Salem Ford

Falsifying Documentation - Dishonest - Lacks Integrity - Unresponsive I took ownership of a 2024 vehicle that, unbeknownst to me, had two damaged tires - a massive safety concern - especially considering this group knew I’d be driving this vehicle 85 miles home. The safety of myself and my family is the upmost importance. Ford Gold Certified vehicles must go through a 172-point check that includes a thorough tire inspection. Upon talking to SM Brandon, who needed to confer with GM Armando, a man that never returned or accepted a single phone call I made to him directly, he stated that his technicians completed the 172-point inspection therefore the damage had to occur after it left their possession. In a follow up phone call, I brought to Brandon’s attention that THEIR online pictures, provided by Salem Ford/Key Auto Group, when zoomed in on the front tire, showed the gash in the tire sidewall. Evidence that it did not happen in my possession but present while in theirs at least 2 weeks previously. I also pointed out the picture of the low tire pressure warning light - which I was told prior to purchasing that this rear tire had been “fixed”. This tire has smaller chunks missing from the sidewall as well but absolutely no indication of a tire plug. Brandon continued to state that he has to believe the service department inspection (but not the photo evidence on their own website). I even called the service department to verify the service performed on this vehicle, there was no indication of “fixing” a tire. Did they merely add air temporarily and call it a “fix”? Is their motto to sell before the consumer notices what’s wrong so they can save a few bucks? I had both the tires inspected and they were beyond repair. Integrity and pride in workmanship, not at Salem Ford. Website states 3-day exchange and that was not upheld. So, I was lied to by sales that something was “fixed” (verbal communication), that there were no “blemishes or damage” (via text), that they had a 3-day exchange policy (published on website) and that the tire damage did not exist (photo evidence it did, published on their website). I would not trust a single member of this group. If they thoroughly and honestly inspected these tires, inspection would have failed. So, did they inspect them and purposely not report the damage, or did they not inspect them at all? Either way, that’s falsifying Ford Gold Certification documentation and my assumption would be that it comes from the top management. I gave up after approx. 15 calls to Armando, I wanted to see what the golden number would be before he accepted a phone call but I’ve realized that it would never happen. Afterall, two 21-inch tires are expensive to replace – I know, I’m left with the bill. This vehicle also had a damaged backup camera which had to be repaired under warranty. Upon looking back at the sales pictures, it was evident by the blurry pictures that Salem Ford knew of several issues with this vehicle and did not repair them prior to a sale. The detailing of this vehicle was almost non-existent. They took it through a carwash at best. The door trims, lift gate, trailer hitch, wheels, etc. all caked with mid-west dirt. There are other items with this vehicle that I am unhappy with but safety alone should keep everyone away from this dealership.

High prices and wouldn't move on pricing. Multiple sales people contacting me making the process more confusing! Ordered new vehicle elsewhere at 4% below invoice!

I’ve now bought two cars at Salem Ford. They are a class act. Both times the salesperson was top notch, most recently Mike “Salty” Saltman. The GM Armando Rodrigues was especially kind as well. I knew him as a youth playing baseball and basketball with my boys. What a fine and accomplished person he has become Will do business here forever