PLY CAR SHIPPING DAMAGE
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Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 77
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From: Arizona
clk 63 AMG BS
PLY CAR SHIPPING DAMAGE
So guys I want to take your opinion. I bought my car from Ferrari of Seattle. I had my rare Mercedes Benz CLK 63 AMG black series with 728 miles shipped via ply cars, (which was shipped via ferrari of seattle, their preferred shipper) every thing was fine , except they damaged the RR wheel and the tire. The damage on the wheel is small and tire is ripped on the side and i paid premium for this car with low miles.
Ply cars wants to refinish the wheel and replace the tire. I want a new wheel , is that being unreasonable.
Ply car quote "Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair.
As long as we return the wheel to original specifications.
The wheel will not need to be replaced."
ferrari of seattle has pretty much washed their hands of this,
please advise
thanks
Ronnie
Ply cars wants to refinish the wheel and replace the tire. I want a new wheel , is that being unreasonable.
Ply car quote "Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair.
As long as we return the wheel to original specifications.
The wheel will not need to be replaced."
ferrari of seattle has pretty much washed their hands of this,
please advise
thanks
Ronnie
Last edited by gestut; Sep 9, 2011 at 08:41 PM. Reason: added pics
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2002
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CLK63 Black Series
Tough call.
I can understand how you feel.
No matter how good the repair is, you will know that it has been damaged. Plus, there is also the issue about whether the damage caused some structural problems with the wheel that aren't evident with just a visual inspection.
I think that I would press for a new wheel.
If the shipping company refuses to pay for a new wheel, then I would take the repair money as a down payment on a new replacement wheel.
JDB
I can understand how you feel.
No matter how good the repair is, you will know that it has been damaged. Plus, there is also the issue about whether the damage caused some structural problems with the wheel that aren't evident with just a visual inspection.
I think that I would press for a new wheel.
If the shipping company refuses to pay for a new wheel, then I would take the repair money as a down payment on a new replacement wheel.
JDB
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From: REHOBOTH BEACH DE
88-300CE TWIN TURBO, 99-C43, 05-G55K, 71-280SL, 94-E320 CAB, 08 CLK63 BLACK SERIES
Hopefully you had your own insurance in place as soon as you purchased the car.
"Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair." is not really binding against you as it is their policy not law.
No different then when someone causes collision damage to your car...the other insurance company will always try to do as cheap as possible.
That's why you need to file a claim with your insurance company if you feel there is damage that requires a new wheel and tire.
Even if it's within your deductible, your insurer will fight Plycar's insurer to get your deductible back...
The damage on your wheel is really minimal and can easily be repaired to original condition by a competent wheel refinisher.
Dealers do it all the time on new delivery cars when there is transportation damage.
"Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair." is not really binding against you as it is their policy not law.
No different then when someone causes collision damage to your car...the other insurance company will always try to do as cheap as possible.
That's why you need to file a claim with your insurance company if you feel there is damage that requires a new wheel and tire.
Even if it's within your deductible, your insurer will fight Plycar's insurer to get your deductible back...
The damage on your wheel is really minimal and can easily be repaired to original condition by a competent wheel refinisher.
Dealers do it all the time on new delivery cars when there is transportation damage.
Last edited by RBYCC; Sep 9, 2011 at 10:57 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 449
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From: San Diego, CA
Huracan. S63. CL63. E55.
That is a high polished aluminum. I say have them repair it, inspect it (because it wont be perfect), then demand a new wheel and tire. It requires jumping through a few hoops but will be the best way to get a new wheel rather than just demanding up front.
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 917
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From: Manassas, VA
10 Cayenne GTS, 07 Porsche 911 Turbo
I think it's a reasonable settlement. If you don't like the repair then you should demand a replacement, but I don't think you'll get very far with that either. The BS is a drivers car not a museum piece and it's time some of the newer members on this site understood that.
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Joined: Aug 2010
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From: Northeast
CLK63BS
While I understand you're upset (and rightfully so), I honestly I think you're being a bit unreasonable. If the wheel is repaired properly, you won't be able to tell it was ever damaged, and it should be just as strong. Assuming it is fixed properly, what is your complaint?
If it isn't fixed properly, then you can demand that they either fix it again or demand a new one.
If it is fixed properly, and it still bothers you, then you can sell it to me cheaply (since it isn't any good), and take that money and buy a new one
I think you're best bet, if you really want a new one, is to make it clear to them that if the wheel isn't perfect after they fix it, then you're going to make them repair it again or demand a new one. That way, they know exactly what the situation from your perspective. Otherwise, I HIGHLY doubt they will replace the wheel.
Sorry to hear that it got damaged. At least it is the wheel, which is easily replaced or repaired (unlike, say, the bodywork or motor).
If it isn't fixed properly, then you can demand that they either fix it again or demand a new one.
