Unpleasant surprise...

SilverE90Sport · 11-25-2005, 08:35 AM

My salesman called me a week or so ago stating that he had forgotton to complete the neccessary paperwork for BMW assist. He also said that he needed a credit card on file to complete the process and for convenience purposes in case of service upgrades,etc. He said there would be no charge to the account. Well, I received my statement today and there it was- $257.40 charged by BMWassist on 11/17. So should I just dispute the charge or try and let them handle it?

LEDZEP · 11-25-2005, 08:39 AM

Sounds like your salesman is a complete moron. Call the GM of the dealership and tell them this is unacceptable. You went for some period of time without BMW Assist due to their negligence and now your account has been charged when it should not be. Demand compensation for your trouble even after they straighten it out. Like something expensive from the accessories catalog...

How new is your car? If you haven't received your BMW call yet, mention to the dealer (GM) that unless they satisfy you on this there is no way they will get anywhere near a 5 rating.

E90 Enthusiast · 11-25-2005, 08:43 AM

I think I'd at least give them a chance to fix their mistake before disputing. I'd be surprised if they don't correct promptly. Then, use dispute as a back up plan. Credit card issuers keep track of those things, might want to save those bullets for bigger battles, so to speak.

LEDZEP · 11-25-2005, 08:45 AM

Just as a follow up for comparison, not only does my CA do everything right, she also set up the Sirius subscription for the new E91 to be on my same account as the E90, so that when the time comes to renew I can get the multiple device discount. She spent like an hour on the phone with Sirius getting them to understand what to do... she's a gem. Your guy sounds like a typical lazy salesman.

SilverE90Sport · 11-25-2005, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LEDZEP

Sounds like your salesman is a complete moron. Call the GM of the dealership and tell them this is unacceptable. You went for some period of time without BMW Assist due to their negligence and now your account has been charged when it should not be. Demand compensation for your trouble even after they straighten it out. Like something expensive from the accessories catalog...

How new is your car? If you haven't received your BMW call yet, mention to the dealer (GM) that unless they satisfy you on this there is no way they will get anywhere near a 5 rating.

Already received "the call" and boasted abouted their service! I have nothing to hold over their head except for the repeat business (family has purchased 3 vehicles from them.)

LEDZEP · 11-25-2005, 09:03 AM

I'd still make that call. Your salesman is an idiot, and the general manager needs to know that. He also needs to make you happy.

needashower · 11-25-2005, 09:07 AM

Sounds like an honest mistake. Have the rep fix the problem. Choose your battles wisely.

petefalzzz · 11-25-2005, 01:30 PM

I wonder if led Zep has the hots for his CA??

mishenka · 11-25-2005, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by petefalzzz

I wonder if led Zep has the hots for his CA??

I wonder if she has hots for him? After so many things she've done for him...

Atty · 11-25-2005, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SilverE90Sport

My salesman called me a week or so ago stating that he had forgotton to complete the neccessary paperwork for BMW assist. He also said that he needed a credit card on file to complete the process and for convenience purposes in case of service upgrades,etc. He said there would be no charge to the account. Well, I received my statement today and there it was- $257.40 charged by BMWassist on 11/17. So should I just dispute the charge or try and let them handle it?

My salesman tried the same thing on me...i didn't want BMW Assist because I don't see any value in it. My salesman wanted my credit card anyway for the free 1st year (with automatic renewal of course), but I refused. He then told me he'd get in trouble if he didn't sign me up, "for legal reasons". His explanation was that if I crashed and BMW Assist didn't work because I didn't sign up for it, they could get sued. Yeah, right. Hehehe another dealer moneymaking trick foiled.

In the end, I gave him nothing, he gave up and I went on my way.

Bottom Line: If you don't want the service and never did, I suggest you dispute the bill with the dealer and your credit card carrier. Any reputable dealer will reverse the charges for you, no questions asked.

Good luck.

petefalzzz · 11-25-2005, 04:47 PM

My CA specifically told me not to give a credit card number. He said BMW Assist would automatically bill and he thought I should be able to decide whether I wanted to renew or not. It was nice to deal with a straight shooter. Good job Atty. of calling the BS.

