Subject: A Deeply Unprofessional and Disheartening - LaWanda Hardison
Subject: A Deeply Unprofessional and Disheartening Experience
This was, without question, the worst car-buying experience I’ve ever had.
After spending four hours with a salesperson, we finally chose a vehicle that fit our budget and included the features we wanted. There was some back-and-forth about additional charges for a maintenance package and security features we didn’t ask for. After being told those couldn’t be removed, we agreed to a discounted rate.
Then we were sent to the finance department, where things went from uncomfortable to downright unacceptable.
The finance rep, Jeremiah, began speaking extremely fast — almost like he was trying to rush us through the process. I noticed multiple caffeinated drinks and snacks on his desk and figured maybe he was just trying to stay awake. But that wasn’t the issue.
The first document he handed us was an arbitration agreement — something I’ve never signed during past vehicle purchases. When I asked what it was, he seemed annoyed and brushed it off, saying it was “normal.” He couldn’t give a clear explanation.
He also repeatedly misspoke while going over the contract, including the color and interior of the vehicle — which he got wrong. When I corrected him, his entire demeanor shifted. He finally made eye contact, then asked, “Did I do something wrong?” I calmly replied, “No, why do you ask?” His response: “Your attitude makes it seem like I did.”
I explained that I didn’t have an attitude — just questions. From that point on, he grew increasingly defensive. My husband asked about drive-off fees, and Jeremiah couldn’t explain them clearly. He abruptly got up, mumbled “I’ll get your salesperson,” and walked out.
A few minutes later, the salesperson returned and asked what the issue was. We told him there was no issue — just confusion about the terms. As he was explaining, Jeremiah returned, stood by the door, and interrupted. When he finally resumed the contract process, he stood at his desk, looked down at us, and said, “This seems like a hostile environment.”
I told him, “You created this environment.”
He replied that most people are excited at this point in the purchase. I told him we weren’t even allowed to ask questions without being accused of being hostile. As I calmly expressed my concerns, he looked up at the ceiling — like a child trying to ignore their parent. It was dismissive, rude, and belittling.
At one point, he even admitted, “I’m an xxxxxxx.” I agreed. Then he asked, “So do you want to buy the car or not?”
What he didn’t know was this purchase was part of my 50th birthday celebration — something my husband had planned to make the day special. If it had been up to me, I would’ve walked out. But I stayed to support my husband’s effort.
Throughout this entire process, no one thanked us for our purchase. No one congratulated us. Instead, I was repeatedly reminded, “We’re not making any money off this deal,” as if they were doing us a favor.
By the time I left with my new car, I felt drained, disrespected, and empty inside.
No customer should ever be treated like this. Jeremiah’s behavior was short-tempered, combative, condescending, and unprofessional. His accusations about my “attitude” were absurd — he had just met me. His actions created a hostile, unfriendly environment. I believe he should undergo professional conduct and diversity training immediately.
Buying a car should feel like an accomplishment — not a regret. I got the car, yes — but the experience was unethical, dehumanizing, and something I would never want anyone else to go through.
Read More
Dealer Reviews
Cars for Sale
Dealer Log In