Irvine Subaru- Lake Forest, CA [Archive]

Erudition

04-06-2002, 11:54 PM

I just had a horrible experience there today:

I went down ready to buy a car, and met up with Carlos, who I had spoken with over the phone. The $500 dollars over invoice he could no longer give me was out of the question now, so we agreed on 800 over invoice for a black one with a spoiler and short throw... Well after like 3 hours of waiting there, and calling up my dad (who has cancer) to come co-sign with me - because the deal was "set", the Sales Manager came out and told me that he was giving me 800 over the cars "23,200" dollar invoice... The price being that because of the equipment that was on it... I said "I negotaited the price of the extra equip when I agreed to 800 over invoice, and they told me "too bad". So I left, and wasted my freaking Saturday...

Screw them!!!!!!

spinwax

05-15-2002, 04:34 PM

I did a search, but couldnt find anything on the dealership itself... I know that they post on here which is great..
I was just wondering if anyone has bought there car from them, and how the service/sales depts are, and did you get a good deal..

I just test drove a car last weekend with my dad, and a guy named Carlos helped me.. He was very nice and helpful.

Please let me know what you think about these guys..

and Irvine Suby if you want to post, feel free too. :D

Thanks in advance.

Irvine Subaru

05-15-2002, 07:24 PM

Hey,

We've got a good reputation, tons of product, mod friendly and are very hands on. We strive to creat a family atmosphere here and welcome you to come by, say hello and just hang out for a bit if you'd like. We're very hands on with our customers instead of being 100% business like a lot of other dealers can be. :):D:)

Ryan
Irvine Subaru

spinwax

05-15-2002, 08:44 PM

Ryan,

Just because you took the time out to post, I will be buying my new car from you guys.. I was just in this last weekend with my dad. My parents were in town, and I had to show the pops this car. He fell in love with it as well. I eat, drink, sleep, live the WRX.

I will probably be getting it in the next 2-6 months if all goes well. I have to get out of my lease on my Volvo..

I wanted to say it was nice to go into a dealer and not get ignored. Im 28 and have a lot of tats, and act like im 18, but you guys treated me like I had 100.00 bills hanging out of my pockets.. thanks.. No mention of the other dealer that acted like I had herpes on my forehead.

I appreciate the time you took to reply and look forward to doing business with you.

thanks,

johnny t.

hmmm, some wheels, and maybe some Tein or Cuscos sound like a plan in my payments as well. ;)

K:()!!y

05-16-2002, 02:22 PM

I've heard such good things about both Irvine (Ryan's name is mentioned the most) and Renick/Fullerton (Tor is the counterpart over there), that I've narrowed my dealerships down before even stepping on a lot (well, Santa Monica doesn't count,...they were closed when i was window shopping).

I was checking out Renick and Irvine's inventories this week, and saw quite a discrepancy in the amounts of WRXs (heavily favoring Irvine).

This sounds kind of cheeseball, but when I do go visit Irvine, I'd like to deal with you, Ryan. I'll send you a private e-mail as followup, but I'm curious about your schedule, and believe that people who are really good at what they do (a bill you seem to fit quite nicely, I've heard) deserve more opportunities to do it.

Anyway,...I'm looking at another week or so before my stolen Integra Type R (everybody see the lovely news on integras yesterday? blah...) gets paid out by the insurance co, and then I'll be looking to buy.

Look forward to e-mailing, speaking, and visiting you, Ryan.

-Kelly
kjmcmillen@yahoo.com

Irvine Subaru

05-16-2002, 08:27 PM

Kelly and Johnny,

Thanks to both of you for letting us have the opportunity to take care of what you need. If you want to schedule a time to come down just give me a call. I'll walk you through any questions or things you'd like to see.
I've been at an event for the new Forester all day today so I'm out of the office right now, but will be returning tomorrow. I'm pretty flexible on my schedule and can come in on weekends that I'm normally off if you'd like. Otherwise, I'm in Mon-Fri, from ~9-6pm. Just shoot me an e-mail and we can set up a time to meet or cruise by whenever you have time.

Ryan
scoobyparts@hotmail.com

eric m.

05-17-2002, 04:34 AM

i bought my car from irvine, as did many, many others in the southern california area. they are the biggest wrx dealer in...i don't know. either in this area or the country. i'm sure ryan can give you more details on that.

i have always been treated nicely at irvine subaru, and i would highly reccommend them. on the other hand, my girlfriend bought a car at renick, and that went smoothly as well. so i can't say anything bad about them.

on the other hand, ryan is featured in this months issue of sport compact car, making him famous. he is also a race car driver.

K:()!!y

05-17-2002, 01:05 PM

eric m. ~

Heh...I love those last two lines. I let my subscription to SCC run out a few months back (they had promised to cover our first annual Integra Type R expo last summer that we hosted out at buttonwillow,...but a change in management flushed that one down the toilet...awww), but I'll have to go pick up this month's edition.

Ryan ~

E-mail coming your way. Thanks for the heads-up on the schedule..I'll try to work with that as much as possible,...getting down there while you're there seems like a good enough reason to take an early night off from wrx...er..work. (:

talk to you soon,

-Kelly

Irvine Subaru

05-17-2002, 02:31 PM

Kelly,

Got it and replied. :D

Ryan

jlogan9

05-17-2002, 02:43 PM

This might sound like a dumb question, but oh well...

Ryan, are you the one we should talk to if we want to buy parts from you guys. I have been looking at your list online, and it is really impressive for a dealer.

Also, if we find the parts cheaper (excluding group buys etc) do you do a price match? Just thought I would throw that one in there

I look forward to getting some MODS :D

Jeff

Irvine Subaru

05-17-2002, 06:45 PM

I'm the one that you'd want to talk to. I run our performance/motorsports division.
Shoot me an e-mail.

Ryan
scoobyparts@hotmail.com

SC WRX

06-12-2002, 11:30 AM

Just test-drove and signed the papers on a WRB WRX wagon last night. Did 99% of the negotiating over the phone with Desiree (the owner) Monday and Tuesday, so all the time actually spent at the dealership was taking care of formalities. Got what I consider an excellent price (no, it was not below dealer invoice), and they are installing my STI suspension. They even gave me a Lexus SC 400 (albeit a 1992) for a loaner until they deliver my wagon tomorrow or Friday. They have THE friendliest dealership I've ever been to in my life. Desiree and Jeremy were great, and no attempts to push extended warranties, paint protection, etc., at the close. I highly recommend them to anyone considering a Subaru!

SC WRX

06-14-2002, 06:07 PM

Just took delivery at my office this afternoon. The car looks awesome. All of my stock suspension parts were in the back as promised. I already know this is going to be the longest 1000 miles I've ever driven. Once again, two thumbs up for Irvine Subaru!:D

Irvine Subaru

06-20-2002, 08:30 PM

Thank you very much.

This is Ryan. I co-ordinated your suspension with Desiree. If there is anything else we can do for you or questions we can answer please don't hesitate to pick up the phone.

Ryan

Drews_WRX

06-21-2002, 10:21 PM

Yes they do. I drove 50 some miles to get my WRX on Thurday. I wanted to ask them what modifications MAINTAIN the factory warranty.

Is it OK to put a cat-back exhaust on? Also, would you guys be able to install my turbo timer and 3 gauges on the A-piller?

Andrew

jsmithjr732

06-22-2002, 03:03 AM

I second their sales/service. It was the best car-buying experience I've ever had. It's also the first time I've KEPT the dealer plates on while awaiting my real plates!!

Thanks Desiree/Ryan/Jeremy. You have a VERY satisfied customer!

bobafett

06-22-2002, 10:40 PM

I went to Irvine first! Wish I woulda bought my WRX there...but they were trying to stiff me on the price at the time. They wouldn't go below MSRP. Oh well. Both our losses :\

jsmithjr732

06-23-2002, 12:57 AM

Originally posted by bobafett
I went to Irvine first! Wish I woulda bought my WRX there...but they were trying to stiff me on the price at the time. They wouldn't go below MSRP. Oh well. Both our losses :\
Hmm, that's weird. I went to a car website and they referred me to Desiree (Fleet Manager and Owner). I think it really helped that I was dealing with the owner. Everyone at the dealership (that I talked to) seemed to be like a family--not just fly-by-night salesman looking for a buck.

To each his own, I guess...

ObsidianRS

06-25-2002, 06:48 PM

Hey more SD peoples :)

I bought my RS from Desiree a few months back. It was a very nice dealership to work with and enjoyed the transaction. Definately worth the drive.

Rally1

07-01-2002, 01:49 PM

What i wanted in a dealer:

respect
the BEST price

that's it.

I didnt want convenience, or no haggle, I wanted to haggle!
So for those that buy cars the way I do, or did, then this review is for you. If you like zero confrontation, and to pay more than you should, no need to read on :) .

Sent two emails, one to each dealer asking for a quote on 2002 WRX. Irvine was $300 over invoice, Thousand Oaks $200 over.