LEDZEP · 11-25-2005, 05:10 PM

First off Atty, if you have BMW Assist why would you not want it activated for the free year? That doesn't make any sense at all to me.

Giving a credit card number is completely optional, and is not required for the activation and use of the first year of service. BMW Assist service plans changed after September. With my June E90, I have the option to use BMW Assist for directions, etc. at $4.95 per use. If you plan you possibly do that then it's best to give them your card number so you're not trying to fumble for a CC the first time you want to use the service. Concierge services are free and unlimited (remember.. pre-September... hey that rhymes). After September, you no longer get anything free except emergency services. They want like $125/year extra for everything else, but directions are unlimited, etc.

So it comes down to a choice of what services you might want and whether your billing is bulk up front or ala carte. Either way the charge that appeared on your card is completely unfounded. Like I said before, this guy is obviously qualified to be a car salesman (pronounced lazy and stupid).

In any event, I don't know why you wouldn't use the first year free even if it's just to know that help is on the way if you're unconcious in a ditch.

SilverE90Sport · 11-25-2005, 09:22 PM

Finally received a call back. The salesman said he had never heard of "them" doing this before. He then proceeded to tell me "It's not that I am being lazy but could you just activate you BMW assist by pushing the button? They will have your account info right in front of them and they will be able to credit your account for you. It will take all of 4 or 5 minutes." Really going the extra mile there.

BMW Lawman · 11-25-2005, 10:56 PM

Hmmm...I would demand a new car without the BMW Assist. If they refuse, I would drive my car through the biggest picture window you can find at the dealership. I would then stage a sit in protesting the lose of your $200+ dollars until the general manager comes out of his office and personally apologizes and then fires the client advisor in front of you............or I would just press the button the next time your driving and ask for a refund.

mckimble · 11-25-2005, 11:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMW Lawman

Hmmm...I would demand a new car without the BMW Assist. If they refuse, I would drive my car through the biggest picture window you can find at the dealership. I would then stage a sit in protesting the lose of your $200+ dollars until the general manager comes out of his office and personally apologizes and then fires the client advisor in front of you............or I would just press the button the next time your driving and ask for a refund.

LEDZEP · 11-26-2005, 07:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMW Lawman

Hmmm...I would demand a new car without the BMW Assist. If they refuse, I would drive my car through the biggest picture window you can find at the dealership. I would then stage a sit in protesting the lose of your $200+ dollars until the general manager comes out of his office and personally apologizes and then fires the client advisor in front of you............or I would just press the button the next time your driving and ask for a refund.

True. As battles go, this one isn't really worth waging. Simple fix by any means...

Also, looks like the salesman may be innocent, and someone at BMW Assist screwed up. After the stories we've heard about them, that's easy to believe.

jpsquared · 11-26-2005, 07:19 AM

I don't know... sounds like the CA didn't walk you thru the features like he was supposed to. When I picked up my car, they had a dedicated "tech" sit in the car with me and literally went over every button, I-Drive setting, convenience etc. that was in the car. He was knowledgeable, courteous, and when we activated the free year of BMW Assist, he flat out told me that if I didn't want to, I didn't have to give my credit card info. All I did was refuse over the connection, and all was well.

It's too bad so many dealers are such douches when it comes to little aggravating stuff like this. Really sours the experience. As soon as my BS detector goes off, I'm outta there... I love to hear them whine like babies at that point

LEDZEP · 11-26-2005, 07:57 AM

Yep. Stephanie always has everything ready and perfect.

Atty · 11-26-2005, 09:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LEDZEP

First off Atty, if you have BMW Assist why would you not want it activated for the free year? That doesn't make any sense at all to me.

Giving a credit card number is completely optional, and is not required for the activation and use of the first year of service. BMW Assist service plans changed after September. With my June E90, I have the option to use BMW Assist for directions, etc. at $4.95 per use. If you plan you possibly do that then it's best to give them your card number so you're not trying to fumble for a CC the first time you want to use the service. Concierge services are free and unlimited (remember.. pre-September... hey that rhymes). After September, you no longer get anything free except emergency services. They want like $125/year extra for everything else, but directions are unlimited, etc.

