ComplaintsforGateway Classic Cars of Ft. Lauderdale

• Initial Complaint

  07/12/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Sales and Advertising Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  In June 2024, I made an online purchase of a 1970 Jeep CJ5 from Gateway Classic Cars in Fort Lauderdale, *******. The Jeep was advertised on their website as recently restored with no problems other than no roof cover or doors. It specifically stated it had a functioning AM/FM radio with CD player. The ad also stated that all gauges were in working condition. When the car was delivered on July 3, 2024, I noticed there was a plastic cover over the radio compartment. Behind the cover, there was no radio or CD player. Additionally, when I drove the Jeep, I discovered the fuel gauge, and oil gauge are not functional. The wiring under the dash is a disaster and dangerous, but that is not the issue. I have sent numerous emails to the initial sales person and then the manager of the dealership and also to the corporate office. Neither were helpful and refused to refund any amount of money for the mis-representations about the radio, gauges or electrical problems. Their response is that I purchased the vehicle "as is." The problem is their initial description stated there was a radio and CD player, and that all gauges were operational. This was a complete falsification of facts. The dishonesty, and inaccuracy of the ad is the problem. I asked them to reimburse me $1500 to cover the cost of a new radio and CD player, and this amount would help cover the cost of the electrical problems. Gateway Classic Cars refused to take responsibility for their mistake. This company has proven to be deceitful and dishonest.

  Business response

  08/06/2024

  The business acknowledges they have been in contact with this customer about a few complaints from his vehicle purchase. However, after full review, the business believes some of the consumers statements were inaccurate to the facts in reference to this transaction. This individuals questions were answered throughout his interaction with the sales-staff member. He was also provided with the option and even a recommendation of having the vehicle inspected by a 3rd party service prior to proceeding forward with the purchase. He chose to decline this option and felt comfortable proceeding forward, attempting to purchase the vehicle at a reduced cost.
  
  The vehicle in discussion was being represented on consignment basis and thus,when the original offer was taken to the seller/consignee for review it was declined. A counteroffer was eventually presented and agreed upon by this purchaser. Upon receiving the vehicle, he contacted both the location and corporate office complaining about various or minor items which had been mentioned to him prior to purchase. Coincidentally he requested compensation or a reduction in price in the exact amount he originally offered. This request was ultimately denied.
  
  In closing, after investigating the consumers complaint, the business found that no malintent transpired during the representation, negotiations, or transaction of this vehicle. After reviewing the facts, the company informed the customer that ******************** considers this purchase to be completed in its entirety and has closed out this transaction.

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