I had been looking for a Tesla S with a specific color and option combo, when one that matched my expectations came-up at apexcars.net. I contacted them and got prompt responses with pictures illustrating the things I wanted to know.
So I went to see the car. I was treated wonderfully, got all the time I wanted to check it out. There was no negotiating, but the price was reasonable and within kbb range. So I tentatively agreed to the purchase price, pending a test drive. Only then did I get to actually drive the car - understandable for a newer, high value luxury car.
So far, so good.
Next was the finance office. There I learned that the car had been equipped with an "iTrax" tracking device for $1,699, and Express Code/Etch for $199 ($1,898 total). Those had not been mentioned to me before, and I didn't see any value in having either. However, I was told they could not be uninstalled. Not wanting to lose the car, I agreed while my blood quietly started to boil.
Since they had to reattach a slightly lose door panel and detail the car, we agreed that I would pick it up the next day.
Upon pick-up I brought-up the iTrax issue with the Manager, and explained that Tesla has vehicle tracking built into its app - so this extra device is worthless to me. They agreed to reduce the price to $999. This was better than $1,699, but still a waste of money.
When I got home, I did some research on the Internet and found the iTrax device advertised for Golf Carts at $299. This web page also confirmed that it's just a box held-on by magnets. Since the Tesla has an aluminum body, this thing had nowhere to attach and just flew around in the glove box, making it easy to find and compare to the iTrax golf cart tracking device on the web.
I also researched the $199 Express Code/Etching and learned that neither law enforcement nor insurances care about it. The real benefit is a $2,500 payment in case the car is stolen, which can cover the insurance deductible. This makes sense for buyers who would be struggling to cover the deductible.
After I posted my review online, the owner of ApexCars.net contacted me. He listened to my concerns, and we were able to settle this issue amicably. It became clear to me that he truly cares about his customers, and will use this story as a training opportunity for his employees.
My advice to anyone considering a purchase at ApexCars.net (or any other used vehicle dealer for that matter) would be this:
As you discuss pricing and financing, ask the salesperson specifically, if there are any charges in addition to the agreed-upon purchase price, mandatory taxes and registration. Ask for a detailed breakdown of all charges to be sure you are making an informed decision on your purchase. Then you can enjoy your new ride without remorse!
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Here is the full story:
I had been looking for a Tesla S with a specific color and option combo, when one that matched my expectations came-up at apexcars.net. I contacted them and got prompt responses with pictures illustrating the things I wanted to know.
So I went to see the car. I was treated wonderfully, got all the time I wanted to check it out. There was no negotiating, but the price was reasonable and within kbb range. So I tentatively agreed to the purchase price, pending a test drive. Only then did I get to actually drive the car - understandable for a newer, high value luxury car.
So far, so good.
Next was the finance office. There I learned that the car had been equipped with an "iTrax" tracking device for $1,699, and Express Code/Etch for $199 ($1,898 total). Those had not been mentioned to me before, and I didn't see any value in having either. However, I was told they could not be uninstalled. Not wanting to lose the car, I agreed while my blood quietly started to boil.
Since they had to reattach a slightly lose door panel and detail the car, we agreed that I would pick it up the next day.
Upon pick-up I brought-up the iTrax issue with the Manager, and explained that Tesla has vehicle tracking built into its app - so this extra device is worthless to me. They agreed to reduce the price to $999. This was better than $1,699, but still a waste of money.
When I got home, I did some research on the Internet and found the iTrax device advertised for Golf Carts at $299. This web page also confirmed that it's just a box held-on by magnets. Since the Tesla has an aluminum body, this thing had nowhere to attach and just flew around in the glove box, making it easy to find and compare to the iTrax golf cart tracking device on the web.
I also researched the $199 Express Code/Etching and learned that neither law enforcement nor insurances care about it. The real benefit is a $2,500 payment in case the car is stolen, which can cover the insurance deductible. This makes sense for buyers who would be struggling to cover the deductible.
After I posted my review online, the owner of ApexCars.net contacted me. He listened to my concerns, and we were able to settle this issue amicably. It became clear to me that he truly cares about his customers, and will use this story as a training opportunity for his employees.
My advice to anyone considering a purchase at ApexCars.net (or any other used vehicle dealer for that matter) would be this:
As you discuss pricing and financing, ask the salesperson specifically, if there are any charges in addition to the agreed-upon purchase price, mandatory taxes and registration. Ask for a detailed breakdown of all charges to be sure you are making an informed decision on your purchase. Then you can enjoy your new ride without remorse!