Dealer Attitude

[Tyris]

Have one dealer a few miles away and next closest is about 100 miles a way and dealer closest to me says well if you go with this other dealer you will miss out on our great customer service. So asked point blank that if I do not purchase my machine from you will you not service my can-am? The answer, well we will but we take care of "our" customers first and when we are busy during the summer you might have to wait.

Is this how it is?

Because if it is I'm not 100 percent sure that I want to be a Can-am owner and my reasoning is fairly simple. If I'm 500 miles from home and spyder goes into Limp Mode I really can't afford to come across a dealer with this attitude and hear, "We'd really like to help you here but Bob over there needs his oil changed maybe we can get to you in a couple of days."

The Can-am dealership network is a concern to me anyway since they are not like Harley dealers that dot the map like Starbucks, but if some have this attitude well it makes it even worse.

And it kind of affects recalls and service contracts that state that you can take your machine to any dealership and affects internet dealers as well? Or did I merely run into one dealer?

[kbwitt]

I had a dess code problem on one trip and on a long trip needed a rear tire replaced had great service from both stores.
I do not like what the guy at your store said so can feel your concern. I do not know what I would do in your shoes. I hope it all works out.

Kenn

[Bob Denman]

This is not a unique attitude at all; auto dealers will also put you at the back of the line for service, if you didn't buy from them.
And why not?? :dontknow: If a customer is "all-in" for a particular dealer; why shouldn't they receive a bit of preferential treatment, over others that have purchased elsewhere?

Having said this: my dealer pretty plays it "straight up". Your bike gets serviced based upon your position in their line, and they don't "re-shuffle the deck".

[Zip]

Car dealers do the same thing. They may not say it like that but they do.

[rcturner]

This is not a unique attitude at all; auto dealers will also put you at the back of the line for service, if you didn't buy from them.
And why not?? :dontknow: If a customer is "all-in" for a particular dealer; why shouldn't they receive a bit of preferential treatment, over others that have purchased elsewhere?

:agree:
For a business that sells and services, it only make sense that the customer that purchased their unit from them would receive a higher priority when it comes to service or any other related activity. This is also normal when it comes to discounts on service costs, parts and/or accessories. That is just how life is.

[IdahoMtnSpyder]

I think that attitude is directed more at local customers and non-emergency service, not out of town travelers.

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[4 MARIE]

You Have TWO dealers within 100 miles? That's what stood out for me in your post.

I have TWO dealers within TWO STATES.

[siny10309]

Have one dealer a few miles away and next closest is about 100 miles a way and dealer closest to me says well if you go with this other dealer you will miss out on our great customer service. So asked point blank that if I do not purchase my machine from you will you not service my can-am? The answer, well we will but we take care of "our" customers first and when we are busy during the summer you might have to wait.

Is this how it is?

Because if it is I'm not 100 percent sure that I want to be a Can-am owner and my reasoning is fairly simple. If I'm 500 miles from home and spyder goes into Limp Mode I really can't afford to come across a dealer with this attitude and hear, "We'd really like to help you here but Bob over there needs his oil changed maybe we can get to you in a couple of days."

The Can-am dealership network is a concern to me anyway since they are not like Harley dealers that dot the map like Starbucks, but if some have this attitude well it makes it even worse.

And it kind of affects recalls and service contracts that state that you can take your machine to any dealership and affects internet dealers as well? Or did I merely run into one dealer?

Sounds like the salesman just trying to get the sale. Buy it, enjoy it, and stop worrying so much.

[cognaccruiser]

Traditionally bike dealers will go out of their way to help people when then are from out of town on a road trip. This has been shown to be true for Spyder dealers too. I see your scenario as a little different.

Gary

[ndspyderlover]

Have one dealer a few miles away and next closest is about 100 miles a way and dealer closest to me says well if you go with this other dealer you will miss out on our great customer service. So asked point blank that if I do not purchase my machine from you will you not service my can-am? The answer, well we will but we take care of "our" customers first and when we are busy during the summer you might have to wait.

Is this how it is?

Because if it is I'm not 100 percent sure that I want to be a Can-am owner and my reasoning is fairly simple. If I'm 500 miles from home and spyder goes into Limp Mode I really can't afford to come across a dealer with this attitude and hear, "We'd really like to help you here but Bob over there needs his oil changed maybe we can get to you in a couple of days."

The Can-am dealership network is a concern to me anyway since they are not like Harley dealers that dot the map like Starbucks, but if some have this attitude well it makes it even worse.

And it kind of affects recalls and service contracts that state that you can take your machine to any dealership and affects internet dealers as well? Or did I merely run into one dealer?I bought my spyder in Alexandria mn, and the local dealer Moorhead marine services it and also stores it. I worked at a auto dealer in fargo, nd and we took all the customers and non customers vehicles in order that the came in. we never gave preferential treatment to anyone except travelers who came in off the road with car troubles. it is all about the dealers attitude.

