written by Edwards456 on 28/08/2023
Please please avoid them... them refuse to talk or reply to emails..
written by hpGriffin8 on 01/05/2023
I found my dream car online and called in to reserve it straight away. The pictures on the website were amazing and I fell in love with the car. I visited the next down and shook hands on a deal. Fast forward 2 days and I'm driving my lovely new car. Thank you everyone at Ashridge Vehicles.
written by JulianHunt on 31/08/2022
The car I bought from Ashridge Vehicles has left me upset, disappointed and considerably out of pocket. After collecting the car I found that both sides had been repaired badly. The list of problems includes runs and debris in the paintwork on both sills, poor application of stone chip and overspray where it shouldn’t be. There was a foil, which is a clear piece of plastic stuck to the body to protect areas that are prone to stone chips, missing from one side and various pieces of trim falling off including lower body moldings, an inner door handle and a molding along the top of the door. Also various pieces of trim have been damaged due to careless removal and broken clips, which should have been replaced during reassembly, were not replaced. The list goes on and on… As the weather got warmer (the car was purchased in January) another problem reared…. One of the lower door moldings becomes separated from the door leaving a gap of at least 5mm when it gets hot in direct sunlight. When it cools it goes back to what looks like its normal position. I suspect that they tried to remove it without first undoing the two screws that hold it from behind which has damaged it. There is no way that I could have known about this issue because it is only apparent when the weather is hot. When I viewed the car it was late on a December afternoon so the light wasn’t great, there was also another customer looking at the car who told me that if I didn’t buy it he would so I had to make a quick decision under pressure. When I collected the car I was asked to walk around it and check that I was happy with it, which I did. If I had noticed anything I would have discussed it then, but I didn’t. New car day is special, and I was super excited, maybe blinkered, and maybe naively expected a car with only 9700 miles on the clock at what seemed to be a reputable dealer, would be in good condition, or dare I say it, close to perfect. My mistake it would seem. In Ashridge Vehicles own words “Vehicles are cleaned and maintained to the highest standards by our highly experienced valeting team” so I cannot help but wonder if the ‘highly experienced valeting team’ might have noticed the repairs, or certainly the missing foil, and forgotten to mention it to me? Had I known of all the problems I would not have bought the car and as it stands I don’t consider the car to be in the condition in which it was described. I have spent hours on the phone, and sent many emails, and don’t think it unreasonable to ask for a contribution towards the cost of repairing the car again, this time to a reasonable standard. Some of the problems are minor and I can sort them out myself, but not the paint work, or the parts that are falling off. To repaint both sills, and the lower sections of the front and rear fenders is going to be in the region of £800. All four door moldings need to be removed and re-attached properly with one potentially needing to be replaced at approx. £300. New clips, grommets and the correct (3M) double sided tape will cost £130. When I first discussed the situation with manager Luigi, by phone, his exact words were that he didn’t have an open chequebook and did I know someone in the trade who could do the work, which I took as an encouraging response. I asked for a contribution of £1200 which wouldn’t cover everything, but would cover the major work that I couldn’t do myself. That was when Luigi’s initial positive response changed to a negative one and he pointed out that most second hand cars sold have had some kind of bodywork repair. And that is an interesting point…. I wonder how many people who have bought used cars actually know if their cars have had any repairs? In many cases the staff at the hand car wash probably know more about the condition of the cars than their owners. Luigi also reminded me that they did supply me with the missing foil (but didn’t fit it), they did re-fit the molding on the rear quarter panel that was hanging off and they also tried to refit the interior door handle properly, and in doing so damaged it. He even made a point of telling me that they had done all that ‘Free Of Charge’! As well as that Luigi also reminded me about a couple of things I had questioned about the car which I turned out to be completely wrong about, which I found patronising. As a result of the inner handle being damaged they did agree to supply a new one (£17.95 on eBay) with clips and the corresponding piece that it attaches to on the door panel. After 23 months of waiting the handle did arrive, but no corresponding bit or clips that had been agreed. Recent emails asking where the missing parts are have been ignored. Ashridge vehicles reply to some reviews left here and I have no doubt they will try and turn this all around on me. They might point out that I inspected the car so it’s my fault, and they would be right, and I beat myself up every day that I didn’t notice anything. They might ask why it’s taken so long for me to leave my review and that would be partly down to waiting 23 months for the replacement door handle and also not particularly enjoying writing negative reviews. It’s the sort of thing I find very easy to put off. But, the pictures don’t lie… the truth is the truth. I will have to spend well over £1200 to put the car right and even then it will never be perfect, it will always be a repaired car. If I ever have a need for VW’s Body protection warranty they will take one look at the repairs and send me on my way. There is nothing I would like more than to edit this review with even a hint of positivity, but nothing could fully make up for the stress, upset, cost and wasted time caused to me by this car.