If it is fixed properly, and it still bothers you, then you can sell it to me cheaply (since it isn't any good), and take that money and buy a new one
I think you're best bet, if you really want a new one, is to make it clear to them that if the wheel isn't perfect after they fix it, then you're going to make them repair it again or demand a new one. That way, they know exactly what the situation from your perspective. Otherwise, I HIGHLY doubt they will replace the wheel.
Sorry to hear that it got damaged. At least it is the wheel, which is easily replaced or repaired (unlike, say, the bodywork or motor).
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 480
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From: LA, CA
C63, CLS550, CLK BS, Sprinter Passenger Van, Odyssey
Hopefully you had your own insurance in place as soon as you purchased the car.
"Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair." is not really binding against you as it is their policy not law.
No different then when someone causes collision damage to your car...the other insurance company will always try to do as cheap as possible.
That's why you need to file a claim with your insurance company if you feel there is damage that requires a new wheel and tire.
Even if it's within your deductible, your insurer will fight Plycar's insurer to get your deductible back...
The damage on your wheel is really minimal and can easily be repaired to original condition by a competent wheel refinisher.
Dealers do it all the time on new delivery cars when there is transportation damage.
"Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair." is not really binding against you as it is their policy not law.
No different then when someone causes collision damage to your car...the other insurance company will always try to do as cheap as possible.
That's why you need to file a claim with your insurance company if you feel there is damage that requires a new wheel and tire.
Even if it's within your deductible, your insurer will fight Plycar's insurer to get your deductible back...
The damage on your wheel is really minimal and can easily be repaired to original condition by a competent wheel refinisher.
Dealers do it all the time on new delivery cars when there is transportation damage.
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Joined: May 2003
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From: ChiTown
06 Carrera4
BBB is a joke. I have filed complaints and the only thing I ever got was no answer from the dealer case closed.
I think other members are correct. It will be hard to get a new wheel. Repair it and make sure they know it has to be perfect or you will ask for a new wheel and take it through your insurance who has better pushing power.
All in all a small thing to worry about now that you have such a monster. Enjoy driving it. Don't let it stand in the garage.
I think other members are correct. It will be hard to get a new wheel. Repair it and make sure they know it has to be perfect or you will ask for a new wheel and take it through your insurance who has better pushing power.
All in all a small thing to worry about now that you have such a monster. Enjoy driving it. Don't let it stand in the garage.
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Joined: Sep 2007
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CLK 63 AMG Black
I think I would accept the repair, with the proviso that it has to appear "as new". I am one of the guys who drives my cars, and I am always ready for the first ding. If you ever intend to track the car, you also have to be willing to accept that it can't be perfect, or you make yourself completely nuts.
As far as I can tell, there are several different variants of "stock" wheels, so it is very possible that you wouldn't have a match, even if they relented. Enjoy the car, and hopefully, this will be the worst you experience. AS
As far as I can tell, there are several different variants of "stock" wheels, so it is very possible that you wouldn't have a match, even if they relented. Enjoy the car, and hopefully, this will be the worst you experience. AS
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From: Naperville, IL/Chicago
2008 CLK63 Black Series 2012 C63 Black Series 2014 SLS Black Series
That is just a small little mark but my fear would be the clear coat issue, they are going to have to strip and re-clear the entire wheel and they will never get it the same quality as factory, you will most likely experience bubbling or lifting of the clear in a year or two, clearing bare aluminum is more difficult than you would think. I would ask for a 2-3 year warranty on the work, if they don't agree demand a new wheel.
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From: Arizona
clk 63 AMG BS
That is just a small little mark but my fear would be the clear coat issue, they are going to have to strip and re-clear the entire wheel and they will never get it the same quality as factory, you will most likely experience bubbling or lifting of the clear in a year or two, clearing bare aluminum is more difficult than you would think. I would ask for a 2-3 year warranty on the work, if they don't agree demand a new wheel.
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From: Naperville, IL/Chicago
2008 CLK63 Black Series 2012 C63 Black Series 2014 SLS Black Series
that was my thoughts, it will never be the same, is my concern, and i know it wont be like the factory, hence the request for the new wheel up front instead of going thru the aggravation, hey they are fine car transporters. regardless, i will hav to check i dont want the wheel stripped , just little touched up some how, at this point, i want this over with and get my money from them for a new tire and the wheel fix,,, its just frustrating that these guys consider them exotic car transporters, and like other people said go the cheap route to fix it.....
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From: Chicago
2015.5 Volvo V60 Polestar
That is just a small little mark but my fear would be the clear coat issue, they are going to have to strip and re-clear the entire wheel and they will never get it the same quality as factory, you will most likely experience bubbling or lifting of the clear in a year or two, clearing bare aluminum is more difficult than you would think. I would ask for a 2-3 year warranty on the work, if they don't agree demand a new wheel.