So it comes down to a choice of what services you might want and whether your billing is bulk up front or ala carte. Either way the charge that appeared on your card is completely unfounded. Like I said before, this guy is obviously qualified to be a car salesman (pronounced lazy and stupid).

In any event, I don't know why you wouldn't use the first year free even if it's just to know that help is on the way if you're unconcious in a ditch.

Understand that my CA was the kind that give salesmen a bad name. What he explained to me was that if I do the first year free, I needed to give them my CC number for activation; and after the year is up they will bill me under AUTOMATIC RENEWAL unless I affirmatively cancel. Don't want the hassle. I know I'll never call them for directions (that's why I blew a large amount of dough on Navi). I also don't plan on ending up in a ditch on a dark, rainy night like they do in the OnStar commercials. Plus, I carry a cell phone everywhere I go, which is basically the same thing. So I just don't see any value in the product.

LEDZEP · 11-26-2005, 09:23 AM

Atty - certainly your perogitive... too bad your CA was the typical plaid sports coat type.

Atty · 11-26-2005, 04:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LEDZEP

too bad your CA was the typical plaid sports coat type.

Yeah, no kidding. But I'm not going to lose sleep over it, I'll just continue to blast him on the board..

Regards.

BMW0 · 11-26-2005, 05:08 PM

Be honest calm and reserved, handle the problem professionally as he will do the same in return to match your courtesy. I hope this helps.

