Nicole Quinones | Page 5

My experience is probably a little unique for this company (although not unique in the car-buying world) as I had my own financing (72% in cash and could have paid for all of it in cash but did not wa company (although not unique in the car-buying world) as I had my own financing (72% in cash and could have paid for all of it in cash but did not want to tie up any more cash flow) before coming to EchoPark Automotive in Duluth, GA. I did schedule a test drive showing for the previous day first thing. While on my way to the dealer, Nicole gave me a call to confirm my appointment, which was booked under the car I was interested in. After being there for maybe 20-30 mins, I was informed that the car had been transferred to another location and that they had another car scheduled for a transfer, but they would swap it so that they could bring the car back to Duluth. They said it would be about an hour or so because of the distance, but I could grab breakfast while awaiting the transfer. My son and I decided to wait onsite. We were informed when the driver was on the way back. They inquired about my financing, and I shared with them my approval (it was not a pre-approval) and how the process worked. I've used credit unions before to finance my cars and brought my own financing to make the process seamless. I've never spent more than an hour or so at any dealer having this same financing which is why I LOVE the process. Well, that was a mistake with this company. They kept questioning my financing, asking me to do all of the sending and paperwork. They seemed very unfamiliar with how to handle outside financing. If it was an issue for them, they should've said something from the jump so that I could take my business elsewhere. Then when I got the buyer statement, they added a warranty on there and some other offerings that I did not ask for or agree to add. So I had to reject the paperwork and have them redo it. They also add mandatory appearance coverage (that's not the official name, but I can't think of what it's called). Although it's a customer benefit, it should also be my choice, and that should have been explained in full from the start. The last, frustrating part is that after putting $25,000 down in cash for a car that was $35,000. They would not allow me to drive my new car home. Thank God I already own a car so I could get back home. This process did waste my son's day, though, as he ended up not being needed. They said that I had to wait for the $9,000+ that was being the next day air from the credit union (the credit union will next day air once they receive the paperwork from the dealer). Meanwhile, all of my paperwork has the date sold on it, and they are not open on Sundays. So we shall see when I get the car which I may return if this process continues to be difficult. Under ordinary times (the used car market is terrible right now), I would have walked away, as my car buying process has always been simple, quick, and easy. Their unfamiliarity with how to handle outside financing is why I'm giving them 3 STARS. If you are a first-time car buyer or need their financing, you'll probably be fine. But if you have great credit and bring in your own funding, good luck. My sales rep Nicole was sent to another location when the check should arrive. She called to give me her manager Stephanie's information and said she would contact me. I've reached out to Stephanie via text on her mobile to make sure that they are on the lookout but have not heard back yet. We'll see how this goes, but from my perspective, this experience was the worst car-buying experience. So yes, they probably make the car buying experience great for those unfamiliar or who need their financing, but as an experienced buyer, I would never recommend to anyone I know to purchase from EchoPark due to their lack of ability to handle outside financing (no car dealership gets their money the day of the sale and they do not do wire transfers, they require a paper check), not being able to take my car home that day, lack of transparency on mandatory fees, speed to move a customer through the process. More

Helpful 0

Report | Print

Welcoming environment and kind staff. Nicole was very knowledgeable and helpful. She explained and model the use of several features on the vehicle and offered to help whenever I have que Nicole was very knowledgeable and helpful. She explained and model the use of several features on the vehicle and offered to help whenever I have questions later. Which I did and she was able to answer my questions. Also Jessie provided excellent service with the financial side. This a great place for anyone looking to buy a used car, this dealership provides the best Warrenty. Thank you Nicole for helping me with my purchase of my vehicle you are very lovely! Excellent! More

Helpful 0

Report | Print

Nicole and Nicole were great and so helpful. They made the process so easy for us! They made the process so easy for us! More

Helpful 1

Report | Print

Super welcoming environment! Nicole “Nikki” is the best help! Amazing personality! 10 out of 10 recommend. Nicole “Nikki” is the best help! Amazing personality! 10 out of 10 recommend. More

Helpful 1

Report | Print

My wife and I had a great experience here. I definitely recommend this place if you’re looking for a great car. I definitely recommend this place if you’re looking for a great car. More

Helpful 1

Report | Print

Best experience I have ever had buying a car. My sales man Talon took amazing care of me and Nicole, finance manager, was super helpful My sales man Talon took amazing care of me and Nicole, finance manager, was super helpful More

Helpful 1

Report | Print