Principle Volkswagen of Grapevine

Hello, my name is Steve Alonzo. I previously wrote a review about my experience with Principle Volkswagen of Grapevine, but removed it because I continued to discover additional iss I previously wrote a review about my experience with Principle Volkswagen of Grapevine, but removed it because I continued to discover additional issues with the used 2024 VW GTI I purchased on October 1st, 2024. I am now posting an updated and complete review so that future customers can make an informed decision. This review is addressed to the employees involved in my sale: Zarina W., Noah Caballero, Shane House, Jane Forrest, and especially Mr. Dan Watkins. Below are the issues I experienced after purchasing this vehicle: 1. Missing Spare Key I was told by Zarina that the second spare key was inside the vehicle’s center console. This was not true. When I attempted to follow up, Zarina avoided the issue entirely. 2. Undisclosed Exhaust Modifications I was never informed that the vehicle had a muffler delete and resonator delete. I only discovered this after experiencing excessive cabin drone. A mechanic told me the car likely wouldn’t pass inspection — and he was right. A reputable inspection center confirmed it would fail emissions. I am now paying $1,673.44 for a proper exhaust system. 3. Undisclosed Prior Accident Damage I later learned the vehicle had been in a major accident with more than $8,000 in damage. The repairs by the previous owner were poorly done, and none of this was disclosed to me by Principle Volkswagen. 4. Vehicle Not Properly Inspected or Serviced I was told all fluids were “topped off.” Four days after purchase, my coolant reservoir was bone dry, and I nearly overheated the engine on the highway. Principle VW simply refilled the coolant — another issue that should have been caught before selling the car. 5. Wiper Failure During a Storm During a heavy rainstorm, one of the wipers came off while driving on the highway. I had to pull over to retrieve it to prevent damage to my windshield. This reflects poor inspection and preparation of the vehicle. 6. Undisclosed Aftermarket Modifications Hiley Volkswagen of Arlington informed me during an oil change that the car had an aftermarket air intake and a “catch can” had oil overflowing onto the manifold — another undisclosed modification and potential safety concern. 7. Title Issues and Miscommunication I waited nearly 4½ months for my title because the original owner allegedly lost it. I ended up locating the title myself at an auction house in Louisiana. Later, the title clerk called claiming he had found it — which was untrue. 8. Lack of Follow-Through From Management I spoke with Dan Watkins, who initially said he would help address some of these issues, but progress was extremely slow. After I sent a demand letter requesting reimbursement for repairs, he refused further communication, assuming I had hired an attorney. I had not — I wrote the letter myself. ⸻ Final Statement In my experience, Principle Volkswagen of Grapevine demonstrated deceptive, careless, and utterly disgusting unprofessional practices throughout the sale of this used vehicle. I strongly urge anyone considering a purchase here — especially a used car — to proceed with caution. This review is 100% honest and based on my documented experience. Steve Alonzo – 469-531-3272 More

I had an excellent experience working with Conrad. He was professional, honest, and attentive throughout the entire process. Conrad took the time to understand what I was looking for and helped me fin He was professional, honest, and attentive throughout the entire process. Conrad took the time to understand what I was looking for and helped me find the perfect truck. I truly appreciate his transparency and outstanding customer service. Highly recommend him, 10/10! More

My experience with the process was great. Def not pushy salesman. Was informative and good energy. Time will tell how the car I purchased is but if they stand by their values and inspected t Def not pushy salesman. Was informative and good energy. Time will tell how the car I purchased is but if they stand by their values and inspected the vehicle and made sure it was inspected and Maintenece correctly with no issues. I should be good. I’ll follow up if something else needs to be said. So far so good. Two thumbs up! Car was priced right… 🙏 Don’t hesitate to work with Conrad! More

After an exhausting experience at other dealers, walking into Principle and working with Conrad was a breath of fresh air. He and the others we worked with patiently answered our questions and worked with u into Principle and working with Conrad was a breath of fresh air. He and the others we worked with patiently answered our questions and worked with us at our own pace with no pressure. Working with Conrad to choose our vehicle was a wonderful experience! More

John Alford and crew, always, are awesome. This is our 7 VW with this dealership and couldn’t ask for a better experience and team. This is our 7 VW with this dealership and couldn’t ask for a better experience and team. More

Ethan was so helpful as he helped me purchase my first car! Great service with a smile! car! Great service with a smile! More

Awesome and quick process! John and his team was efficient in getting us in and out and helping us get such a beautiful car! Grateful for him and his kind and bubbly personalit John and his team was efficient in getting us in and out and helping us get such a beautiful car! Grateful for him and his kind and bubbly personality and work ethic! More

Thank you John and Principle Volkswagen! Once again you have helped us find a dream car and made us very happy! Thank you for always making it a smooth process! Once again you have helped us find a dream car and made us very happy! Thank you for always making it a smooth process! More

Ethan and finance team were fantastic. Great experience and would definitely shop here again. Thanks! Great experience and would definitely shop here again. Thanks! More

What a great dealership! Our Sales person was Zoe and she was excellent! Her knowledge of cars was far superior to most other salespeople I have ever dealt with. Her sales ma Our Sales person was Zoe and she was excellent! Her knowledge of cars was far superior to most other salespeople I have ever dealt with. Her sales manager, Mark Gabriel, was understanding and great to work with, and the finance department was also a pleasant to work with. If you're considering a VW visit Principle VW and ask for Zoe! More