[Chupaca]

You have to know more than one person at a dealer to get an acurate feel for the place. The techs will work on whatever and seldom know where the unit came from. The service / writer manager would control that and is responsible for make the shop profitable so would not discriminate (one would think). Now the sales folks are mostly on commission and will say anything to get you to buy. A good salesperson will not do so by threats. I would go to the owner/general manager and point blank ask him....Agree that most traveler have found great service while on the road....:thumbup:

[geoshmo]

I purchased my 2015 Rt Ltd from a dealer in Regina, Sk. which is about 140 miles from me because the deal was better than my local dealer in Saskatoon, Sk. which is 50 miles away. I had bought my previous 2012 RTS from Saskatoon and had them service it as well. With the new bike I like to go back to my dealer for service but it is not always possible, my old dealer however is more than happy to service it as long as I make an appointment which is also their policy for there own customers.

I have also had to have a tire change and small service issues done while on trips and I have been treated very well by BRP dealers while away from home. Any that I have dealt with treat " emergency" repairs with priority, which is how it should be.

[Tazzel]

Dealerships will say that but it really is not true. When you call to make an appointment, they look at their schedule and fit you in where they can. Do you think that they actually keep slots open "incase" a customer that purchased at their dealership calls for an appointment. Its all dealership bull crap to guilt you in to keeping you from moving to the next dealership. I always shop around for the best price for purchasing new and for regular service I find the prices vary greatly. This does not prevent you from getting the evil eye from the sales guy the next time your at the Dealership you did not purchase from. I would love to purchase locally but I have saved thousands going to a dealership 2 hours away.

[dieselengine9]

Dealerships will say that but it really is not true. When you call to make an appointment, they look at their schedule and fit you in where they can. Do you think that they actually keep slots open "incase" a customer that purchased at their dealership calls for an appointment. Its all dealership bull crap to guilt you in to keeping you from moving to the next dealership. I always shop around for the best price for purchasing new and for regular service I find the prices vary greatly. This does not prevent you from getting the evil eye from the sales guy the next time your at the Dealership you did not purchase from. I would love to purchase locally but I have saved thousands going to a dealership 2 hours away.

This is my exact experience. Saved over $8000 on two machines by shopping around and my local dealership takes care of me just fine. They make plenty of money off me lol

[nealperkins]

You asked the wrong guy! The sales guy has his needs (sales goal) and the service guy has his needs (his goals...P&L statement). But, now you know the sales guy will lie to you, so that's good. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that this dealer is violating his Can Am franchise agreement.

[Blade]

Hello

I have a dealer near me that states the same thing about customers who by from him will get preferential service. Well I told him that if he wanted to sell me a RT at my price I would buy. He didn't some I took my business to his competitor, but I use his dealership for maintenance service. And yes if he is busy, I might have to wait an extra day before he completes my service. No big deal.

Blade

[Tazzel]

Hello

I have a dealer near me that states the same thing about customers who by from him will get preferential service. Well I told him that if he wanted to sell me a RT at my price I would buy. He didn't some I took my business to his competitor, but I use his dealership for maintenance service. And yes if he is busy, I might have to wait an extra day before he completes my service. No big deal.

Blade

Exactly, why does the local dealer not give me preferential treatment!! I purchased locally the first time around. 3 years later I had smarten up some and started shopping around when I planed to purchase my second Spyder. I thought my local dealer would match any price given because I was a returning customer. Nope not at all. It works both ways buster!!!

[murphybrown]

I travel approximately 20k miles a year on my Spyder. I have had very little emergencies...but have had some while on the road (Plus the 998 engine liked an oil change more often than the 1330). I have never ever had a dealership not want to HELP me get back on the road as quickly as possible. BUT when I have an emergency if I don't know the reputation of dealer in area I will post on Facebook and/or Spyderlovers mentioning my issue and asking for a dealer referral.
One example...back when I had my 2010 RT it locked in gear in TN...got on Slovers as my roadside (and get a really good raodside worth the cost) said the nearest dealer was like 36 miles..Checking with this forum found out that that dealer is BAD NEWS BEAR....they ten told me where a reallly good dealer was. 169 miles away. Little discussion with roadside and they agreed to take me to the 169 mile dealer. That dealer was waiting when we rolled in...immediately took Spyder in and found issue (I'm totally non mechanical so I was no help)...he did not have the part BUT he quickly took the needed spline from a new for sale spyder on his sales floor. Fixed me up and I was out the door 2 hours later.