written by Scotrich on 10/07/2022
Don't even think about visiting this second hand car lot, they don't work without a forward booked appointment. After being asked by the salesman, to phone him in order to place a deposit before a forward booked test drive. I phoned twice, on the allotted day (he had my number in his phone, as I previously watched him put it in) no response, no call back so can you guess what happened next..... I walked away and took my business elsewhere. Poor arrogant behaviour, unhelpful and disinterested, they're obviously so busy and sell so many cars, they don't need the business. AVOID
written by Yoselinq97 on 24/06/2020
Without doubt the worse company I have ever dealt with in my lifetime !!! I wanted to buy a car from these guys and I finally got through after numerous phone calls and emails . They wanted £500 up front just to view the car which was refundable . I called up to arrange a viewing for 3 days straight , I was told someone would call me back . Not once in the entire 2 weeks did I get a call back , I had to chase 3+ times a day for all different reasons. They were so so quick to take my money!! They then took £400 off my part ex value even though I stated all the issues. I then decided to buy a car elsewhere because I was so disgusted with their service and the arrogance of their staff , talks absolute nonsense. Sales man didn’t have a clue or an answer to anything I asked, again I had to chase him daily for anything questions I had as he wouldn’t call me. I was then told my deposit had been refunded and it will be with me within 3 days , 5 days passed so I chased them and surprise surprise , they hadn’t even put it through!!! I finally received my money back , 10 days late!! Avoid this company at all cost , they don’t care about their customers and there service is horrendous
written by Monika2018 on 11/09/2018
Just got my new wheels thanks to the person I dealt with. He had great customer service and sorted out my finances instantly and on an excellent rate. Will definitely recommend these guys to future buyers!
written by Kaylaho403 on 03/04/2018
I recently bought a beautiful VW Touraeg from Ashridge Vehicles. It was a colour I had been looking for for some time, a nice pearlescent blue with beige leather interior. On my first day driving down to Plymouth the vehicle went into limp mode and to add to my bad day I hit a pothole wrecking a wheel and tyre to the value of £900 !! However I called Ashridge and they told me to call the AA under my warranty and the vehicle was recovered to them. Now I can honestly say that Ashridge would not have known about this issue, as I'm sure they don't get into every vehicle they sell and drive it for 100 miles. This would not be practical for any dealer to do this. Fortunately I had still got my old car to use even though they offered to lend me a car. Within a couple of days they identified the fault as a sticking Turbo Activator linkage which they promptly replaced, the boss then drove the car 200 miles to test it. The car was duly delivered back to me and is running a treat, and as a gesture they put on the vehicle a new wheel and tyre to replace the one I had damaged. So overall I am most satisfied with the way they conducted themselves with this issue, no quibbles just lets get it done ASAP. Good management and customer service, so I am well pleased, Well done Ashridge !! as Arnie would say, "Ill be back"
written by GregoryMiller on 20/06/2017
I bought a Renault Clio from Ashridge vehicles and was very pleased with the service. The car was presented very well and I received help with every question I had. Overall a very good experience. I would certainly recommend this dealer to anyone looking for a new car!
written by mvMay323 on 24/04/2017
I recently purchased an Range Rover evoque from Ashridge Vehicles. After one week there was a fault on the vehicle and following a full health check from a Land Rover main dealer it was diagnosed with rear differential pump failure and an alert for 80% worn rear brake pads and discs. Although they did contribute to the pump being replaced they were not interested in the rear brake situation and claimed it had passed the MOT. Land Rover and quick fit both say this would be close to a failure and would come with an advisory note for replacement. This was not covered in the warranty and no contribution to the cost was given. Puddle light out on delivery of the car again not covered. Finally we paid for extra autoprotect exterior and interior carpets and mats. On arriving home we noticed the full evoque mats had not been put back in the car. After numerous calls the mats have never been replaced. There is a large stain in the boot of the car and if you try to clean it off the carpets a black stain just comes of like black paint? To add insult to injury the handbook was missing and funny enough eBay is full of them for £50.00. So my advice is to check everything before you buy from this garage.
