when specialist work is required. This was never made clear in a meaningful way at point of sale. Despite providing an independent specialist diagnosis, the dealership went into complete denial about the faults. I was told that because I paid in cash, they “couldn’t just refund me” and that they would need to inspect the car themselves, which could take weeks just to get workshop space, followed by another week to process a refund after diagnosis. This felt like nothing more than delay tactics. They were extremely quick to take my £25,500, yet suddenly very reluctant when it came to discussing returning the money for a car that clearly was not of satisfactory quality. After-sales care is non-existent. Once they have your money, you are very much on your own. I would strongly advise anyone considering buying from this dealership to think very carefully and look elsewhere. This experience has caused unnecessary stress, wasted time, and serious concern over consumer rights and vehicle standards.