Dealer at-fault accident - need advice - unauthorized repair
02-03-2012, 09:14 PM
#1
Super Member
Thread Starter
Dealer at-fault accident - need advice - unauthorized repair
I've read similar stories, but mine has a twist - they went and fixed the vehicle without my authorization - and looking for advice.
Dealer wrecked car that had the MB extended warranty. Dealer tried the don't worry we'll fix everything, but I had them postpone repairs until we were in agreement (everything is via email).
Over the next couple weeks as we traded emails, the dealership had the collision center start and complete the repair work. I only found out weeks later when the dealership called to schedule a delivery time - needless to say, shocked was an understatement. At no time did I approve their plan nor did they ever tell me that they were moving forward during our email exchange.
So, what to do? I refuse to take delivery of the vehicle until this is settled correctly.
They did unauthorized work and used a non-certified MB collision center invaliding the MB extended warranty. I can no longer call my insurance company and/or take it somewhere else for a 2nd opinion since the vehicle has been repaired plus what about diminished value estimates, etc.
Dealer wrecked car that had the MB extended warranty. Dealer tried the don't worry we'll fix everything, but I had them postpone repairs until we were in agreement (everything is via email).
Over the next couple weeks as we traded emails, the dealership had the collision center start and complete the repair work. I only found out weeks later when the dealership called to schedule a delivery time - needless to say, shocked was an understatement. At no time did I approve their plan nor did they ever tell me that they were moving forward during our email exchange.
So, what to do? I refuse to take delivery of the vehicle until this is settled correctly.
They did unauthorized work and used a non-certified MB collision center invaliding the MB extended warranty. I can no longer call my insurance company and/or take it somewhere else for a 2nd opinion since the vehicle has been repaired plus what about diminished value estimates, etc.
Last edited by jenz; 02-03-2012 at 09:18 PM.
02-03-2012, 09:42 PM
#2
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W220 M113K
I've read similar stories, but mine has a twist - they went and fixed the vehicle without my authorization - and looking for advice.
Dealer wrecked car that had the MB extended warranty. Dealer tried the don't worry we'll fix everything, but I had them postpone repairs until we were in agreement (everything is via email).
Over the next couple weeks as we traded emails, the dealership had the collision center start and complete the repair work. I only found out weeks later when the dealership called to schedule a delivery time - needless to say, shocked was an understatement. At no time did I approve their plan nor did they ever tell me that they were moving forward during our email exchange.
So, what to do? I refuse to take delivery of the vehicle until this is settled correctly.
They did unauthorized work and used a non-certified MB collision center invaliding the MB extended warranty. I can no longer call my insurance company and/or take it somewhere else for a 2nd opinion since the vehicle has been repaired plus what about diminished value estimates, etc.
Dealer wrecked car that had the MB extended warranty. Dealer tried the don't worry we'll fix everything, but I had them postpone repairs until we were in agreement (everything is via email).
Over the next couple weeks as we traded emails, the dealership had the collision center start and complete the repair work. I only found out weeks later when the dealership called to schedule a delivery time - needless to say, shocked was an understatement. At no time did I approve their plan nor did they ever tell me that they were moving forward during our email exchange.
So, what to do? I refuse to take delivery of the vehicle until this is settled correctly.
They did unauthorized work and used a non-certified MB collision center invaliding the MB extended warranty. I can no longer call my insurance company and/or take it somewhere else for a 2nd opinion since the vehicle has been repaired plus what about diminished value estimates, etc.
Time for a Lawyer make sure you have everything documented and dated
02-04-2012, 12:51 PM
#5
Super Member
Thread Starter
Yes, they used their local "preferred" shop who is not on the certified MB collision center list.
Take nothing less than a vehicle buyback? I'm hoping it can get resolved sans lawyers, but if the Autobahn BMW M5 story is any precedent, lawyers seem like the only way to get proper resolution.
Take nothing less than a vehicle buyback? I'm hoping it can get resolved sans lawyers, but if the Autobahn BMW M5 story is any precedent, lawyers seem like the only way to get proper resolution.
02-04-2012, 02:01 PM
#6
Senior Member
Yes, they used their local "preferred" shop who is not on the certified MB collision center list.
Take nothing less than a vehicle buyback? I'm hoping it can get resolved sans lawyers, but if the Autobahn BMW M5 story is any precedent, lawyers seem like the only way to get proper resolution.
Take nothing less than a vehicle buyback? I'm hoping it can get resolved sans lawyers, but if the Autobahn BMW M5 story is any precedent, lawyers seem like the only way to get proper resolution.
02-08-2012, 10:40 PM
#7
Super Member
Tell them they can keep the car and give you a brand new S as a replacement then you'll keep your silence and not get a lawyer involved. LOL
How bad was the accident anyways?
How bad was the accident anyways?
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02-09-2012, 02:04 AM
#10
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2010 W221
I've been in situations with "at-dealer faults," but I have never heard of a dealer starting unauthorized work. My dealer won't even change my oil without my authorization, let alone repair a $10k accident. Id go through the emails carefully to make sure they hadn't gotten any sign of authorization, and as everyone else said, consult a lawyer.
02-11-2012, 08:29 AM
#12
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(1960) 300d, S550 AMG S500 S600 560SEL
where are you located? depends on how fast the state court can litigate your case otherwise the best way is to talk to the principal owner or general manager of the dealer who was involved with your issue. otherwise you can write MB USA and file your complaint, but asking for another new car for replacement is contrary to law. It will only show bad faith wait till things get to a point of compromise then you can demand for it if you so wish to.otherwise just get your money and cost of money then go buy another one from another dealership.
