There are two dealers in my state. Dealer A is 33 miles away, but located in close proximity to where I work. Dealer B is about 55 miles away, but in the opposite direction. Dealer B takes about to 1.5 hour to get to during the week, reflecting worst traffic.

My original intent was to go to Dealer A, but I haven't found the people particularly engaging. They have been polite, but aloof. I also found it a bit frustrating getting all the pricing variables out of them. They seemed reluctant to tell me the fees and accessory charges. I then decided to try Dealership B, and found them friendly, engaging and upfront. This dealership came across as more professional, and wanting my business.

In terms of pricing, the dealerships are close. At first glance, Dealer A seems to be much lower (connected to the buying program), but all of their fees are unusually high, more so than on any other car I purchased. Dealer B on the other hand has much lower fees, bringing their car inline with the other. Overall, Dealer B comes across as more professional and upfront. They won't be nearly as convenient as Dealer A, though, which may be an issue given comments on reliability. Have you had similar options? Did you opt for convenience or the dealership that seemed more engaged and wanting your business?

 

Go with the more friendly upfront dealer. Down the line that is a good thing to have with scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance. If a dealer is standoffish before you buy then you cant expect much of a difference after he's got your cash.
Good luck!

 

My experience is that the Sales operation and the Service operation are two different cost centers. At my two local dealers, Sales and Service each have their own Customer evaluations and surveys. After the sale is complete the owner experience depends quickly, more and more on a relationship with the Service manager and his team. For some initial post sale issues it does help to have the perceived support of your MA or the Sales Manager. How friendly the Sales Manager is important for about 9 weeks if you custom order, or less if you buy an inventory car. The Service department performance last at least the life of your (warranty) ownership.
I suggest asking members of the local Mini club (if present) and / or other Mini owners about their service experience. I went so far as to meet (interview) the Service teams before I decided where to buy.
Back to your question, you could consider buying from Friendly B and evaluating the two available Service operation (either A or B) for the longer haul service relationship.

 

Mini Service Depts are open on Saturdays until 4PM most places and that includes their parts dept.....schedule your service at the dealer you like and even if it's a longer trip, just make them on Saturdays

 

It would take a lot more than ''friendly, engaging and upfront'' to get me to drive an hour and a half to buy a car. If they can't give you a good discount, buy it from the one who is more convenient even if he's a miserable pr*ck!

 

I agree that sales and service are graded on completely different scales, however, corporate culture tends to permeate an organization. I'd go with Dealership B in a heartbeat.

Steve

 

I was faced with a similar situation when I bought my Clubman.

Dealer A (an hour away). Dealer B (a little over 2 hours away).

I went with Dealer B and am very glad I did.

 

You are fortunate to have two dealers so close to you. For me choice A was 3 hours away in Charlotte. Choice B was 3 hours away in Charleston,SC. I chose Charleston because it makes a great overnight trip and they have great food! But I have been satisfied with the dealership.

 

OT, but is this the same macct as on TZ?

Best,
Terry

 

Yes. It's me. I am glad I found this forum. It's a great resource and the Clubman will probably be my new toy. I enjoy the pictures of yours, especially the interior. Best regards.

 

had to go with dealer A, because dealer(s) B are 450 miles away.

be glad you have a couple to choose from.

 

Excellent!!!

Go with dealer B. Clearly, they understand customer satisfaction better than dealer A.

I have a great dealer in S FL if you want to tie a purchase into a mini-vacation!

Best,
Terry

 

b