Written on: 18/06/2017
Dear mvMay323,
My name is Aimi and I am the sales manager here at Ashridge Vehicles. I am sorry to hear you are not happy with your after sales service. Looking into your issue's I can see your warranty covered you for your oil pump but you opted for a main dealer to rectify, which their high labour rates pushed the claim limit which would have all been covered by a specialist dealer. The independent MOT inspector assessed your car with no issues and also the inspection noted your rear pads at 25%. this leaves them still quite serviceable and for Land Rover to state they are would be close to failure contradicts this. I think it would be fair to say that Main dealers and Kwik fit earn their money from over zealous changing of parts in contrast an MOT Examiner has his job on the line when passing a car as safe. I know which one I would trust! We would dearly love to put new tyres, brakes etc on all our used cars but in an internet, price competitive market, there is only so much we can do to 5 year old cars. I can see you travelled over 100 miles to purchase our car so I can only assume that this was the right car for you at the right price and a good example? Unfortunately the car came in to us with only 2 mats and no handbook, after you checked the car over and were happy with it, in hindsight we thought that you found this acceptable, our apologies. We are not aware of the black paint issue but of course would be happy to look at this for you when convenient. Rest assured our continued interest in your purchase.
Kind Regards
Aimi
written by PaulBrd on 01/10/2016
Very efficient service from the advisor who took care of everything as arranged. Fantastic car as well!
written by Carhungry1 on 02/08/2016
We recently purchased a Ford Fiesta from Ashridge Vehicles. All the staff were very friendly and the whole transaction was very relaxed. The car was at a very competitive price and it was worth making the trip from Stratford Upon Avon to collect this little gem of a car. Thanks to all concerned.
written by Julianax1953 on 18/03/2016
I recently brought a car from ashridge vehicles and I couldn't have asked for better customer service, I was talked through everything step by step and any questions I had were answered and explained. I would highly recommend this dealership.
written by Davon381 on 17/03/2016
Be Aware.. Horrible Experience.. They advertised the vehicle as higher model and high spec with extra features, none of the features are available after buying the car. The Firm dont take any responsibility. Be careful with these guys... I should have given zero stars, site does not allow, hence one star
Written on: 18/03/2016
Hi,
For the benefit of the readers of your comments which I can only assume you wish to influence, I would like to respond in a more accurate manor than you have portrayed. As a point of fact, before you paid for or collected the car, you inspected, discussed and were fully aware that the model/specification of the said car differed to the description given in our advert. You were under no obligation to complete the transaction and were free to cancel the deal. You agreed and confirmed that you were aware of the error in specification as being different to advertised before you payed for the car. Despite this we have had numerous discussions with yourdelf over the past month with you attempting to extort monies from ourselves for this difference and now unfortunately you feel compelled to leave us a poor feedback. Mistakes in advertising a model/specification to a vehicle can and do happen, something we apologies for, however when this is made quite clear to a customer before they pay for or collect a car and are offered to cancel the transaction beforehand, we cannot then latter be held liable to compensate you for this discrepancy.
Yours Sincerely
Sales Manager, Ashridge Vehicles
written by drainage111 on 20/02/2016
Booked an appointment 3 days in advance to view a car on the Saturday. When we arrived the salesman opened the car and said have a look and come and see me in the office. He clearly couldn't be bothered to sell me the car he thought the car sold itself. Well, there was mud on the inside doors especially all over the internal seals, crisps on the seat and it stunk of rotten eggs. Really disappointed as the pictures on the internet must have been of a different car, I walked into the office and expressed my dissatisfaction on the cleanliness and the lack of interest from the salesman especially as we were the only ones there, surprise surprise! He apologised then let me walk out. Consider carefully before doing business as there appears to be a lack of professionalism
Written on: 02/03/2016
Hi,
I'm Aimi the sales manger here at Ashridge Vehicles. I'm sorry to hear that you were disappointed with the service and cleanliness of the car when you visited us. I have looked into this and must apologies as it appears that the day before you viewed the car another customer had test driven the car and it had not been re valeted. Jeff the salesman who you booked your appointment with was unaware of this and hence our slip in standards. We also do like to leave customers alone to make their own decisions when deciding on a purchase, I'm sorry that this isn't the way that you wished to be treated. Jeff did explain to you that a simple re valet would rectify this and again apologised for the error. We feel that all points considered, a one star review is a little harsh especially that within half an hour after you left our premises another customer came and viewed the car as it was and agreed to purchase it. Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any other concerns regarding your dealings with Ashridge Vehicles.
Kind regards
Aimi Scott
Written on: 05/03/2016
Sorry if you think my comments were harsh however I feel your excuses are the of the same standard as our visit, the person testing driving the car the previous day must have been eating crisps whilst driving through fields due to the mud on the internal door seals and crisps on the seats and for some reason it smelt of bad eggs inside. Fair play you sold the car 30 mins later but he never mention about a re valet although he did apologise. This was clearly a mistake as you have some great reviews but I spent 3 hrs cleaning & polishing my daughjters car to part X to impress and maybe this a one of the reason we were disappointed. I made the appointment at 9am on the Thursday and maybe me thinking the car was going to be standing at the front in an open space all polished and giving us the wow factor on the Saturday as soon as we arrived was a bit to much to expect.
