Complaint Review: 86th Street Photo & Video

When looking for a GPS for my car, I, too, was sucked into the 86th Street Photo & Video vortex by the promise of low prices, immediate shipping, and 5-star rating. The now familiar theme (see previous reports) of email confirmation requests and high-pressure sales pitch were played upon me, also. In addition to the greatly inflated offers for extended warranties and storage devices (on the order of 3X), I was told that I would have the Garmin GPS in three days. When I declined, I was treated to a disparaging comment about my personal buying habits.

Subsequent to my conversation with the sales person, I received an email indicating the item was back-ordered for 2-3 weeks. Since I was out of town on business for the next few weeks, I waited to be notified that the item had been sent. After nearly 4 weeks without any notification, I called Customer Service and found the unit was now indicating a back-order of 4-6 weeks. Needless to say, I cancelled my order.

I was able to find the same unit at a better price (and free shipping) by being more persistent with the internet. Given the number of reported complaints, one can only imagine the number that have gone unreported. Unless you care to be hassled and misled, I suggest you look for a different vendor.

Thom
Some where in, California
U.S.A.