Another issue I had a 622 trailer from HELL...BRP was working on getting all things aligned with their procedures, but I was traveling way far away from WA...again they BRP worked out and they would have tires waiting to be mounted when I got to the next dealership...again those dealers rolled me right in and swapped tires and helped me get home to my closest dealer for complete rehaul of trailer.

Just my experiences...but I'm pretty sure if a dealer shared that attitude with me I'd think hmmmmm not. Of course my nearest dealer is 4 hrs away!!! :yikes:

[JayD]

I have found that if you are on a trip and something happens dealers will get you in as soon as possible. Of course there can always be a bad one.

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[Tyris]

Let me ask you this, will a dealer make more money on the initial sale or the service of a vehicle for the duration of the life of the vehicle. I would assume that a dealer will make money with regard to warranty work as well as any boots, helmets, tee-shirts etc etc.


I'm not in the business, but I'm thinking long term income rather than one-shot income would be the one where the most money is made?

[cuznjohn]

car dealers do it all the time. if you buy a chevy from one dealer, then go to another for service, they will screw with you. but if your out of town, and bring your bike or car into a dealer away from home, they don't have a problem with that

[hobbykim]

You don't have to worry where do you want to buy or where do you want to bring your bike to service . Dealer have to service no matter where do you buy . if they don't honest service you call the factory let them know and if they still not do your service they will loose to carry and sale what ever vehicle they sale ,just don't worry and go to buy what vehicle you want to buy

[Musashi]

:agree: But if you're considering buying from a different dealer than the closest one, there's a reason or three. Price? Selection? Your nephew works at the dealership further away and you want him to get the commission from the sale? These are issues that your nearest dealer should get an opportunity to overcome, but he cannot if he doesn't know what they are. Speak plainly to him about why you might purchase further from home and give him a chance to earn your business.

This sounds like a bit of a dysfunctional conversation to me. If the dealer is using veiled threats to motivate people to purchase, he's already lost your business. So he's either a moron or there's a back story here you're not telling us.

In any event, the "hometown" bias only applies in their economic influence zone. And it is pretty universal in the vehicle industry: boats, cars/trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, RVs, ...you name it. In fact, you probably don't want to have Men's Warehouse do the alterations on a suit you bought at the Joseph A Bank down the street, either. :lecturef_smilie:

P.S. If you don't think HD shops play this game you're wrong.

I think that attitude is directed more at local customers and non-emergency service, not out of town travelers.


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[Bob Denman]

I guess that if you bought from another dealer because you got a great price: I hope that it was great enough... nojoke

[ARtraveler]

You Have TWO dealers within 100 miles? That's what stood out for me in your post.

I have TWO dealers within TWO STATES.

And we have only one dealer in the whole state of Alaska. The nearest "other" dealers are now 1500 miles east (Whitehorse YK Territory) and 2000 miles (Washington State). :thumbup:

[ARtraveler]

I think that attitude is directed more at local customers and non-emergency service, not out of town travelers.

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I tend to agree with the emergency service stuff.

Dealers holding a grudge because you got a better price elsewhere have cropped up from time to time also though. When there was a choice in Alaska (two dealers) I stuck with the one with the better reputation. Not the best prices, but I always received good service when needed. The other dealer made everyone wait about a week for service. They no longer sell :ani29:.

[Tazzel]

I guess that if you bought from another dealer because you got a great price: I hope that it was great enough... nojoke

You definitely have to run the numbers. Trade value is another. I saved almost 4k between sale price of the new vs. trade value offered. I gave the quote to local dealer of what other dealer was offering and he could not even come close. So decision was easy.

[pitzerwm]

If you were talking to the dealer owner himself IMO he is an A$$hole and no matter what it cost, I'd do business somewhere else. If it was "just" a salesman, I would go to the owner, tell him what the salesman said and ask him point blank if that was his attitude too. You want to blackmail me you better bring a gun. I'd make it my goal to cost this dealer as much money as I could. There are enough people hanging on to your jewels, I don't voluntarily let anyone get on board.

[Bfromla]

:agree: With all above:thumbup: ,but got to point out you were point blank, so whoever you were talking to very well could of reflected & tried to answer you with a point blank answer, hoping your attitude would ease. :lecturef_smilie: There is no 100% happy answer, so they gave you the mess with it overly honest:dontknow: Or just enough:popcorn::popcorn: All they can do is wait & see.
In comparison tho , glad they didn't start bad mouthing about the other dealer or other hard core sales tactics:mad: , dealers nowadays seem to go extreme either way:sour:
1:You get a sales guy that wont let you breathe unless you test ride:banghead: Or
2:they ignore you till snag the first person that enters the sales floor.
( I'm sure there are wagers behind the scene on that too)
with so many sources of reviews & comparison not just products but everything related, it surprising they try at all. As I understand it the customer is already informed & sold they want one:yes: , the rest is the finer details (color& credit payment options) & options (not quite what a sales person specializes in)

[jcthorne]

Car dealers do the same thing. They may not say it like that but they do.