In my business I'd have been choked if we had given one of our customers the first impressions I got and maybe that's the first thing I thought when arriving.
Thanks
written by KLD01 on 16/02/2016
I recently bought a car from Ashridge Vehicles and I received great service from them. I was given a very fair part exchange price for my old car and I am very happy with the car I purchased. It had been valeted to a high standard when I picked it up and had been serviced and given an MOT as it was only 3 months away from its first MOT. The member of staff I dealt with was very polite and didn't try to give me the hard sell. I felt that I was able to take my time and make sure that it was the right car for me. I would definitely buy a used car from these guys again.
written by AnthonyO'Neill366 on 09/02/2016
Spotted a car om their site Called them and i was asked to come a see it anytime at my convinience before i make any decisions Went same day Took me round to inspect Informed about all the defects on the car (had only come in the day before) and what they are doing to fix them (geetting parts etc, and they promised to get it fixed within 5days, but it ended up up being only 3days when i made tham aware a needed a car ASA practical MOT for 1yr, given 1/4 tank fuel (was almost empty during my inspection, serviced; Low rate APR for part payment;competitive price for a high spec car Friendly polite staff Would go there again next time!
written by on 19/01/2016
I purchased a VW car 6 years ago from Ashridge, really pleased with how it has performed and am still driving it. Recently bought a car for my son, received same good service from Ashridge.
written by 199Faulkner on 06/10/2015
I thought I wanted a Jeep. Ashridge Vehicles had a little Patriot which I bought without much consideration and the next day I drove it to work in traffic and realised it was totally impractical for my needs :( I called Ashridge in a panic and they handled my change of mind really well! We did a part exchange and I had a new little car (an awesome sporty Golf) that same day and I just wanted to say thanks to the team for being so sweet and helpful despite my fussiness and strange request to change my mind! They were really lovely, honest and efficient throughout and I'll definitely go back in a couple of years when I trade up. Next time I'm going to test drive a few more cars though and take a little more time to make my decision :)
written by amandawinnie on 24/09/2015
I have been looking around for a car that I hope will last. When contacting Ashridge regarding an advert they has on Autotrader, I was given a full and honest description of the car. I travelled nearly 3 hours to get to Ashridge vehicles and I would happily do that again for the service I got. I was greeted as I walked through the door, because I was early for my appointment, they made me coffee whilst I waited. Comfortable waiting area and all the staff were friendly. The car was exactly as described (if not better), the paperwork process was smooth and quick. Luigi explained everything to me before asking me to sign anything. All my questions were answered fully no matter how silly they may have been and I was treated with respect. The car is a dream to drive and a couple of weeks on I received a telephone call to ask if I am happy with everything! Top people and really happy with everything. Thank you
written by lorrainethompson on 15/07/2015
I have to say a massive thank you to Ashridge, the staff were friendly and helpful. The car I inspected was just as the advert described and clean. I have visited several dealers before making my decision and I was pleased I choose Ashridge to make my purchase.
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Luigi010's Comment
Written on: 03/09/2020
In response to your comments, you did not call us 3 times a day after leaving a deposit to only get to see see the car after 2 weeks. Your talking complete nonsense! The truth of the situation is that your part exchange that you had told us over the telephone was in a "lovely condition" was upon viewing in fact a complete horror. Numerous baldy re-sprayed, miss-aligned panels and shoddy finish all over the car meant your eagerness to gain as much money for your car as possible was a stretch that we couldn't agree too. So bad was your car, I cannot believe you wouldn't have been able to see this. We offered numerous options to try and come to an agreement but you didn't want any of them so we cancelled the deal and give you a full refund of your deposit. I understand that you missed out on our car and thus your subsequent disappointment when another buyer bought it but please do not be bitter against our company. If you had described your car accurately in the first instance we would never had to been in the uncomfortable position and the embarrassment of explaining to you why your car was not worth what you thought it was. For the record, both salesman you mention have over 30 years experience in the Motor Industry, mostly from Main dealerships, so again I think your views towards them are quite mistaken. Whilst your dealings with us were just after lockdown was lifted, the restrictions that we are finding in this new era of retail mean a little patience is required when engaging in a complex transaction, as I know of no business right now that I can get through too on the first telephone call, so our apologies for this but you may find you'll need to wake up to reality and be a little more understanding of the situation the whole world is facing.
Regards
Luigi
Sales Manager
Ashridge Vehicles