I recently purched (less than 2 months ago) an 09 Camry with my fiance. We took it to a local oil change shop that I've been dealing with for years, and it turns out that there was a problem with the part the oil filter screws onto, meaning the car could not be driven until that part was replaced. The owner of the shop informed me of the problem so I had it towed back to the dealer to have the part replaced.

Problem one: This dealer insisted that it was the oil change places fault, and would not warranty the vehicle.

Problem two: The part itself is on what they call "nation wide back order", and is a "dealer only" item, meaning it's not available at any local auto parts stores. On top of charging me for the "repair" and a service call, they are not going to cover a loaner the the 7 days (plus?) that I will be left without a vehicle. They were sure to point out that if the oil change were performed at the dealership, then I would have been covered.. it felt as if I was being punished for not taking it there for service.

Apparently spending over 20 thousand on a brand new car means nothing to these guys. Toyota corporate (I dialed the 1 800 go Toyota number) said the dealer was likely to give me a loaner. They logged a complaint number and gave me a contact at the dealer. The service manager scoffed when I showed it to him and said "if it's power you're looking for, she works under me."

Bottom line: My BRAND NEW Camry that has only 3000 miles on it is sitting at the dealer because these guys apparently can't get an engine part for thier own vehicle. I am stuck paying for a rental car in the mean time. By the way: all this trouble is over a 13 dollar part!!!! Toyota corporate gave me lip service while the dealership itself gave me nothing except a ride to the rental car place next door. I will never buy a car from this dealer again, plain and simple!
Amount Paid (US$): 20500
Condition: New
Model Year: 2009