So, as some of you might know, certain years of the MKIVs have issues with their seat heaters. VW actually had a recall for it at one point.
A few years back I had mine in for this recall. It wasn't probably a year afterward though, that my passenger side got really hot and then simply stopped working. By that time my warranty was out, and since my driver's side still worked, I figured I could put it off for awhile.
Well, about 4-5 months ago, my driver's side started to get really hot too. I figured it was on it's way out. Well instead of just quitting, it went ahead and burned a hole right through the cover (next to my right thigh).
So I asked Brandon if I would be wasting my time if I brought it in to Montana Import Group. Fortunately for me, there was an extended warranty issued for the seat heaters. I went ahead and took it in, they looked at it, and said they would replace the bottom cushions, heating elements and covers on both side.
Dropped it off this last Friday morning, picked it up in the afternoon. I now have brand new bottom seat covers, and my seat heaters work on both sides!! Didn't have to spend a dime to do it!
Overall I actually had a pretty pleasant experience with MIG.
Now for the complaint portion of it.
When I originally took it in to ask about it, Brandon told me to talk to the Service Manager. I told him what was going on with my car, but he didn't seem like he wanted to give me the time of day.
Along with the seat heaters, I asked him about the fact that my clear coat is starting to peel pretty bad on my front end. I got a very curt answer of "12 months, 12,000 miles". I started to ask him about the 12 years, unlimited corrosion warranty, and I again got the quick and curt answer of "12 months, 12,000 miles". He said he would give me an 800 number to call and inquire about it, but never did.
There was also an issue with getting my VIN number correct. The way he typed it in, it came up as a 2002 and he started to tell me that it wasn't going to be covered. I had to correct him and tell him that I have a 2003 car. It was almost like he was searching for a reason to deny the seat heater claim also.
I can understand if some punk kid comes in and says, "hey fix my crap". But I was very courteous the whole time I was in there. He could have at least of taken the time to explain the paint policy, instead of basically saying "We're not obligated to fix it, don't even ask." After some continued prodding he did tell me that the clear coat issue doesn't meet the requirements of the 12 year, unlimited mile coverage.
I love my car. I plan on buying another VW in the future when the time comes. But why would I want to buy a car from a dealership that is going to treat me like some punk off the street whenever I bring my car in?
I can't complain about the two Service guys working for him though. Richard was the guy I dealt with, and he was really pleasant to work with. The lady driving the courtesy van was pretty nice too.
"When you want to be a somebody; you drive a new car...When you know who you are; you drive an old car."