11-25-2005, 08:35 AM	#1
SilverE90Sport Private 9 Rep 55 Posts Drives: 06 330i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: San Antonio iTrader: (0)	Unpleasant surprise... My salesman called me a week or so ago stating that he had forgotton to complete the neccessary paperwork for BMW assist. He also said that he needed a credit card on file to complete the process and for convenience purposes in case of service upgrades,etc. He said there would be no charge to the account. Well, I received my statement today and there it was- $257.40 charged by BMWassist on 11/17. So should I just dispute the charge or try and let them handle it?
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11-25-2005, 08:39 AM	#2
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	Sounds like your salesman is a complete moron. Call the GM of the dealership and tell them this is unacceptable. You went for some period of time without BMW Assist due to their negligence and now your account has been charged when it should not be. Demand compensation for your trouble even after they straighten it out. Like something expensive from the accessories catalog... How new is your car? If you haven't received your BMW call yet, mention to the dealer (GM) that unless they satisfy you on this there is no way they will get anywhere near a 5 rating. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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11-25-2005, 08:43 AM	#3
E90 Enthusiast Second Lieutenant 2 Rep 225 Posts Drives: 2011 335d Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Missouri iTrader: (0)	I think I'd at least give them a chance to fix their mistake before disputing. I'd be surprised if they don't correct promptly. Then, use dispute as a back up plan. Credit card issuers keep track of those things, might want to save those bullets for bigger battles, so to speak. __________________ 9/13/05 ED - 325i SG / Terra / Burl / PP / SP / CWP / iDrive / Step / Logic7 / 35% Tint / Blacklines
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11-25-2005, 08:45 AM	#4
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	Just as a follow up for comparison, not only does my CA do everything right, she also set up the Sirius subscription for the new E91 to be on my same account as the E90, so that when the time comes to renew I can get the multiple device discount. She spent like an hour on the phone with Sirius getting them to understand what to do... she's a gem. Your guy sounds like a typical lazy salesman. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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11-25-2005, 09:03 AM	#6
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	I'd still make that call. Your salesman is an idiot, and the general manager needs to know that. He also needs to make you happy. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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11-25-2005, 09:07 AM	#7
needashower Private First Class 6 Rep 104 Posts Drives: 2003 Saab 9-3 Arc Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Chicago iTrader: (0)	Sounds like an honest mistake. Have the rep fix the problem. Choose your battles wisely.
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11-25-2005, 01:30 PM	#8
petefalzzz Private First Class 5 Rep 163 Posts Drives: BMW 335d E90 Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	I wonder if led Zep has the hots for his CA?? __________________ 335d / TiAg/ Black
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11-25-2005, 04:47 PM	#11
petefalzzz Private First Class 5 Rep 163 Posts Drives: BMW 335d E90 Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	My CA specifically told me not to give a credit card number. He said BMW Assist would automatically bill and he thought I should be able to decide whether I wanted to renew or not. It was nice to deal with a straight shooter. Good job Atty. of calling the BS. __________________ 335d / TiAg/ Black
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11-25-2005, 05:10 PM	#12
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	First off Atty, if you have BMW Assist why would you not want it activated for the free year? That doesn't make any sense at all to me. Giving a credit card number is completely optional, and is not required for the activation and use of the first year of service. BMW Assist service plans changed after September. With my June E90, I have the option to use BMW Assist for directions, etc. at $4.95 per use. If you plan you possibly do that then it's best to give them your card number so you're not trying to fumble for a CC the first time you want to use the service. Concierge services are free and unlimited (remember.. pre-September... hey that rhymes). After September, you no longer get anything free except emergency services. They want like $125/year extra for everything else, but directions are unlimited, etc. So it comes down to a choice of what services you might want and whether your billing is bulk up front or ala carte. Either way the charge that appeared on your card is completely unfounded. Like I said before, this guy is obviously qualified to be a car salesman (pronounced lazy and stupid). In any event, I don't know why you wouldn't use the first year free even if it's just to know that help is on the way if you're unconcious in a ditch. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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11-25-2005, 09:22 PM	#13
SilverE90Sport Private 9 Rep 55 Posts Drives: 06 330i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: San Antonio iTrader: (0)	Finally received a call back. The salesman said he had never heard of "them" doing this before. He then proceeded to tell me "It's not that I am being lazy but could you just activate you BMW assist by pushing the button? They will have your account info right in front of them and they will be able to credit your account for you. It will take all of 4 or 5 minutes." Really going the extra mile there.
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11-25-2005, 10:56 PM	#14
BMW Lawman Supreme Commander of Allied Forces 24 Rep 283 Posts Drives: 2012 335i Sport Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Oregon iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 BMW 335i F30 [0.00]	Hmmm...I would demand a new car without the BMW Assist. If they refuse, I would drive my car through the biggest picture window you can find at the dealership. I would then stage a sit in protesting the lose of your $200+ dollars until the general manager comes out of his office and personally apologizes and then fires the client advisor in front of you............or I would just press the button the next time your driving and ask for a refund. __________________
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11-26-2005, 07:19 AM	#17
jpsquared Another transplanted NY'er 1 Rep 34 Posts Drives: '06 330i 6MT TiAg Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	I don't know... sounds like the CA didn't walk you thru the features like he was supposed to. When I picked up my car, they had a dedicated "tech" sit in the car with me and literally went over every button, I-Drive setting, convenience etc. that was in the car. He was knowledgeable, courteous, and when we activated the free year of BMW Assist, he flat out told me that if I didn't want to, I didn't have to give my credit card info. All I did was refuse over the connection, and all was well. It's too bad so many dealers are such douches when it comes to little aggravating stuff like this. Really sours the experience. As soon as my BS detector goes off, I'm outta there... I love to hear them whine like babies at that point
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11-26-2005, 07:57 AM	#18
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	Yep. Stephanie always has everything ready and perfect. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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11-26-2005, 09:23 AM	#20
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	Atty - certainly your perogitive... too bad your CA was the typical plaid sports coat type. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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11-26-2005, 05:08 PM	#22
BMW0 Colonel 237 Rep 2,059 Posts Drives: AW E90 330i Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Spokane, WA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	Be honest calm and reserved, handle the problem professionally as he will do the same in return to match your courtesy. I hope this helps. __________________ 330i 6MT l 255 HP @ 5900 rpm 214 lb-ft Torque @ 3500 rpm l Alpine White l Beige l Aluminum l ZSP l 494 l PDC "Freude am Fahren" = "Joy to Drive"
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