My front tire's sudden encounter with a road hazard in - Bettania
My front tire's sudden encounter with a road hazard in led to my most recent unscheduled, but outstanding visit with Smythe Volvo of Summit, NJ. The result, a large flap of the tire's sidewall, which screamed, "Tow-In!!" First, the wonderfully responsive, no on hold or wait time, Volvo Roadside Assistance dispatched Rich's Towing w/driver Jonathan Nazario who assessed the tire, noting it was surprising the tire hadn't blown out, but it wasn't safe to drive on (NOTE- exceptional handling of my vehicle and smooth ride-along to Summit - thank you Jonathan!).
At Smythe, my service associate Patrick McLaughlin GENTLY rolled my vehicle through the UVeye - a high-tech computer inspection which checks vehicles stem to stern, as well as underneath/on top. Tire treads, alignment, car dings you arrive with, the proof is in the photos and metrics of this high tech system, and the customer receives a copy as well.
Patrick provided me with an estimate of time as well as cost, and kept me well-informed during my vehicle's brief stay. I had the option of updates either by phone, text, or in-person - CUSTOMER CHOICE.
As I waited in the upstairs lounge, the snacks and refreshments were plentiful as is typical, and the area was meticulously maintained. Further, notably ABSENT were strong fuel/exhaust odors or loud noises common to other dealer waiting areas.
During my stay, Sales Associate Kyle Jackson recognized me as he passed by the waiting area, and paused to ask about my stay. Kyle is another exceptional Smythe employee, from whom I had the pleasure of purchasing my youngest daughter's Certified, Pre-owned VOLVO S60. I explored the idea of renewing my tire warranty with Kyle, who then immediately suggested and arranged a meeting with Finance Manager, Santiago Piriz. Santiago appeared a few minutes later, with preliminary packages already prepared and in-hand, based on my car's mileage and needs. Although it was my intent to accomplish the tire warranty at that encounter, I did not feel any pressure to sign immediately, and no typical "sales" phrases either. The price is the price, here are the options, think on it, and let him know. I signed.
Back to my vehicle, the ink was barely dry on the tire warranty, when Patrick came in person to let me know my car was finished...AND WASHED. As I paid, Patrick reviewed my future recommended service intervals with their anticipated costs (and times), and patiently answered my questions.
Bottom line, over the years I have had the pleasure of owning a boxy Volvo wagon, an older S90, two S60's, an XC60, and now my XC90 hybrid. My service appointments at other NJ Volvo dealers have ranged from average (no red flags), to poor (not for lack of snacks in the waiting room, but basic repairs not fully repaired). It is for this reason that I choose to drive out of my local area to Smythe Volvo (or be towed there), where I have every confidence that my service, as well as yours, will be exceptional as well....and it's not due to your social media profile, but because that's the Smythe standard of service for everyone...PERIOD. Patrick and the other service associates will ensure your vehicle(s) are treated as if they will be driven by their own families.
The team at Smythe has these great reviews for a reason... Try it here...kick the tires, you'll never look back :)
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