Complaint Review: Russel Automotive

BEWARE OF RUSSEL TOYOTA AND AUTOMOTIVE

My tires were wearing irregularly, and my Toyota was veering excessively to the right.

I visited Russel Toyota on Caton Avenue to get a front wheel alignment. I was charged $80.95. Upon inquiring about my alignment I was told I needed new tires. My tires were used less than 25,000 miles and were warranted for 55,000 miles.

I was also told Russel did not perform the alignment I had paid for. Within the week I went to Pep Boys where I purchased my tires. They explained that my tires were wearing improperly and would continue to do so until I got an alignment. They performed a free alignment check to determine this. I then paid for an alignment, and now my car drives perfectly.

After the alignment I drove to Russel’s main location on Baltimore National Pike, and spoke with their service manager. Three days later I spoke briefly with Wade Sterry, their General Manager. He said he would investigate, and get back to me. He never has. Three more days later, I spoke with Jennifer Robinson, their so-called Customer Service Manager. She apologized for Sterry’s behavior and promised she would get back to me. Again, I am still waiting.

Midas, Pep Boys, Mr. Tire and most if not all service centers perform free alignment checks. Russel not only did not do this, but I needed to go elsewhere to get an alignment I had paid for.

This is not the first time I have been ripped off by Russel. In 2010, I got conned into replaceing a drive belt, although I had limited mileage. Even now I only have 55,000 miles on my car. Although I have had Toyota’s since 1973, I have never needed a drive belt replaced.

I suggest that Russel be avoided for any service problems.