Irvine was closer, I went there, test drove the car. It was looking good, looked like I would buy from them. But they would not budge from $300 over, and when I said I would pay $200 over they called that "silly". Strike one....

As I was standing in the parking lot of Irvine, trying to decide if I wanted to buy it, Russ from Thousand Oaks called. Turns out he actually wanted to sell a car! Phrases like "what can I do to win your business" as cheesy as they may sound, actually work!

Long story short, he actually made an effort, I guess Irvine Subaru sells to enough suckers at $500 over invoice to not bother with me, which is fine, I still got my car for $400 -under- invoce, from Thousand Oaks, and it was dilivered the next day.

Will everyone get $400 under, i doubt it, but it does mean you should be able to get $100 over with ease, and along with it buy from some one who wants to sell a car.

Assuming a dealer marks success as selling a car, Irvine did not succeed. No hard feelings, you just need to learn how to read a customer, some people you can bully, some you cant.....

cielo

07-01-2002, 02:42 PM

thanks for the post. i will soon visit various socal dealers. enjoy the car!

Rally1

07-01-2002, 08:16 PM

make sure you contact Russ over at Thousand Oaks, for a good deal, and great service.

see you on the street soon!

ImprezaWRXDriver

07-12-2002, 05:32 PM

Thousand Oaks is the place to go in SoCal. Make sure that when you go for service or want performance stuff, see Scott.

SC WRX

07-12-2002, 05:45 PM

I went to Irvine Subaru because when I checked online, Irvine had the WRX in the color and with the options I wanted, and Thousand Oaks didn't. I was very happy in dealing with Desiree at Irvine, and feel I got a very good deal. (Although not as good as Rally1s). I also leaned towards Irvine because I wanted the STi suspension installed by the dealer, and from what I read, Irvine had more of a performance rep than Thousand Oaks.

However, I hear nothing but good things about Thousand Oaks Subaru's sales and service, and I think we are fortunate in So Cal to have two top notch dealerships within the area (albeit, at entirely opposite ends of the area). Unfortunately, with the exception of Renick Subaru, there appears to be nothing but a bunch of crap in between.

Newbie Subie

07-12-2002, 05:51 PM

I went to Thousand Oaks too. Guess what I got a better deal at Big Valley Subaru in Van Nuys.

jlogan9

07-13-2002, 03:06 AM

big valley, really! That surprises me. I went there first and was very unimpressed. I next sent out a bunch of emails, and Thousand Oaks came up the best price. I didnt even email Irvine, that was too far. I am from TO, so it made it nice. I got $200 over invoice for their initial offer. I was so pleased I took it without a hassle. They even gave me a week to get better financing that what they were offering. They were offering something in the 7's, and I came back with 5.5 and they were good for you! They actually care about their customers not just making a buck!

duckboy

07-16-2002, 07:13 PM

i got a WRX out of the first shipment into the states and i went w/ irvine because they gave me a fair deal and tons of respect even though the car just came out (over 1 year ago). they even offered me an extremely low APR to cap off the deal but i declined because i don't like BofA and opted to go through my credit union.

in reality, a low price isn't always the catch-all. if you got a low APR as well then you got a good deal, if you didn't, you're paying more over the long term regardless of what your initial paying price is.

do the math. :)

duckboy

Newbie Subie

07-23-2002, 11:07 PM

Been out the whole week sorry for the no reply. I paid cash for my WRX wagon maybe thats the diff. They let me out the door with $150.00 over invoice and $750.00 more than anyone else would offer for my trade in (mustang). No one would even touch the deal they gave me. But I have heard that TO is a good dealership. But no complaints from me.

MoreHP

08-16-2002, 09:03 PM

San Francisco to LA to San Francisco

After meeting Ryan and the SPI Motorsports team at HIN in LA, there was no question who was going to get my business. These guys flat out love Subarus. I flew down from San Francisco on a Saturday to buy my car. Ryan, Dan, Desiree and Tom were amazing. They even drove me back to the airport that evening. SPI currently has my car, a 2003 Black WRX, and is completing a ton of mods. everything from the tires and wheels, to the suspension, exhaust, turbo, front mount intercooler, etc., etc. Even after I made a number of last minute (and certainly annoying) changes to the parts list, Ryan and team just kept providing kick ass customer service. Thanks for putting up with me guys! I can't wait to see the finished product! If you are anywhere in So. Cal, it is worth the trip to Irvine.

BJ
Quarter Mile Communications

Irvine Subaru

08-27-2002, 06:36 AM

Ben,

Just caught this. Thanks a lot for the great review. I'll call you tomorrow about your car.

Ryan

edit: I've got some good news too...

Everyone else in California... watch out for this thing when its done. ;)

SonicYellowWRX

08-28-2002, 09:27 PM

Yeah Desiree and Jeremy took good care of me when I bought my car. Gave me a pretty good deal too!:D Jeremy took me driving until I got used to driving a stick. Then when parents didnt feel I was capable of driving it home cuz freeway driving with no traffic is so difficult:rolleyes: Jeremy actually drove it home for me and Desiree followed. I have not begun to go all crazy with my car yet, so I wouldnt know how the service department is... but I'm sure its great too.

narcotix

09-05-2002, 02:51 AM

Gotta say that the service dept there is perhaps the most pleasant delaership I've ever dealt with. I got my ECu reflashed, and in the downtime that it was in the shop, had an upipe installed.

The best part? Richard, the service writer, covered my rental from the rental place across the street!! And I hadn't even asked about this...I was expecting to foot the bill on the rental...especially since I had made no mention of it when I dropped the car off! No moan, no bitch, just "Shouldn't be a problem!"

That, my friends, is how to run a business. Go and give them your money.

Jimmy

SC WRX

09-12-2002, 03:47 PM

Just got some simple service and warranty work done, as well as installation of my Kartboy bushings that had been sitting in my desk drawer for around 2 mos. (I know, I'm lazy), and their service was quick, and their response to my warranty issue was outstanding. Thanks to Don, Horatio, and Desiree for their response. I knew there was a reason why I made that long drive from West L.A. just to buy by WRX from them in the first place.:)

SonicYellowWRX

09-13-2002, 04:52 AM

FYI, paying with cash has no pull... they make MORE money on financing.

Anyways, TO has great prices. They had offered me the BEST price. However, they couldnt get me a Sonic Yellow. Desiree at Irvine had like 3 in stock and ready to go... and the price was VERY good! (though not the best) They are the leading dealership, so why would they need to go even less than they can sell it.

For the best deal... Thousand Oaks. For a great deal and better selection... Irvine.

aznmc16

09-27-2002, 08:11 AM

i was wondering how much you guys paid out the door from those two dealerships.. im looking to purchase a new car and a WRX seems to be the winner.

aznmc16

09-27-2002, 08:16 AM

also.. i've been reading that you people have been getting the 2002 WRX's for a few hundred under invoice.. how 'bout the 2003 WRX's??

WRXRay

09-30-2002, 02:41 PM

I picked up my 2003 Wagon 2 weeks ago for $500 over at TO. Fantastic dealership...

Kean

09-30-2002, 04:40 PM

Just picked my 2003 over @ Irvine. $23,800 out the door (+ tax & license) w/short throw shifter & spoiler. It was $600 hundred over invoice. Not the best deal but it was just down the street, brand new (still had tape on it),no haggle, and Desiree (and her team) were very nice. I didn't even get the typical pressure when I sat down to sign the ppwk. I simply told them that I didn't want the "paint protectant/ext warranty...etc" and they left me alone. Desiree was fair on my trade in as well. She even met the price that a private party had offered me. If you're good at haggling, it makes sense to get the best deal you can. In my case, it was really convinient to deal with Irvine and they had exactly what I wanted.

drees

10-23-2002, 03:34 AM

Since I've already posted something about this in another thread, I'll just link to it:

Picking up WRX Wagon Tomorrow! (http://forums.i-club.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=261830)

Chris Stein

11-08-2002, 09:05 PM

My 2.5RS-T quit while coming west on Rte 10 - down out of the mountains into the San Diego basin. Just started running on 2 cylinders.

I had made an appointment with Irvine Subaru for Monday in order to have some routine maintenance performed before heading back east.

When I called Irvine Subaru (I.S.) from the side of the road, they switched my appointment to today.

Seems like my TEC got confused 'cause once it was reprogrammed, the problem went away.

Bottom line, I.S. did everything in their power to accomodate me. Don Heck spent a bunch of time checking my car over.

And to top it off, they wouldn't take any money! Thanks to Don, Gil Mercado, and Albert Pereyra for taking what might have been an unfortunate experience and turning it into a good one!

Course I couldn't leave without spending at least some money, so I bought a set of brighter headlight bulbs.

These guys deserve our patronage. I plan to do as much mail order business with them as I can!

