Is it me or this dealer?

[LibTimothy]

I called Johnson Bros Ford in Temple Texas this morning to get an appointment for an oil change on my F350 6.4L diesel. The service writer asked me for my truck’s vin number. I pointed out that it is on the truck which is outside… and it is raining. The writer would not make an appointment unless I went out in the rain and read her the vin number. I asked why and was told that their system would not let them do anything unless there is a vin number. Plus they needed it to look up the truck’s service records. I pointed out that every other dealer gets the vin after I show up for my appointment and looks up the service records while doing the service.

The service writer was very firm: If I don’t go stand out in the rain and get the vin, I am not getting an appointment for service.

I don’t get it. I am a new customer. I explained that I was looking for another Ford dealer to get my truck serviced as the dealer in Belton closed. I asked four times for an appointment and finally told the service writer that I would go to the Ford dealer in Killeen.

I thought dealers WANTED new service business?

Is it me?

[STANGMAN893]

It is true that the VIN number is needed for the first appointment and to look up parts.But all the dealerships I have worked the service writer went out when the service attendant wasn,t available.The service attendant would write the vin number down,mileage check the truck for damage and then park it.Sounds like someone didn't care who you were and didn't want to get wet or get up.

[LibTimothy]

Yes, but I was at home calling on the phone. I just wanted to set up an appointment. But unless I went out in the rain and gave them the vin, they were not going to give me an appointment.

Why do they need the vin before they will set an appointment??? Over the phone????

The only excuse I can think of is they do not want my money.

[stumblefoot]

With so many dealerships in the area closing, I guess they think they got you by the short hairs. I take mine out to Lampasas, they are good folks. IMHO Killeen Ford SUCKS. Cove Ford is closed Gatesville Ford is closed. Now its just my OCD but I make copies of my registration and ins cards, your VIN is on both and keeps you in and out of the rain. And if your truck disappears you have VIN & Lic plate# handy. Along with the documentation to pick it up IF they catch it before it crosses the Mexican boarder.

[mudrunninpig]

they dealer where I take mine has a 3 bay drive thru, you pull in so its out of the elements. If it would have been me, I would have left, if he isnt going to do his job properly, he wont get my business