Sinclair Smart (Cardiff)

BUYER BEWARE! BE VERY AWARE! I have had the pleasure of purchasing several new Mercedes vehicles over the years from reputable dealerships throughout the UK. However, I truly rue the day I placed an order with The Sinclair Group for a new Mercedes V Class AMG range costing in excess of £50,000. Just over a year ago I arrived at the showroom to collect my new car. During the hand over I noticed some inconsistencies with the paintwork on the front nearside wing I asked to speak with a Manager and was introduced to a Mr Trollope. He apologised and said that it was 'quite common' for new vehicles to be damaged in transit but assured me that the matter would be resolved to my satisfaction. What he conveniently neglected to tell me was that my new car had already been damaged and repaired prior to the collection date. Shortly after taking delivery, I became suspicious of the paintwork on the rear nearside wing. I emailed and phoned The Sinclair Group but they simply chose to ignore me. Even a request to speak to one of the Directors was denied. At my own expense, I consulted a Solicitor who advised me to have my car independently assessed by a reputable company. This I did, again at my own expense and this revealed that the rear nearside wing had suffered considerable damage and had also been repaired. The cost of replacing same wing was estimated at a staggering £9,714.90. I forwarded a comprehensive letter of complaint to Mercedes-Benz Head Office and was assured that The Sinclair Group would contact me to resolve the matter. Needless to say, they didn't bother, I then referred the matter to the company who financed my purchase but they received the same evasive, deceitful tactics that I experienced. To date, The Sinclair Group, who like to portray themselves as a caring, family run, local business. Has, and continues to behave in a manner more associated with a very dodgy second hand back street car trader. My advice to anyone thinking of purchasing a vehicle from this company, is very simple …… Don't Do It! However, if you are committed to a purchase, I'd strongly recommend that you insist on a letter assuring you that your 'New' car hasn't been damaged and repaired before you drive away. It will save you a lot of time, not to mention money!!