Chris

kmin

11-11-2002, 09:58 PM

hear hear.

irvine subaru is the best subaru dealer i've ever been to. good, knowledgeable, pleasant, and price-wise, pretty darn fair. two thumbs up. too bad i live in NJ. :lol:

Lemon007

11-14-2002, 09:01 PM

I haven't been to Irvine, but I've talked to them over the phone. Ryan seemed really pleasant.

I bought my car from TO about 10 months ago. Great place, and gave me the number I wanted from the start. All the dealerships from Irvine to Ventura were telling me no one would not be able to do it. From the invoice prices and everything, I'm still wondering if they made money off me... but I'm sure they did. :) I'd be happy to give them money so they can stay in business for a long time. (Just not too much money.)

I think it is great that there are two VERY good dealership in So. Cal. Hope they stay that way.

kmin

11-21-2002, 06:11 PM

All I have to say about Irvine Subaru is amen!

Was out there over the summer after a roadtrip from NJ. Have to say that they're the best Subaru dealer I've dealt with so far. They installed my kartboy shifter for me, and repaired a leaking water pump too. Great service, knowledgeable people, fair prices... if I ever buy a Subaru again, I know where I'm getting it from, Irvine rocks! :D

toecutter

11-27-2002, 03:25 AM

I actually bought 2 brand new WRX sedans from Bob Baker in El Cajon. The first time I had a problem with the car I got treated like dirt. They don't have enough qualified Subaru mechanics working there and they don't care about their "valued customers" I ended up going to Irvine Subaru and was very well taken care of. Well worth the drive from San Diego.Thanks Albert.

Irvine Subaru

11-27-2002, 01:35 PM

I missed this until now, but wanted to thank you guys so much. Its great when local customers tell us we're doing a good job, but when customers from further away tell us... it means a lot to us. Anyone can offer good customer service and assistance to a customer that is local and will be repeat, but we make sure we offer that to ANYONE. Regardless of where you're from or if you're coming back.

Thanks again guys.

Ryan
www.spimotorsports.com
www.irvinesubaru.com

WHTWRX

11-28-2002, 05:25 AM

Yep, Irvine is now the only dealer I'll take my wife's WRX wagon and my sedan to.

rdebow

12-18-2002, 05:31 PM

Irvine Subaru is the best.

I bought my WRX and it was the easiest purchase ever.

Their the only shop I will allow to do mods on my car that are above my ability.

Their work and clean and professional.

Ryan, always has time to answer questions and make recommendations.

Just got my car back from a turbo upgrade, running on stock boost and downpipe. It runs great.

Can't wait for the Ecutek to come out in my area so I can upgrade the fuel system and get it tuned.

Richard

protocol_droid

12-21-2002, 10:55 PM

I'll also add to that. I purchased my 03' sonic yellow from Irvine about a month ago. Great service comes from a great staff.

s2k2sti

01-12-2003, 10:07 PM

hmmm,

wow being a total newbie to subaru and all i am actually looking forward to doing business with this irvine dealership sometime in the future.

i currently own a honda s2000 and when i recently read the stats regarding the new sti i just cannot resist buying this car. hell i might even trade in my car to buy this car. But yeah finding a good dealership that will give you agood price is pretty hard but finding a dealership that gives you a good price and excellent service for your car, well thats just amazing.

chris

SR-71WRX

01-18-2003, 03:19 PM

I have a review on my experience at Irvine Subaru in the "vendors" review forum: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=3208140#post3208140

krnkimche2

03-24-2003, 06:45 AM

All I have to say is that this dealer was awsome!!! I got my car for under invoice without any trouble. I would recomend Irvine Subaru in California to anyone! I was in out and driving within an hour! GREAT DEALER!

Roo

03-28-2003, 01:10 AM

Ryan is AWESOME!!

Keep up the SERVICE, Ryan!!

:D Another VERY Satisfied Customer

:D Another happy Subaru:D

joshr

04-08-2003, 02:29 PM

under invoice? details!

bobbyT

04-09-2003, 03:55 AM

I'm interested too in how much under invoice. I understand there is $750 cash back, and/or 0% financing. What's the deal?

krnkimche2

04-21-2003, 05:50 AM

well i basically got the car for 2k under sticker

bobbyT

04-21-2003, 11:56 AM

OK, thanks. At this time I think I'll wait for the '04s to come in.

WR xplosive

05-22-2003, 02:52 PM

Great dealer, got mine in Feb. 2003 $3K under sticker and add'l $1,500 for my trade :cool:

cky211

06-27-2003, 01:39 AM

Ryan in parts hooked me up with a box to ship my Turbo back exhaust. What a nice guy!

Thanks Ryan!

-Scott

cky211

07-14-2003, 07:17 PM

Bump for a good dealer!

DeeezNuuuts83

07-18-2003, 07:46 PM

Is Irvine Subaru mod-friendly? And if they are, does it matter whether or not they installed the parts?

handyyguy2002

07-28-2003, 08:35 PM

Are you sure you guys are talking about the Irvine Subaru on Rockfield? I have never dealt with a more incompetent dealership in my life!!! In short…. I wish I had never bought my WRX from them! The purchase was fine, once I did not have to deal with their BS sales department. The real problems started with the Parts department. Then again, I had not seen the worst of Irvine Subaru!!! My experience with the Service department goes beyond proper words. I have many “colorful metaphors” for their Service department.

I am more than willing to elaborate!
:furious:

WagonMonster

07-28-2003, 09:32 PM

Originally posted by handyyguy2002
Are you sure you guys are talking about the Irvine Subaru on Rockfield? I have never dealt with a more incompetent dealership in my life!!! In short…. I wish I had never bought my WRX from them! The purchase was fine, once I did not have to deal with their BS sales department. The real problems started with the Parts department. Then again, I had not seen the worst of Irvine Subaru!!! My experience with the Service department goes beyond proper words. I have many “colorful metaphors” for their Service department.

I am more than willing to elaborate!
:furious:

Should I Troll-Ban you now, or later?

handyyguy2002

07-28-2003, 10:49 PM

WagonMonster –
See my reply from this similar comment on the other forum…..

“Okay, so your profile states your birthday, car year, car model and car color. Your location is “Everybody Loves KICKBALL!” I am not too sure where that is located. If you are going to trash me, at least be sure you are not guilty of the same!!”

** I will reply only to the other forum from here on out regarding this subject. **

LinuxGuy

08-02-2003, 11:05 AM

Originally posted by WagonMonster

Should I Troll-Ban you now, or later?

How is he trolling? Hes writing a review of how his experience went at Irvine.

oren

08-07-2003, 04:32 PM

I've also found Irvine Subaru's service department to be completely incompetent in customer relations. I've been there three times and always left annoyed.

Yesterday I called in and asked if I could bring in my car for an oil change and get a drop off at work which is a mile away from Irvine Subaru. They said yes and I asked what time and was told 7am. I bring in my car at 7am and the service guy tells me after taking my car to the back that I can't get a ride til 7:30. Ok, I miss a half hour of work. At 7:30, I'm told that my car is in the wash and will be ready in five min and the dropoff guy takes someone else instead of me. At 8, I finally get my car and no apologies or anything from those bums. They really don't care about their customers who bought the cars there which is a shame since I've had no issues with the sales there.

I've had two other incidents there as well. Irvine Subaru is a great place to buy a car but don't bother bringing a car in for service.

pittspilot

09-21-2003, 09:56 PM

My Dad is seriously considering an STI or an EVO. Went into Irvine to take a look see. Same dealer where I had an awesome experience buying my WRX wagon.

Salesman was rude, condescending, arrogant, and an idiot. Sorry bud, maybe I don't know anything about cars, since I think the EVO compares favorably with the STI. And no test drive till you buy, and pay? 'Fraid not, we need to back to back it with the EVO. And $5000 over sticker? Irvine Mitsui has 10 EVO's on the lot with no markup.

I like that STI, but was very disappointed with the treatment we recieved. Man, Mitsubishi blew you guys away in service. Renick possibly?

LinuxGuy

09-22-2003, 02:04 PM

Hey if your dad is looking for an STI without the bull**** of putting up with a dealer, you may want to check out a website called www.carsdirect.com you basically buy the car online, there offering the STI in the color combo you want for MSRP.

turbothisgirl

09-23-2003, 06:18 PM

You can also try South Coast Subaru in Costa Mesa. I don't know - I got mine from Irvine but I wasn't especially pleased with them my first trip in. I guess I'm mixed on both - but the people were definitely nicer at SC, and since they are still fairly new and trying to make a name for themselves they'll try harder. Irvine just beat them to the punch and I wound up buying my car (thru Irvine) before realizing what was going on. :(

TurboBeast

09-24-2003, 10:15 PM

Another vote for carsdirect.com. Got mine for about 3k below msrp w/ a few options. Not STi though.

dorkusmaximus

10-07-2003, 04:18 PM

I had a good experience at South Coast. I'd give them a try.

hyp36rmax

10-07-2003, 06:29 PM

who were you dealing with? im actually a devoted irvine subaru shopper, only because i deal with only the sales manager\ her son\ and sometimes carlos (hahaha) in regards to car dealerships , if your looking for a deal and a fair treatment goto the lead, they are the ones who can make a difference, i can agree there are some people in all dealerships who show arrogance and the like, i admit irvine has a couple, but it doesnt mean them as a whole, i actually feel welcomed at their dealership. but if all your looking for is a deal, online is the way to go! in my experiences of buying a car i never have dealt with haggling on a serious note when i step into a dealership, i actually bought both my cars through desiree via internet and she happens to be the manager :D , shes cool guys :banana:

JDMSubaru

11-14-2003, 07:24 PM

Originally posted by pittspilot
Salesman was rude, condescending, arrogant, and an idiot. Sorry bud, maybe I don't know anything about cars, since I think the EVO compares favorably with the STI. And no test drive till you buy, and pay? 'Fraid not, we need to back to back it with the EVO. And $5000 over sticker? Irvine Mitsui has 10 EVO's on the lot with no markup.