ALL
major car dealers service departments place breakdowns while traveling at the front of the line. Period. its in their dealer agreements. BRP does not do this nor require it. That said, many still do. It the right thing to do.

[WackyDan]

I've used three dealers out of state while traveling.

One for a tire change mid trip. No issues, no waiting.

Two for emergency repairs mid trip. They took me right in. Both took parts off of brand new Spyders to get me back on the road.

My local dealer serviced my spyder and squeaked me in many a time even though I didn't buy my first spyder from them. I did buy my second from them.

Plain and simple, the salesman is employing a scare tactic to get a sale. They don't want you complaining to BRP so I wouldn't worry about dealing with them for service.

[manxman]

Having been a motorcycle shop for over fifty years we had the problem of doing warentee work on vehicles bought elsware. The problem was, there were shops that did nothing but sales at rock bottom prices and no service work. All the warentee work was sent to us, at a rate of far less then what was fair.In the height of the season are customers always came first, as you see it takes a profit to run a good service dept. We always took trvelers in right away even dropping what was being done in order to get them on their way. Once we had a traveler from New York who was going west, he had such a good time while we serviced his machince that he stayed for two more days camping in the back. Service sells make no mistake about that.......

[spaku440]

If you're rolling through Illinois, stay away from imotosports. They've done more damage to our Spyder than they've fixed. AND WE BOUGHT IT FROM THEM !!!! I don't believe they have any REAL technicians on staff. The guy that came and loaded up my wife's machine damaged the passenger grab rails with strapping it to the trailer. He dropped a vial of narcotics onto our driveway, which the dog found. The machine sat at there shop for 4 days when they called to say it was ready for pickup. We got there and found out they didn't fix anything ! We sat there for three hours while they attempted to fix a loose ground wire. The machine was dirty as hell! Grease prints all over it....all this and they claimed they "detailed" it. What a sham this place is. Stay away from iMotosports !!!!!!0


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[Musashi]

For what it's worth, we have 3 dealers within 50 miles and 5 within 75 miles. And I live in a tiny town 80 miles from the nearest metro area.

[Bob Denman]

I'm in about the same situation as you are. :thumbup:
While I didn't buy from the closest guy: I have frequented his shop, and support him when I can.
I chose my dealer based upon where I felt I would get the best service. The initial pricing is important, but you only pay it once. Service headaches will last until you move on to something else. :shocked:

[MurrayBrown]

Have one dealer a few miles away and next closest is about 100 miles a way and dealer closest to me says well if you go with this other dealer you will miss out on our great customer service. So asked point blank that if I do not purchase my machine from you will you not service my can-am? The answer, well we will but we take care of "our" customers first and when we are busy during the summer you might have to wait. Is this how it is? Because if it is I'm not 100 percent sure that I want to be a Can-am owner and my reasoning is fairly simple. If I'm 500 miles from home and spyder goes into Limp Mode I really can't afford to come across a dealer with this attitude and hear, "We'd really like to help you here but Bob over there needs his oil changed maybe we can get to you in a couple of days." The Can-am dealership network is a concern to me anyway since they are not like Harley dealers that dot the map like Starbucks, but if some have this attitude well it makes it even worse. And it kind of affects recalls and service contracts that state that you can take your machine to any dealership and affects internet dealers as well? Or did I merely run into one dealer?

Read the many other items posted by others. All vehicle dealers, in general but not always, tend to have the same opinion. Regardless, consider yourself VERY fortunate that you have TWO choices within 100 miles of each other. Here in Manitoba (Canada) there is only one delaership. The next closest is in Regina (350 miles west) and Saskatoon (490 miles west) or Thunder Bay (440 miles east). And, in perspective, consider Indian or Triumph owners. They have to go a l-o-n-g way between delerships! Victory owners have the same issue. As for your comment about Harley dealerships, yes, they are a dime a dozen. But some of them concern themselves with their own customers first. As a striking example, the only Harley dealership here in Winnipeg will NOT service any Harley, even under warranty, if the dealership itself did not sell the bike to the owner. I'm willing to bet there are other H-D dealerships out there. In the end, you need to determine WHY you are considering a Spyder. If, like myself an others, it is because of hip, knee, or other body issues that make riding a two-wheeled motorcycle too much of an "adventure" and you want to have the security of a Spyder, then get the Spyder. And either get insurance coverage (if in the USA) to cover roadside assistance/towing, or if in Canada, get the super-duper CAA coverage.