Passport MINI of Alexandria

Here is the story. You almost can’t make this stuff up. I contacted the dealership on Saturday 29NOV regarding the availability of a used 2021 Jaguar E-Pace that they had on their lot for over 50 days. They quickly replied back that it was available and sent me an out the door price when I requested it. I set up an appointment for the next business day, Monday 01DEC, at noon. I flew into the area and was heading towards the dealership with money in hand and full intentions of buying the car if it checked out when they called and informed me that there was a safety recall regarding the airbags on the vehicle (I was previously aware of when I researched the vehicle which did uncover a safety recall on that make and model, but it was not a “Do not drive” recall) and that I couldn’t test drive it and they couldn’t sell it. I asked if I could still take a look, they said yes. I arrived and looked at the vehicle, and they proceeded to tell me that it was against Virginia law for them to sell me the vehicle since it had a safety recall. They also informed me that the drivers seat adjustment wasn’t working and they were looking into getting the airbags and seat taken care of, after which they could sell the vehicle. Of course they didn’t know how long that would take but would get me an update either later that day or the next. This all came as a bit of a shock and frustrating to say the least. They didn’t know about this recall and seat issue and address it during the past 50+ days they had the vehicle? Or tell me about this when I initially inquired? That night I did some research and there is NO Virginia law preventing a dealership from selling a USED vehicle with a safety recall provided they inform the customer and the customer acknowledges in writing. There is, however, a federal law preventing the sale of NEW vehicles with safety recalls. In the morning, I took the liberty of contacting Jaguar directly with the VIN inquiring about the safety recall. Jaguar told me that the safety recall did not apply on that particular vehicle based on the VIN. I sent the salesman this information regarding the recall and the nonexistent law figuring perhaps they were confused and thought the federal law applied to all vehicles and not just new and while there was a recall notice on the make/model, never checked by VIN with Jaguar and just assumed it applied to that vehicle. Shortly after sending this information, I received a reply with an update stating that someone came in and put a deposit on the vehicle. Say what? I was just informed less than 24 hours ago that you couldn’t sell the vehicle due to “Virginia law” and the safety recalls. What is going on? I called the dealership and asked to speak to a manager and explained the situation. He was partially aware of what was going on as he knew which vehicle I was talking about without me mentioning. He said he would look into it and get back to me. Which, surprise surprise, he did not do. Basically, they refused to sell to me and concocted a rather bizarre story. It is unprofessional behavior and business practices like this that give people such negative options regarding car dealerships and why most would rather have dental work than visit one. In the end I’m flying back home instead of driving, time and money wasted. Thanks Mini of Alexandria, VA.

jerry silva was a delight to work with. patiently answered all my questions. flew up to dc, was in and driving my car home in under an hour. the car was-well represented by photos and video. very happy with car and experience.

Don’t give disabled veteran discount if used car. Charges a rediculios 999.00 dealer fee plus i condition of the car is over priced by 1200.00