Yeah talk about dumb salespeople. I was their with a friend that already owns an EVO and also wanted to buy an STi (he's rich).

Anyhow the salesman (naturally) tried to play up the STi the best he could. At the same time he put down my friend's car. The way he did it was stupid but ultimately hilarious.

He said yeah well the STi is made in Japan, the EVO is made in the U.S. It was so hard for me to keep composure after hearing this. My friend just swallowed it up and didn't make a face. Too funny and too ignorant. Hell of a way to make a sale too, heh.

JDMSubaru

11-14-2003, 07:54 PM

Originally posted by oren
I've also found Irvine Subaru's service department to be completely incompetent in customer relations. I've been there three times and always left annoyed.

Yesterday I called in and asked if I could bring in my car for an oil change and get a drop off at work which is a mile away from Irvine Subaru. They said yes and I asked what time and was told 7am. I bring in my car at 7am and the service guy tells me after taking my car to the back that I can't get a ride til 7:30. Ok, I miss a half hour of work. At 7:30, I'm told that my car is in the wash and will be ready in five min and the dropoff guy takes someone else instead of me. At 8, I finally get my car and no apologies or anything from those bums. They really don't care about their customers who bought the cars there which is a shame since I've had no issues with the sales there.

I've had two other incidents there as well. Irvine Subaru is a great place to buy a car but don't bother bringing a car in for service.

I would've done your oil change for you for $15, and done it instantly, more professionally, and for less!

Next time you need an oil change bring it to my house w/ $15 cash and I'll do it for you and in front of you. I'll dispose of the oil for you too (of course). Dealers will cut corners and do sloppy work to get the job done quicker. I know of some nightmares where my friend worked at a garage and they poured 15w50 into a car that called for 5w30!!!

Another time at my friend's garage they ran out of 5w30 for one car, they poured 3 quarts in and needed 2 more to finish the job so they poured straight 30 weight in! You had better hope the dealers don't mix and match oul when they are low.

gswrx

11-15-2003, 12:05 PM

You guys should try south coast subaru. Look for Ferdie, he always try to get me a good price. Hes the performance parts manager there, but he will also try and get me hooked up with service and genuine subaru parts. Hes the guy to talk to. Their service tech are also really fast and they always have shuttle service.
G

totoherbs

11-15-2003, 12:10 PM

Originally posted by pittspilot
My Dad is seriously considering an STI or an EVO. Went into Irvine to take a look see. Same dealer where I had an awesome experience buying my WRX wagon.

Salesman was rude, condescending, arrogant, and an idiot. Sorry bud, maybe I don't know anything about cars, since I think the EVO compares favorably with the STI. And no test drive till you buy, and pay? 'Fraid not, we need to back to back it with the EVO. And $5000 over sticker? Irvine Mitsui has 10 EVO's on the lot with no markup.

I like that STI, but was very disappointed with the treatment we recieved. Man, Mitsubishi blew you guys away in service. Renick possibly?

Woooh what a 180. Last time I was there pre sti, we were laughing at the evos 10k mark up.

HB_Dad

01-07-2004, 03:17 AM

I'm a 3 time Subaru owner, two of them are from Irvine Subaru. My experience is always good and I get nothing but the best deal from them. In fact, I've sent 3 of my co-workers down there and they too are now Subaru owners. Needless to say, most people know a good thing when they see it. If you like talking Subaru (as i do), then you are in for some really interesting conversations there! Hell, my daughters love going there with me (and not for the free popcorn either!) and hanging out with the staff! They make my entire family feel right at home, and i can't think of any other place to buy my cars! :)

Scav1180

03-10-2004, 08:50 PM

Any dealers thats willing to give a real good pricing on 2 STI's..

There will be maybe 3 all together but 2 is for sure right now...

Any recommendations on certain dealers?

sleeperrex

04-02-2004, 06:44 PM

Experience i had today at irvine subaru.

Well for people that don't know they have gone through some changes with their aftermarket performance division (spi). Anyways i had been going their for the last 2 years while living in san diego. Have had pretty much all my work done their including the 30k service which was about 400. They even put on my boost controller, tein flex, pde up and downpipe and some other things.

For whatever reason i have had a lot of problems with my tein since i got it installed. 3 times i've gone because the wires had wrapped around the motors and my edfc was returning an error code. I've even had a strange popping sound when i turn the wheel. No big deal however because they have always been good about fixing the problem.

However, today i found out about their new policy and their feelings towards aftermarket accessories (even if you bought the parts through spi and had them install it).

When i went to get my keys i had a bill for 40$. I was kind of suprised because i have not ever been charged with the problems i've had with the tein flex. The guy told me it was because they went ahead and tightened all the bolts down on the suspension to get rid of the popping sound that they could not reproduce. I had told him that i had never been charged before and he got real defensive. He went on with the whole thing about how subaru does not warranty aftermarket parts. I told him that you guys installed it and this is the first time i've gotten charged for a recurring problem that they cannot seem to diagnose. You could tell he was getting ticked at this point (sighing and sheeshing). I then brought up spi and he just said fine and walked back into the store to right me up a new receipt.
The whole time i was calm and was going to pay the 40dollars but i just wanted to find out why things had changed. His attitude was very defensive. It's like he has got the job of being ....head to all the people that have aftermarket parts on their cars. Kind of reminds of a collecting agency attitude when they are trying to collect a debt.

I should have known their was going to be a problem when i went in and their was a new service manager writing up my request. Don't remember his name but it was a white guy with short blond hair and a gold necklace. Albert, Richard, and Donny have been great but i'll be taking my car elsewhere now. Probably go try SCS.

sleeperrex

04-06-2004, 11:38 PM

Just wanted to give an update.

I heard from Desiree today. She was very concerned about my problem and wanted to find out what had happened. I've got to say i was really surprised to hear from them. It just shows you how much they do care about customer service.

After talking to Desiree, i really feel they want my business back.

It's times like this that you really know how good a business is. Now i know why i chose to bring my car their. Even though spi is no longer their, they still have great and knowledgable people. I'm happy to say that i don't have to take my car anywhere else. My car will still be taken care of by Irvine :banana: .

DaRealGMan

04-11-2004, 01:55 AM

Just took delivery of my new '04 WRX from Irvine Subaru and I can't say enough about the excellent buying experiance I had. Dealing directly with Desiree, she treated me like we've known each other for years. She went out of her way to accomadate my financing needs and even with my bad credit, had me approved when I thought nobody could.

I know now why Irvine Subaru is one of the leading dealerships. Their customer service is top notch and their employees proved very knowlegeable in every aspect of the products they sell. I am definately a return customer!

Now..... waiting for car's break-in period is driving me nuts!

HB_Dad

04-11-2004, 02:16 AM

If Subaru Of America ever gets their butts in gear and releases the damn thing, Desi will DEFINETELY be selling me that long-awaited 7-seater (If I don't give in for the '05 H-6 Outback first!)! This dealership really can't be beat! Congratulations on the new car!!! What did you get? :D

HB_Dad

04-11-2004, 02:22 AM

Irvine Subaru has NEVER let me down!! They are the bet hands down!! :D

HB_Dad

04-11-2004, 02:24 AM

Irvine Subaru is the best hands own!! Desi, their sales manager (I think?), is GREAT!!

sigma pi

04-13-2004, 04:40 AM

Originally posted by HB_Dad
Irvine Subaru has NEVER let me down!! They are the bet hands down!! :D

:lol: best is what he means:lol:

blame_others

04-13-2004, 11:09 PM

People p/o'ed about service at dealers have to remember that if the customers B/S gets by the dealer people, then the dealer has to face the manufacture. Face it, the manufacture knows what makes this brake. If the dealer lets the customer walk, for something they "know" they screwed up, then the manufacture will take it out on the dealer. After a few "questionable claims" from the dealer to the manufacture on lame warranty claims the manufacture will "BILL" the dealer. With that, the dealer will have to let the customers know the hard truth. That is... It is a mechine, not a toy, or appliance. The customer does need to take ownership of their cars. Being an owner makes you responsible for things you altered, doesn't it.