But I'd skip out on them repairing, get a new wheel. My sister had a refurbished wheel replacement when some high schooler hit her. 2 years later the wheel looked horrible, the refinish started to wear. Luckily, the wheel had a lifetime warranty so it was replaced free of charge. Still a hassle, and this a shop I trust. Do not know if you go back to this shipper if they would help you.
I don't think you are being unreasonable at all. You just paid buco bucks for this car in cherry condition, not in cherry condition with a refurbished wheel.
My.02
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From: Arizona
clk 63 AMG BS
some people here on the forum think I being unreasonable. 
except for couple. ply car says they have the right to fix it first, haha, but i dont want it fixed in the first place, every body says it will be as good as new, ya i have heard that before.. i have no choice but accept the offer for the wheel fix and a tire. may be i will leave the little mark alone, not sure at this point, i would hate get the whole rim redone..... and not match the others
except for couple. ply car says they have the right to fix it first, haha, but i dont want it fixed in the first place, every body says it will be as good as new, ya i have heard that before.. i have no choice but accept the offer for the wheel fix and a tire. may be i will leave the little mark alone, not sure at this point, i would hate get the whole rim redone..... and not match the othersMy thoughts exactly!
But I'd skip out on them repairing, get a new wheel. My sister had a refurbished wheel replacement when some high schooler hit her. 2 years later the wheel looked horrible, the refinish started to wear. Luckily, the wheel had a lifetime warranty so it was replaced free of charge. Still a hassle, and this a shop I trust. Do not know if you go back to this shipper if they would help you.
I don't think you are being unreasonable at all. You just paid buco bucks for this car in cherry condition, not in cherry condition with a refurbished wheel.
My.02
But I'd skip out on them repairing, get a new wheel. My sister had a refurbished wheel replacement when some high schooler hit her. 2 years later the wheel looked horrible, the refinish started to wear. Luckily, the wheel had a lifetime warranty so it was replaced free of charge. Still a hassle, and this a shop I trust. Do not know if you go back to this shipper if they would help you.
I don't think you are being unreasonable at all. You just paid buco bucks for this car in cherry condition, not in cherry condition with a refurbished wheel.
My.02
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From: Naperville, IL/Chicago
2008 CLK63 Black Series 2012 C63 Black Series 2014 SLS Black Series
You are not being unreasonable, it is a very small mark that most people will never notice but if the clear coat has been compromised its going to bubble and lift, its not a matter if if but when. have the warranty the work for 3 plus years and you should be safe.
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From: Arizona
clk 63 AMG BS
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From: South Florida
'10 Panamera S, '06 AMG CLS55, '07 Miata MX5, '02 MB SPRINTER, '99 Spec Miata Race Car (2X)
I had two polished AMG wheels repaired by my insurer two years back. The clear coat started lifting on the polished dish within 3 months (was still good on the painted spokes) and I demanded new wheels. They sent out an inspector and they took it on the chin and replaced the wheels. Good luck with your situation.
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From: MICHIGAN
2001 E55 - 2008 CLS63 -2016 F-150
at this point you might as well let them fix it and then when you get it back say its still isnt ok .. as their policy is to try repair before replacing . whoever thinks that your being unreasonable should go buy a bs have it delivered then notice something that wasnt on there before they bought it . Cant imagine if I was in your shoes . Would have mailed the shipping company some legal forms sayin im suing ur @$$ if you dont replace my wheel ..
but I honestly think your better off sourcing a wheel maybe even a used like new condition one but I can imagine it be hard to find just one anyhow
but I honestly think your better off sourcing a wheel maybe even a used like new condition one but I can imagine it be hard to find just one anyhow
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Joined: Dec 2011
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2001 Nissan
So guys I want to take your opinion. I bought my car from Ferrari of Seattle. I had my rare Mercedes Benz CLK 63 AMG black series with 728 miles shipped via ply cars, (which was shipped via ferrari of seattle, their preferred shipper) every thing was fine , except they damaged the RR wheel and the tire. The damage on the wheel is small and tire is ripped on the side and i paid premium for this car with low miles.
Ply cars wants to refinish the wheel and replace the tire. I want a new wheel , is that being unreasonable.
Ply car quote "Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair.
As long as we return the wheel to original specifications.
The wheel will not need to be replaced."
ferrari of seattle has pretty much washed their hands of this,
please advise
thanks
Ronnie
Ply cars wants to refinish the wheel and replace the tire. I want a new wheel , is that being unreasonable.
Ply car quote "Plycar reserves the right to have first right to repair.
As long as we return the wheel to original specifications.
The wheel will not need to be replaced."
ferrari of seattle has pretty much washed their hands of this,
please advise
thanks
Ronnie
Houston Auto Transport
