screwed by cardealer

[Dica]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? NC

I recently purchased a used car ('04 Mini Cooper) from a dealer (Dodge dealership). Shortly after I discovered that the factory installed radio was gummed up with something (drink spilled in it) and took it back in. They replaced with with the same type of radio but a week or so later the speakers started randomly going out, now when you start the car it plays for anywhere from a second to 2mins then cuts out.

I took it back in and they said they couldn't see anything wrong and that I'd have to take it to the Mini dealership to have them diagnose the problem and if it was their fault THEN they'd replace it. The Mini dealership is going to charge me over $100 just to look at it.

Is the Dodge dealership responsible for fixing this or do I have to suck it up and pay the Mini dealership first?

Thanks,
D

 

[Zigner]

You bought an 8 or 9 year old car with a factory stereo. What did you expect?

 

[Dica]

Um, I expected some helpful information here?

Other than a couple sticky buttons, the radio worked fine, now that they've replaced it, it doesn't work...seems a clear cut case that it's their fault but they're insisting I take it elsewhere to get inspected first.

 

[Zigner]

Um, I expected some helpful information here?

Other than a couple sticky buttons, the radio worked fine, now that they've replaced it, it doesn't work...seems a clear cut case that it's their fault but they're insisting I take it elsewhere to get inspected first.

Then I suggest you do so.
Or, you could spend that $100 and get an aftermarket stereo that puts that hunk of junk to shame.

 

[Banned_Princess]

Um, I expected some helpful information here?

Other than a couple sticky buttons, the radio worked fine, now that they've replaced it, it doesn't work...seems a clear cut case that it's their fault but they're insisting I take it elsewhere to get inspected first.

I think it would be better if you replaced the whole radio system. yourself, or let a professional replace the speakers and deck. this is the most stressless solution. yes it will cost money, bet then you will have a rockin stereo.

it is an old car, and it would be imposable for either dealer to be sure who's fault, if anybodies, the problem is. and anyway, there going to just keep changing parts with other old parts.

definitely, you are on the losing end of endless buck passing.

I don't know why you didn't check out the radio while test driving, if it was that important for you.

 

[Dica]

Thanks Banned.

I did mess with the stereo prior to purchase, everything worked except for a few sticky buttons like I mentioned. I thought they were doing me a favor by replacing it for free. I didn't want to spend any money on it is the thing. It's got the Harman Kardon sound system upgrade already in it.

Oh well, thanx for the info, guess I'll be radio shopping soon.

 

[swalsh411]

Pretty sure it was sold as-is also.

 

[Zigner]

Thanks Banned.

I did mess with the stereo prior to purchase, everything worked except for a few sticky buttons like I mentioned. I thought they were doing me a favor by replacing it for free. I didn't want to spend any money on it is the thing. It's got the Harman Kardon sound system upgrade already in it.

Oh well, thanx for the info, guess I'll be radio shopping soon.

Right - so you KNEW there was a problem with the radio. Presumably, you conducted your negotiations with this in mind...

 

[Dica]

Yes, I knew there was a problem with it, I drove it for 2wks while I waited for the appointment for them to replace the stereo...during this time, not once did the speakers ever go out.
They replaced the stereo, now the speakers don't work...

 

[OHRoadwarrior]

I would consider removing the radio and checking the attached or detached speaker wiring. The cost will be zero dollars.

HELP! Radio removal - dashboard built like Fort Knox! - MINI Cooper Forum - MINI2 Mini Cooper Forums

 

[startedone]

Pretty sure it was sold as-is also.

Yes but the replacement likely offers the OP some hope ... sounds like a heat related issue, like a wire is barely making contact somewhere.

Once the shop replaced it then they are on the hook for the quality of work/parts.