DaRealGMan

04-14-2004, 12:54 AM

Originally posted by HB_Dad
Irvine Subaru is the best hands own!! Desi, their sales manager (I think?), is GREAT!!

She's the General Manager.

Hikaru

10-30-2004, 05:02 AM

Just picked up an '05 WRX today from Irvine Subaru located in Southern California. The sole reason I chose to deal with this particular dealership was because of the reviews on this forum and I-Club in regard to this dealership.

I would like to add that what I read in the reviews were true, that I was very satisfied with the level of customer service I received at this dealership. At no point was I pressured, had to haggle prices, or any other kind of crap that is common at a typical dealership. In fact they even let me leave while they were installing a short throw shifter... the salesman, Carlos Z let me leave the dealership witout hassle to burn time elsewhere while they were installing the part, performing the PDI and Detailing the car, all before I signed any sales contract.

I ended up finding a car in their inventory that had no options, only 4 miles on the ODO and was very happy to find what I was looking for. If you are in Southern California give Irvine Subaru a try, you shouldn't be dissapointed. Desiree is very communicable and is the GM of the dealership.

b4437

10-30-2004, 05:14 AM

they sure is great!that's where i got my car. :banana:

Wzcb08

10-31-2004, 07:33 AM

Yup I was another San Diego person that went all the way up there for the best pricing.

1STPSTI

10-31-2004, 02:42 PM

I'm just outside of Sacramento in Norcal and Irvine Subaru, specifically Tom Fukunaga was reccomended to me through a member here. I've been looking into an 05 STI for a while now and thus far I had not yet felt comfortable with any of the local dealerships. One call to Tom and I was ready to buy a 1 way ticket to Irvine Subaru to buy a car from him. There was absolutley no haggling or negociating, I told him my specifics, what I was looking for and what prices I've been getting locally. He discussed some figures with his manager and called me back with by far the best price I've been given and one of the best I've heard about here on the forums! I havent yet committed to Tom yet because I want to give another local dealership one last chance to "earn" by business rather than goin to L.A from where I am. However if the local dealer doesnt match Toms deal and candor (unlikely) I will buy that 1 way ticket to L.A!

Hikaru

11-01-2004, 06:41 AM

1STPSTI, the downside to living up there is that you won't be able to take advantage of their "lifetime" oil change service... exclusive to that dealer as far as I was told.

My friends can't believe :eek: it when I tell them that.

Yom

11-03-2004, 09:33 PM

6 months ago, they gave me the best price around. I'm didn't drive as far as sd but it was over 70 miles. Desiree helped me w/ financing, price, and options thru 3 emails & 2 phone calls. She even called me back a couple of times to tell me on the status of the car. I only spent 1 hour at the dealership...instead of 5. Great experience

team_orion

11-08-2004, 01:53 PM

Hikaru

11-08-2004, 02:52 PM

I was driving home from work when a guy in an STi pulls alongside me at the light and told me that he got his at Irvine subaru too. We both agreed they had great service there, then the light turned green and we parted ways.

03BluRex

11-08-2004, 10:37 PM

I looking to purchase an 05 Sti in a couple of months and would like to purchase from Irvine Subaru(I live 15 min. from them) Would anyone care to post the prices they got? I stopped by but did not bother haggling yet as I wasn't quite ready to buy but they gave me an estimate of MSRP. I was hoping they could do better when the time came to buy.

their price on '05 STi's are $400 over invoice, that is what Desiree gave me when I traded my WRX for a Legacy GT limited. I had a great experience when I bought my LGT, spent only an hour at the dealership and she got me a good rate on my financing

SWRX

11-09-2004, 02:07 PM

Deseree is awesome!...great to deal with...i got a wrx and my friend got a STi from her a week apart and I got almost 2g's off of MSRP due to incentives and additional savings and stuff...and i got 2.9% financing for 3 years. bought my 04 wrx early this year :D

stirules

11-30-2004, 06:54 PM

I went to Irvine Subaru and WOW what a difference. Its was a complete contrast compared to my experience at Big Valley Subaru in Van Nuys. Desirée was able to give me $400 below invoice for the WRX and did not waste any of my time BSing with the price or treated me like a moron who don't know the value of a dollar. The pricing was quick and direct as she did not disappear for 15 minutes to speak to their "manager" like many salespeople do (even though we all know they are just kicking it in the back sipping on coffee). She was able to inform me of a better and cheaper payment option (60 months at 4.59% with $1250 rebate instead of the promotional 2.9% with no $1250 rebate I was thinking of) which saved me even more money. She even stayed late waiting for me to pick up the car because I got stuck in traffic and also got lost coming late at night that same day. Major props also goes to another Irvine Subaru employee Carlos who was very knowlegable about the car and showed me every single features and precautions I need to take with the car instead of rushing me out the door after the car has been sold to me. I definitely will do business with them again.

409Industries

12-01-2004, 02:59 PM

Agreed.

Negotiations with Desi and Irvine Subaru in general were awesome. I would definately reccomend them to anyone that is seriously or even considering purchasing a new or used subaru. There were no hassles at all, they took my trade-in for a fair price. Within a few days i was in my STi.

Desi was extremely friendly and got me an insane deal on my 04 STi, her numbers were straight foreward and there wasnt any tangent crap that i had to deal with. Basically went in there told her what i wanted, and she got the best deal possible.

Thank you Desi and Irvine Subaru. You guys rock.

P.S. Just as said above, carlos is super cool, he asked ME if i had any questions about the car. And was very willing to explain all the features... even the parking lights switch :D

-Aaron E.

mtnbikeracer

12-10-2004, 02:27 AM

I also agree.

Bought my WRX on 10/11/2004 from Carlos the internet/fleet manager@ Irvine Subaru. I shopped for a WRX for about 4 months on and off, when I called Irvine and spoke with Carlos, he quoted me the lowest price out of 3 other dealerships that I visited. And, this was on the phone $22,970. I was sold, so I went in to sign the papers. When I got to the dealership, he didn't BS me. He showed me all the figures, what discounts and rebates I was getting and even gave 1.9% apr...
I went in for service today... and Carlos remembered me, by name. Irvine Subaru has this deal if you purchase a car from them, you get a free oil change, every other oil change. That's excellent customer service. Carlos also, gave me complimentary tickets to the LA Auto Show in January. I would highly recommend Irvine Subaru to by your Subaru and definately recommend Carlos as the salesperson. :disco:

1SIKWRX4U2NV

12-10-2004, 04:24 AM

if you're experience with irvine subaru was good, i don't wanna know how bad the other place was good. :(

br0kyn

12-19-2004, 07:01 AM

I'm not saying Irvine is GREAT... but I've been to Renicks, Timmons, South Coast and finally I bought my car from Irvine.

RallyImprezive

01-11-2005, 12:48 PM

I also felt that Irvine Subaru is just "good." I have a had a few stupid issues with the service dept. that could have been avoided. I just recently bought my car there also, so we will see how service goes on a new car.

Andy

illt3ck

02-20-2005, 10:51 PM

To say I expected a lot out of Irvine is an understatement.

For as much as this dealership is talked up I was looking forward to visiting them today. I had been working with two dealerships local (San Diego), and decided to give Irvine a try. I drove the 1hr 15mins in the rain to see what kind of deal they could offer me. I didn't even get to step out of my car before a salesperson was at my door ... kind of annoying but at least they were attentive. I drove the Legacy 2.5gt Sedan and WRX Sedan back to back to make up my mind and decided to deal on the Legacy.

Before any prices were discussed the salesperson (and sales manager) refused to deal with me without filling out a credit application. Sure, I can understand they want to qualify me as a buyer ... but refusing to give me a starting point before making a hard inquiry on my credit is absolutely ludicrous. So I spoke to the manager "Mike" who was extremely combative and only wanted to argue with me. After a couple minutes back & forth he finally folded, but this should have been a non-issue. Next he would not budge on $200 over invoice at all. So I figured I can work with that, lets go to the trade-in.

I drive a 2004 Mazda 3 5dr S which has a trade in value of mid $15k and I owe $16k on it. Dealer appraisal, $13,000 :lol:

I realize there is depreciation involved but if I traded in the car at that price I'd have to call the cops before I left because they would have stolen it from me! :eek:

This salesperson / sales manager tried every trick in the book.

1. The 4 box method "how much do you want your payments to be?"
2. The sit customer in lobby alone for extended periods of time
3. The a55h0le sales manager
4. The back & forth between sales person and sales manager.
5. The extreme lowball trade-in value
6. The kbb & nada are not accurate values trick

Etc. Etc.

In the end the sales manager would not move anything above $13,500 even when I offered to put $500 cash down if they could come within $1000 of what I owed on the car. Finally after 1 1/2 hrs the manager said, " $13,500 take it or leave it", so I left it and drove home. None of what I was asking was out of the question, and has been agreed to in car deals in the past. This is definitely not my first new car purchase so I know what I'm dealing with.

