We've been having a few difficulties with Hendricks and have started to go to Charleston for appointments. There always seems to be a problem getting an appointment when we need it, and not a lot of leeway to help on their part.

 

Did Carol ever get her reimbursement for gas on the Miami trip in June? The last time I talked to her, her check had still not arrived. I know I got reimbursed well over a month ago.

 

Interesting, they've treated me better than any stealer--I mean dealership ever has. (I've had the same Toyota/Lexus mechanic for nearly 20 years and still drive the wifey's car and my truck 3.5 hrs to ATL to have him service them.)

I do know they've sold a LOT of MINIs in the past two years since I bought mine, and that means a lot more people in for service. Also, if you're talking the summer months, every mechanic is busier and every shop has less mechanics available due to vacations.

Not making excuses for them, just trying to explain the situation.

Another thought, I show up at their events dressed as Austin Powers, I'm on a first name basis with many of their staff and am an active part of M2C2, there on Saturdays and whatnot, maybe I'm getting preferential treatment and you're getting the "basic package"?

 

I don't know, Dave, twice, even after asking specifically for a weekend appt, they booked us for a tues or wed anyway. I know that Charleston has always gone out of their way for Carol Ann and myself, especially working hard to get me my mini.

 

Even though, I didn't buy my mini at Hendricks, I was fortunate enough to buy it in Germany. I still should be able to have the mini taken care of at a dealership in the states.
Dave,
You being active in m2c2 and going to the dealership on saturdays, should not be an indicator of the service level at mini. That would mean anyone not involved in the club, would get half-a$$ed service.. I don't think that is correct.
a mini is a mini to me.. and each should be treated the same..



Sharon no I have not gotten my refund as of yet. The word from Brian is that there were others who didnt get the receipts in in time, and its taking longer then they anticipated.. they will call us when they get it..

2 months to write a check is a long time I think..

 

I agree, I was just mentioning possibilities, not expecting it to be true; now that I hear the specifics of the complaint, it doesn't apply to me at all.

I always go during the week because they have WIFI so I just dial in to work from there and spend a pleasant hour or so out of the confining and often freezing conference rooms at work. (I'm pretty much paid to sit in meetings all day. ;-0 )

My opinion now is back to my original thought, most are not as fortunate as me to take a weekday appointment, and the weekends probably fill up faster than a MINI at the Dragon...

 

David,

I found out Hendricks in Charlotte would have to schedule me out to OCT for any lenghty repair job. I'm going up next Sat. for a "quick fix" on a mirror. That said, my best guess is that way more MINIs than usual flying off the lots. More of them now, but same # of dealers. Seems like we gotta get in line these days ...

Hope you're doing well. Will miss you next weekend. Have a safe trip to the hinterlands.

 

David you should have explained that you were in the Military and from out of town. I have never know anyone who didn't get an appointment when they needed it. My wife sets hers up for Saturdays as she works all week. Next time talk to Brain Porter about it and I will check it out myself tomorrow as I have an appointment.

 

I talked to them today and seems there are so many people from out of town who need weekend service that it will take from 6-8 weeks. This has been the problem along with the fact that there are not that many Certified Mini Mechanics and they have out grown the small 2 stall shop. Plans are under way for a bigger facility to accomadate the increasing sales of our great little car. Charleston on the other hand has a giant shop with some very good techs. I have also been there and was impressed. As you know most Mini Dealerships are struggling to find a bigger and better facilities. Who would have thought the price of gas would affect your service. Well with the new cars selling as fast as they can unload them it has to effect everyone.

 

My friend who lives in Greenwood wanted one and actually bought one as it came of the truck recently. A nice blue 08 MCCa.

Art

 

I 100% agree - they usually tell me it's about a month out for Saturday appts. that's why I found it easier to drop off and borrow a car for the day during the week.