Deep Scratches.....

[RIKK03]

I bought a used 2003 explorer Limited about a year ago and as I was doing a full detail last weekend I noticed deep scratches under the paint on the rear passenger door. The paint over the scratches looked dull compared to the other paint and the scratches are deep but you can only see in a certain angle. Now I'm wondering if the vehicle has been on a accident before. I'm supposed to get a vehicle history report but I didn't and the dealer didn't disclosed anything. Am I still entitled for the report a year later or will the dealer fixed this? I'm going to talk to them this week but I need some input before I go. Basically,I need some input on how to by telling them about this problem. Thanks..

 

[Heavymentill]

Minor accidents don't show up on any reports. Especially if its a case where the owner caused the damage by carelessness. (backing into something, banging something against the vehical) I'd say your out of luck its something you should have told them before it left the lot. In there eyes you could have caused the damage.

 

[RIKK03]

I didn't see it at that time till this weekend while I was detailing it. They didn't smooth out the scratch before painting over it. You can't see it if your looking directly at it but with the right angle and enough light you'll probably noticed it. Oh well, I'm taking it in anyways for the tailgate recall and I'll probably mention it. I know that they probably won't fix it but what the hell I got nothing to lose for bringing it to thier attention. Thanks for the response BTW...

 

[Lizard]

I would definately mention it. Go about it this way: Talk to the service manager and pay him a few compliments about their facility, and that you really, REALLY, like the vehicle that you bought there, but found a defect that you missed before committing to purchasing it. Show him/her the scratch, then ask: "what can we do to work this out?" Be firm, but not insulting. They may agree to repaint it, no questions asked, (depending on the mood at the time, or how much they ripped you off on the sale ) If they start "hym-hawing" around, then don't get into a pissing contest with them, but just stand there with a look on your face, like: "I'll never buy anything from here again..and I'm going to talk about you like a mo'-fo.'" Silence can be deafening. Let them do the talking, while you stare them down. The longer you're silent, the more uncomfortable they get, and the more talking they have to do, until they crack under the pressure. If you get into a verbal battle with them, then they know that you're probably never going to be happy with the situation, and are going to "dis" them even if they fix it, so they have nothing to lose by turning you down. If they turn you down, then just wrap up your business, and walk out looking disappointed, avoiding the temptation to give them a piece of your mind. You may get a surprise phone call in a day or so. I've had some mishaps at dealerships, and have used these tactics with about an 80% success rate. They always write up a work order that says something like: "we didn't cause the damage, but will repair in the interest of customer goodwill/relations." Good luck!