All in all I won :) I saw the dealer invoice and noted the holdback on the deal, as well as how long the car has been on the lot. Not only this, my credit wasn't pulled and I drove back home after we couldn't come to agreement.

So next week I will go back to dealing over e-mail exclusively until my price point is met.

I would not recommend Irvine Subaru to anyone I know. Who cares what they placed in the nation for subaru sales.

I was not impressed to say the least

Irvine Subaru in Lake Forest, CA = thumbs down

Eyeflyistheeye

02-21-2005, 02:26 AM

I dealed directly with the owner, Desiree, when I bought my LGT. My experience with her was good, but I understand how you feel about some of the salesmen- they were giving me funny looks while I was looking around, waiting to pick up my car.

Perhaps they were mad that they didn't have a chance to rip me off :lol:

You might want to try e-mailing Debbie at Ontario, Jim at Riverside and Geno at Thousand Oaks.

illt3ck

02-21-2005, 02:32 AM

akinasdevil

02-21-2005, 08:19 PM

Wow that sucks, I emailed Desiree when I bought my04 STi and dealt with her son Jeremy and couldn't have had a better experience and got a good deal.

I just went to Big Valley Subaru on Saturday to buy and 05 Forester with my friend and they started with some of the tricks you listed with the 4 boxes and all. Basically I had to tell them to make me an offer or we were leaving. As soon as I did that one of the head managers came out, we haggled for about 10 minutes and we got her a Silver 05 Forester Premium 5 speed for 100 over invoice and basically got the 600 bucks worth of options that were on the car for free, plus on top of that there was a $2000 rebate on the car. Guess it's all in the approach, how serious you are about buying the car and how badly they want to sell you a car. I have a feeling they really don't move the 5 speed Foresters so they were willing to deal.

awdG35killer

02-23-2005, 04:07 AM

illt3ck

02-28-2005, 01:48 PM

did they pull out the" Dr. bob" closer on you man? old white hair guy that smells? i really pissed him off when i tried to get my bro to buy a wrx, but the price they caome up with was close to that of my LGT, and he kept trying to get me to Lease it too.

i really wanna go there again on my day off to start it up again with him :lol:

I spoke with Desiree and she was more interested in making excuses for her employees than just apologizing for the horrible experience I had at her dealership. I wanted to give her another chance and was just about to Lake Forest on I-5 when John Studebaker from Thousand Oaks called and offered me a deal that I just couldn't pass up. So I ended up driving 4hrs in traffic to everything promised by John & more. I was helped out by Zeb (internet sales) and Dave (sales manager). This had to be my single best dealership experience ever. I would recommend anyone that finds a car they like to talk to John & Zeb over at Thousand Oaks, it will definitely be worth your while.

kg2128

03-01-2005, 12:51 AM

Yea I dealt with Jeremy the fleet manager(desiree's son). The price on the wrx was agreed upon over the phone 22,500. So we didn't haggle on that. They tried to make all their money on the trade in, a 2002 honda accord. It was in an accident but it was fixed properly by a bodyshop. Edmunds said around 12,800 for trade in. They offered 11. But we ended up accepting 11,500 because the bodyshop was a shady one that did not do a great job(recommended by the insurance company). If it wasnt for that we probably would have demanded 12 or 12.5k. The experience was satisfactory(nothing great, nothing bad) it did take a long time though. If I were to buy another subaru I would probably considering going back there again, I got some free oil changes also.

kg2128

03-04-2005, 05:18 PM

So I went down today to get my oil change at the dealer(Irvine Subaru), only because Im supposed to get free oil changes for the life of the car. Otherwise I would just go somewhere nearby. The first oil change I got at about 3700 miles was free and they washed the car and everything, I did wait like 2 hrs but I didn't make an appointment. Anyway this time I go in I made an appointment for 11:00 so I think ok I should be out of here in like 45 min. They take an hour and a half which was longer than expected but I was like watever. So im signing the form and apparently they have changed the policy for my "free oil changes." They are charging me tax on every free oil change, and I can only get one free oil change per 7500 miles. The first one was "complementary" so no tax on just the 1st one. Also no car wash this time either. When I bought the car from Jeremy it was simply "free oil changes for the life of the car." Its not a big deal I mean its just an oil change, but I'm just annoyed that they are weaseling out of it on only my 2nd one. I know other dealers who offer the same package start to flake out after a couple yrs, but they are doing it already. I guess its better than them just saying no more free oil changes ever though.

05 XT BLACK

03-05-2005, 06:07 PM

The oil changes are free to all Subaru customers who purchase there Subaru from us. This is somthing we do over and above any other dealers. Your Subaru manual state your oil changes need to be done every 7,500 miles.
The tax and hazard waste is due by the customer California law and industry standards. Please make a appointment since we are under construction making 15 new bays for faster service. We are not trying to get out of anything. I am sorry for the misunderstanding.
Desiree

Yom

03-06-2005, 07:26 PM

woohoo! I bought my subie there and I didn't know this!

So Desi this is your SN?

05 XT BLACK

03-06-2005, 09:07 PM

SN? What does this mean?

kg2128

03-07-2005, 02:45 AM

Oh didnt notice u replied in the thread. SN=screen name. I did make an appointment, but the 1:30 hr wait is not what i was disappointed in. Its just oil changes, and like I said before its better than nothing. I guess I should wait and see if 1 oil change per 7500 miles lasts till the life of the car. It's still pretty impressive then, Im just saying since most dealers cancel it after awhile with an excuse I was expecting atleast 1 or 2 yrs before any hassles would occur.

SMZ GSR

03-09-2005, 02:58 PM

kpalena

03-10-2005, 01:51 AM

Well, last night I picked up my 05 CGM WRX from Irvine. The whole process was incredibly easy and fast.

I definately recommend people going there and more so talking directly to Desiree. No BS on the price and no funny business in financing.

I love my new car :disco: (first scooby :D )

Congrats. I have over 265K on mine ('93). No...I mean NO maintence problems. Probably the finest machine to ever hit the road.

afro

03-10-2005, 08:19 PM

Irvine Sube is the best !

SWRX

03-22-2005, 11:34 AM

Irvine Subaru is great! Deseree and Carlos are awesome to deal with. You feel really comfortable walking into the dealership cuz it's super friendly serivce from the moment you are in there 'till u walk out! They gave my friend and I great prices white on STi and WRX's last year! Keep it up guys!

mtrklr

03-25-2005, 12:44 AM

I recently bought a WRX from them and was very pleased with them. It was the best car buying experience I have ever had. I would recommend them to anyone considering a new vehicle (or relatively new one)!

kg2128

03-27-2005, 07:50 AM

That wasn't the point of the thread but okay. Like I said I had no problems with purchasing the car everything went smoothly. It was just after where I was hassled. It's not the money that bothers me, oil changes aren't very expensive, it's the principle.

igalwrx

03-27-2005, 03:24 PM

I've heard nothing but good things from people who have purchased cars from Irvine.

However, there seems to be some serious problems within their service department in terms of treating customers who are, say, less than 30yrs old and drive WRX's/Sti's. I've had horrible treatment there, which seemed to me to be due to I'm young and own a WRX. I've since not gone there because it happened on at least 2 occasions with different people. Since I haven't been there in a year and a half, things might have changed.

ghibli99

07-13-2005, 06:29 PM

Reading some of these posts makes me feel like I dealt with a completely different dealership.

I just recently purchased an 05 STi from Desiree, and it was the smoothest experience possible. My trade-in KBB'd at about $11k, and I got about $10.7k, which is close... they didn't lowball me by thousands as some have pointed out, and she honestly tried to get me the most possible out of my trade-in.

While she was swamped on the day I came in, I still didn't feel like I was being ignored or anything. They provided complimentary drinks and had me in and out of there within about 1.5 hours. The car was pristine on delivery, and Jeremy provided a pretty exhaustive tour of all the car's features. He even gave pointers on how to use the DCCD correctly.

Irvine Subaru definitely gets a thumbs up from me.

Hikaru

07-16-2005, 03:49 PM

I bought both my WRX's and brought my friend down to get his WRX. I always dealt with Desiree only. Jeremy is also a very nice guy and very helpful as well. The only salesman I had experience with was Carlos Z and he is a good guy as well.

If there is any advice to give about buying from Irvine, it would be to deal directly with Desiree. She doesn't mess with you and is straight up with you, although she did ding me for the ad fee ($250) on my second WRX... hahaha..

Another notable feature about dealing with Desiree is that I had ran my credit at a mitsu dealer prior to contacting Irvine so I knew my credit rating, and I emailed her my credit rating and the car I wanted and she emailed me back a price, I shopped around the net prior to going to the dealership and couldn't find anything that beat it. I was expecting a price change when I arrived but Desiree kept the same price offered to me in an email... I consider that very good, considering how most dealerships operate..

