wow find another dealership quick
legokcen said:
I've got a '97 that I bought about 4 months ago and I'd like to know what was done to it in the past. I don't have any of the records as I bought it from a dealer. I called my local toyota dealer and they're telling me that due to the privacy act, they can't tell me what service it has gotten in the past without written permission from the previous owner. This didn't sound right to me as there's no way for me to get this. Anyone else know of anything else I can do?
Thanks in advance.
Wow what an idiot that service department must be. Here is their chance to inform you-a new customer- of what potentially needs done-without even looking under the hood or chassis.
It is quite easy for them to look up the records without revealing the name of the previous owner. If you look at it the way I do-it is their duty to ensure that your vehicle has been in for all of the TSBs and recall notices specifically.
I have never had any Toyota dealer refuse to reveal details to me. I did it frequently when considering purchases.
No offense to you greyghost the carfax is a good idea but they are kind of legendary for what they do not reveal.
For example if a previous owner does not utilize their auto insurance policy and pays for repairs on their own, a vehicle is not recorded as in an accident.
My own vehicle was never registered as in an accident but I was able to purchase it as an Oregon branded vehicle which translates to "Salvage Vehicle" on a Colorado title.
Mine for example is a 99 with donor doors from a 96 Runner. Still freaks people out a bit when they see I have multiple VIN#s on my doors and sticker plate.
The previous owner revealed all of this to me and still was able to show me the clean Carfax report. It did not personally upset me as it was the only way I could afford to get into the purchase of a 3rd gen to begin with. It's all relative to me-I was not all that concerned about the "salvage" label.Yes it does likely effect resale value....money schmoney.....
legokcen-run don't walk from that Yota dealership. The one 20, 40, 60 miles away may well be worth the drive. Call ahead and get to know the service manager or the asst.
Or some eager service writer. :biggrin2:
