My Review Of Charles Gabus Ford:
I very recently traded my 1998 Ford Ranger for a 2004 Ford Ranger from Charles Gabus Ford. I was referred to Wade Fessler by an ex Charles Gabus employee and must say I was glad I was. I have bought multiple vehicles but never from a "big" dealer. Wade had a very low pressure approach and although I could tell he was busy (I think he had at least one other potential buyer there at the same time I was there) he never made me feel rushed. I was not in a position where I HAD to trade but rather WANTED to upgrade so I went in with a trade number in mind and told myself I would walk away if I didn't get it. I did get attached to the truck I now own as it was exactly what I wanted, lower miles, and a local trade one owner with a squeaky clean AutoCheck Report. Despite the attachment, after the test drive and initial negotiations on Monday we were $500 apart and I was told that there was no room left. I wasn't particularly surprised by this, as I knew I was going in a little strong on my trade, but again it was a WANT not a NEED so as I promised myself I initially walked away.
Wade gave me a call after work on Tuesday and genuinely listened to my concerns regarding the finances, I once again gave him the magic number. I got a call back 10 minutes later telling to come come get my new truck. From that point it was seamless. Once again, Wade was very busy with another customer but made time to meet me when I arrived at the dealership and thank me for my business before going to close another deal.
It would have been really nice to save all the haggling that got us where I started out asking for anyway and drive the truck home a night earlier but that's just part of the game.
At this point I moved onto the finances. I had financing already lined up through my own bank and had no need to play the payment game with them so I can't attest to their financing procedures BUT I could not have enjoyed working with Brad Rodish more. Absolutely loved his laid back style, I think we spent more time BSing than we did doing business. As a matter of fact I almost got up without writing the check!
I know salespeople work on commission and I know it was Wade's job to sell me a truck, but I feel like he was able to truly put himself in my shoes and provide valuable advice. I now drive a truck I love and got it at a price that me (and my banker) are very satisfied with (even if it was A LOT of work to get there.)
The only thing I'm questioning slightly is the "Free Oil Changes for Life." Those were never mentioned throughout the process and they snuck "This Vehicle Does Not Get Free Oil Changes" on to the final purchase statement which I still kick myself for missing when I was signing the papers, I consider myself typically very thorough. I do not know if my truck did not qualify for the oil changes or if that was something that was taken out of the deal in order to get to my "magic number." I'm not upset, I would just appreciate an explanation.
Overall my experience was strong (although rather lengthy) and I will definitely allow Gabus the opportunity to earn my business again, but not without comparing all competition, I am a firm believer that one should never do that. Money talks and price sells, but I certainly wouldn't hesitate to set foot back on the Gabus lot.
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Thank you
Response From: Charles Gabus Ford
Added: 5/31/2013 5:18:59 PM
Thank you so much for this excellent and detailed review. We are very happy to hear that you ended up finding a vehicle you love at a price that everyone could agree on, although it took a little extra work on both sides. It is like you said though, "that is just part of the game." I will pass your kind words on to Wade, and commend him on a job well done. If there is anything else we can do to assist you, please don't hesitate to give us a call. Thanks again, and we look forward to your next visit.
Sincerely,
James Bintner – GM
jbintner@charlesgabus.com
515-270-5500