Thumbs up for Irvine Subaru.

Hughesj04

07-19-2005, 04:58 PM

I swear some people just dont know how to buy a car. First that 15k you think your car was worth you probally found on kbb or some others that sale for around that. Ok then 13k from a dealer is well worth a mazda 3. I suprised it wasnt like 10k for it. THats just what its worth to a dealer.

With that said I delt with Desiree and her only and by the time I walked out of there she was offering me a job there. I got my car there and wanted to put in my two cents. Just one Tip go through fleet and they will give you numbers and they will earn the chance for your business and KNOW what you want before you get in there dont let them sell you on anything you should know the benifits of what your getting into and know how much it should cost you. that way if you know what your talking about there is no haggling involved.

Wouldnt you agree kg2???

Thats all i really wanted to say.

Jon

benolium

07-20-2005, 11:17 AM

After reading all of the posts about Irvine Subaru, I decited to give Desiree a chance to get me into a STI. I had a '05 Wrx, and call me crazy for trying to trade it in after only 10 months, and 8k miles...but the sti is NICE so I called to see what she could do. Just as expected, we agreed on a price over the phone, 200 below invoice.When I arrived there 4 hrs later- Everything was just as we agreed on the phone. I was very pleased. She got me the best price on the trade too.

This was the best experience I have ever had when buying a car. Jeremy is a nice kid, and informative on the new features on the STI vs. the Standard WRX. Mike -paperwork guy...don't think he is a finance manager per se- was also very nice and informative. No one was PUshy AT aLL about getting me to upgrade to extended warrantees, paint or fabric spray or anything else I didn't want.

Over all, the experience was a thumbs-up and the family-style of dealership was nice to see.
I would say do this:

1. Call Irvine Subaru
2. Talk to Desiree (General Manager)
3. Tell her what you want, and what your willing to pay
4. Agree on a price over the phone
5. Have your new car ready to go when you arrive to Pick-up!

nolanslv

08-25-2005, 01:43 PM

I too have had a great experience with Irvine Subaru. I dealt Strictly internet and email with Jeremy. Hands down the best deal I ever got with ut all the sales person crap! I got for about $100 over invoice. Jeremy bent over backwards to help me and gave me his personal Cell if I needed anything. 5 days before I was to Fly to LAX (i Live in Vegas) I call him and say I've got a problem. Wife and I decided that with the unreliable nature of HER car that we need to buy an Automatic so she could drive it as well. So Jeremy started searching other dealerships and found me the exact same car in an automatic in less than 24 hours!! Same options Minus the boost gauge. Gave me the same price too... ($1000 tranny option for free) They even arranged to have me shuttled from LAX to the dealership. I got there and Jeremy and Desiree were both GREAT to me.

I'm working with him now on seeing if I can get a Great deal on an 05 Forester. Will let you know what happens

+1 for Irvine Subaru. Never walk into a dealership to BUY... Always deal with fleet/internet sales for the best deal.

nolanslv

08-25-2005, 01:50 PM

^^^agreed^^^

slvrwrx04

09-02-2005, 06:51 AM

Nice car..i bought my last two cars at Irvine Subaru.

jascon

09-02-2005, 01:07 PM

How much did you get your WRX for? and what options if you dont mind me asking :)

HB_Dad

09-18-2005, 03:27 AM

I leased my first Subaru in the Bay Area at the delaership in South San Francisco. When my wife and I moved back to Orange County, I traded my lease in towards a new Outback at irvine Subaru. It was a GREAT experience. They had a nice guy working there named "Nick", but he has since departed. Actually, that Outback was destroyed in a car accident, so Irvine Subaru helped me get into an LL Bean Outback afterwards which I am still driving. Since then, I have been a loyal customer and know pretty much everyone there. Desi puts up with my frequent visits as I come to drool over the Tribecas. She treats my two young daughters well and my wife really likes her as well!

Desi already knows that when I get back on my feet (aka: new job), and I get my finances straightened back out, the first available Atlantic Blue Pearl fully loaded B9 Tribeca with grey interior will be claimed by me! Until then, I will continue to go there and drool... :lol:

john_tran

10-11-2005, 03:50 AM

Congrats!!! I was there on the 1st and got my car. How much did you get yours for because when I was there they had two 05's with all sorts of options for like 27,000 OTD.
Good job with going with Desiree too, I heard good things about her. I dealt with Dustin over the internet prior to going there.

nerdydorkus

11-10-2005, 02:12 AM

The day i went to buy a subaru i was determined to get it home that day. I went and a younger salesman came up to us and he was a horrible salesperson. He did not know anything about the car besides that it had 227hp, he did not even know how some controls worked inside the interior of the car. Even though i knew i was going to take a car home that day I did not tell them that, I told them I was not ready for a buy to see how well they would take it. He took the papers he was writing on and he CUMBLED THEM UP IN FRONT OF ME. This is stupid on his part. After we left we went to South Coast Subaru and bought a wrx. The sales person there knew even less about subarus but he was nicer, and we got a descent deal on the car. If that kid wasn't so rude I probably would of bought it there.

BigMikeLV

11-10-2005, 01:50 PM

I would say do this:

1. Call Irvine Subaru
2. Talk to Desiree (General Manager)
3. Tell her what you want, and what your willing to pay
4. Agree on a price over the phone
5. Have your new car ready to go when you arrive to Pick-up!

I would add Talk to Jeremy or Desiree... Either will get you the best deal. :disco:

littlewhitewagon

01-20-2006, 01:17 AM

Got there at about 6:30, left with the car by 7:45. Got the car for a great price...PM me and ask... Dustin did a great job , Desi provided comedy with the family. Only snagle was that I forgot the insurance paperwork and ended up having to get the binder, UGH! The car had some smudges on it since they just took the plastic off of it, but they will do a complete detail when I take it back and debadge it as well. The car was completely untouched as they promised with only 4 miles on the odometer.

john_tran

01-20-2006, 04:41 AM

congrats!! I got my car there too! Oddly enough, with only four miles on the odometer as well.. and Dustin helped me out too.. enjoy your Subaru!!

littlewhitewagon

02-08-2006, 07:37 PM

i took the car back to get it debadged and they did a great job with it and the detail was nice. for some reason, there are still smudges on the hood...back i go. let's see how this goes.

mtnbikeracer

02-16-2006, 05:00 AM

Irvine Subaru sales dept rocks, but service dept sucks...

littlewhitewagon

02-17-2006, 12:49 AM

yeah, its almost time for the first oil change...and need to get those smudges off... lets see how this goes.

racekar

03-05-2006, 11:27 AM

Just wanted you all to know that DUstin in internet sales hooked up me up with new sub.

300 below invoice

ILSMKU2

04-07-2006, 04:05 PM

I like Franks now.

ILSMKU2

04-07-2006, 04:09 PM

.................

ILSMKU2

04-07-2006, 04:13 PM

SALES MIGHT BE "OK", BUT SERVICE IS HORRIABLE! I dare you to put a mod on your car and come in with the slighest issue. I promise they will say your mod caused it.

AC went out, they said my DP caused it. RIGHT.

My 1st gear would grid, they said I raced my car! and wanted me to sign something saying I would pay 900 bucks to fix it while still in warranty! Took it elsewhere and all I needed was some tranny fluid!

YOUR ALL NUCKING FUTZ!

HB_Dad

04-30-2006, 03:27 AM

YOUR ALL CRAZY! FRANKS SERVICE SUCKS! They cracked my buddys body kit changing the oil, they changed my valve cover seals and didnt do it right, they will sell your mods, but the second you have ANY issues they blame you, shove some bullentin in your face or whatever! My AC went out and they said my DP caused it....RIGHT!

NORMS ALL THE WAY! ITS WORTH THE DRIVE! GO EDDIE, GO OSCAR!!!! WOOT FOR NORMS!

YOU NOOBS!

Hey there,

I'm sorry to hear about your problems if they are in fact true. Given MY experiences there, I'm inclined to say that you are either exaggerating things a bit or are simply slinging mud for other unexplained personal reasons.

If they are shoving any bulletins in your face, and your vehicle is modded out, chances are that bulletin's the one about abusive driving. Lets face it, that most often occurs in modded vehicles as the only people who mod the hell out of their vehicle are the ones who like to drive with a lead foot and drive borderline recklessly. Now I'm not suggesting this about you personally, but I am just saying that their assumption in this type of situation is usually not far from the truth. Either way, good luck to you wherever you go as we are all part of this Subaru family in one form or another.

Personally, I wouldn't bring my Subaru anywhere else (and haven't) for my services and I am a loyal car buyer from Irvine Subaru as well. They time and time again bend over backwards to help me out whether it is service or in buying a new car. In fact, I am buying a Tribeca there right now.

Take care!

HB_Dad

04-30-2006, 03:32 AM

FRANKS IS HORRIABLE! SALES MIGHT BE "OK", but wait till you do ONE thing to your CAR. They sold me 2K worth of aftermarket, covered anything at first, then one day, BAM! they turned on me and COUNTLESS others. ITs always ABUSE or your exhaust caused your seat to break. CRAP like that.

Funny, Irvine Subaru has constantly went above and beyond the call of duty in giving me top-notch service and respect. This goes from sales to service.

I'm pretty sure there's more to their side of the story than your actually telling... :rolleyes:

djcrapilicious

05-07-2006, 03:47 AM

My big complaint about Irvine Subaru is that it takes forever for them to get anything done. I dropped my car off last Tuesday with tranny problems and they're not going to be done till this coming up Wednesday or Thursday.

littlewhitewagon

05-12-2006, 02:53 PM

Ok, reporting back. They detailed the car again and the smudges disappeared for a while. Then after about 5-6 car washes, the smudges on the hood are back. I called Rich and asked him how the warranty process works and he said " you have to wait 6 weeks for the rep to come in order to start the claim process". And they requested that I bring the car in to see the smudges again...like they changed from when I took delivery. I live about 80 miles away from the dealer and went there because Dustin in sales was outstanding.
Should I call SOA and talk with them about this??

EBWRC#1

06-30-2006, 06:05 PM

Rich has to leave the dealership...he is not helpful at all!

littlewhitewagon

07-03-2006, 12:57 AM

it was a combination of Rich and Frank. It doesn't even matter any more. I got hit by a tire on the freeway and the hood got repainted along with a new windshield.

i would say that they may be friendly to some people and not to others. i don't know if it helps that i am a young asian guy who calls them out on every BS excuse or story they make up. next time i go in, i'm bringing a camera so everyone can see how they are.

ILSMKU2

08-01-2006, 07:37 PM

Funny, Irvine Subaru has constantly went above and beyond the call of duty in giving me top-notch service and respect. This goes from sales to service.

I'm pretty sure there's more to their side of the story than your actually telling... :rolleyes:

:rolleyes:

Desi and Rusty ROCK, Chris the mechanic rock. Rich is ok. Frank is cool The rest of Franks is pretty cool too.

Jawknee5

08-12-2006, 01:23 AM

Hey there,

If they are shoving any bulletins in your face, and your vehicle is modded out, chances are that bulletin's the one about abusive driving. Lets face it, that most often occurs in modded vehicles as the only people who mod the hell out of their vehicle are the ones who like to drive with a lead foot and drive borderline recklessly.

But aren't Subbies meant to be driven hard? Why would you but in a 300hp 330 torque turbo charge awd car if it was meant to be driven like a Grandma...(no offense to any grandma out there...figure of speach i guess :lol: )

Personally, i haven't heard any complaint from say honda owners about warranty work....or Mitshu...or toyota....but i could be wrong. It just seem that subaru makes awesome cars but the dealership that sale these cars aren't very friendly to the subbie community....just my 2 cents :devil:

origonalp

08-14-2006, 04:14 AM

I have to agree. Desiree and Jeremy have both come through for me two times now. Great price, excellent attention, and they both wanted to make sure I was happy. The first time was an 04 WRX and this time an 06 STI.

I've only had to deal w/ service a few times, but rick in the back was definately cool to me. No maintenence done there, but I would have no problems taking it in, even if modded for some waranty work or just some basic fixes.

I blew out a CV and they called around until the found a new axle for me. Good guys!

Sorry to hear about bad times there, even my buddy has complained but I cant say anything bad about them.

Congrats on the scoob! welcome to the family!

ckc

03-21-2007, 03:11 PM

My fiance and I went to Irvine subaru based on many good reccs from here expecting a pleasant experience, but ended up very disappointed. We were in the market for a used legacy gt ltd wagon (rare, yes I know), and Irvine subaru had a used one in stick that just came into their possession. We called and spoke with both Rusty and Mike over the course of a couple days and we negotiated them down to 21k OTD. We were happy with the price and ready to come down and buy the car on the spot. So we go down there check out the car, and we're ready to seal the deal and they come back and say that sorry we can't do that price...the manager is new so doesn't know what they're doing... etc. and it'll cost you 25k OTD. We're like, WTF?!! And on top of that, they threatened by saying there's someone that's coming to buy the car tomorrow at the asking price if you don't buy it now. Talk about a total bait and switch. We were also in a bind because we needed another car (fiance crashed her civic, hence we needed a replacement). And get this, to make matters worse, while we were at the dealership, my fiance's brother called and said that her dad just got in a car accident and totaled his truck. What are the odds! So basically, 2 cars gone within a week.

We mulled over it for a while (we were so pissed off too) and luckily, we didn't fall for the trap and in the end we got lucky and picked one up from a private seller for much cheaper! So beware of any car dealership, they're all out there to get you! I don't trust anyone, except maybe Van Bortel in upstate NY... too bad I don't live near them anymore.

And just as an aside, we went to Big Valley Subaru in Van Nuys too and they just don't know what they're doing there. We dealt with John, up there, nice guy, but doesn't really know anything. They had a ton of sti's on the lot there, I couldn't believe there are so many used sti's floating around on lots. You can probably get one for a good deal, but I dunno about a used sti, probably beat on by some punk ricer kids. I saw one that had crazy curb rash on it, even in the middle of the rim. How the heck to you curb the middle of the rim?? Anyways, be wary.

12Voltking

03-22-2007, 01:09 PM

there not all out there to get you and I doubt it was a bait and switch.

Bait and Switch - Sign on one car give you cheaper nastier car. Typically done on brand new vehicle and obviously highly illegal.

I tend to agree with their excuse about new manager not knowing what he was doing, the other customer part is most likely a load of BS as well.

Glad you finally got a good deal though. :)

dalesd

03-25-2007, 03:56 AM

Get that price in writing. Have them fax it to you. Then you can take it to the attourney general's office if they reneg on the deal. The sleazeballs.

jsmithjr732

03-25-2007, 04:36 AM

Bought two cars from them over the last 5 years. A good experience on both. Dez worked with me on the trade and took care of the deal from start to finish. I'd go there again.

rubrduk

03-25-2007, 11:35 PM

that's horse crap...an offered price is an offered price - i would have left making sure they knew why i was leaving!

big valley are a bunch of con artists too - they play find the magic hidden $1000 bill when it comes to their financing...their math never added up once no matter how many times they wrote it down and they always left of a detail out like the interest rate or fees, etc... it was a joke and i called them on it everytime and even switch salesmen - they did have a ton of STi's but who cares

i found mine at Coast Nissan/BMW in San Luis Obispo (yeah, 3 hours from LA), bought mine from Nate, and the sales team there was the most honest i had ever worked with - no hidden crap, everything in writing,...not saying they were push-overs, but i felt i got what i needed (06 wagon with dealer leather, 12k miles, bought 8/06 for $21,500)

i would go there again

fourtoztofrdm

04-12-2007, 08:59 PM

I gave him a price already, he called and tryed to get a better price from another salesman who was new. We sold the car the next day at the ADVERTISED price....stop crying

dalesd

04-13-2007, 01:53 PM

I gave him a price already, he called and tryed to get a better price from another salesman who was new. We sold the car the next day at the ADVERTISED price....stop crying

How do you know this? Are you from Irvine Subaru?

Mechie3

04-13-2007, 02:02 PM

I don't trust anyone, except maybe Van Bortel in upstate NY... too bad I don't live near them anymore.

+1

The only dealership that didn't try and play with my naive 24 year old self (hey! I have a masters in mechanical engineering and knew more about the car than all the dealerships did!!) AND they offered me a fresh car from the factory in Japan with any option I wanted. Everyone else offered me only a lot car traded with other dealerships.

grenade

04-13-2007, 04:44 PM

i haven't had a good experience with irvine subaru either...their service department has horrible customer service and a generally bad attitude...

when i first got my car, which i purchased from irvine subaru, it was making a weird noise while at idle...i ask the service manager if i can get a mechanic to come out and hear the noise before i leave it with them...service manager says ok, but i have to come tomorrow right when the service dept opens (which i believe is 7 am)...

i get there at around 6:45 and am the 3rd car in line...when the service manager gets to me, i tell him that i'm here so early because he told me if i wanted the mechanic to come out and verify the problem, i'd have to be here this early...well, the service manager responds to this by saying the mechanics are too busy to come out right now, you're just gonna have to leave your car with me...after refreshing his memory about what he told me the day before all he said to me was the mechanics are busy, so if u want to leave your car here it's fine, but that's all i can do...i decide to leave the car there anyway and about 8 hours later i get a call from the service manager saying that the mechanic was not able to find the sound...what a waste of time...

another instance of bad customer service happened just a few days after i got the car new, from irvine subaru...the car was not aligned properly and i took back to irvine subaru for an aligment (stupid move)...they say ok, leave the car here and we'll get it aligned for you...i get a call when the service department is about to close telling my that my car wont be ready till tomorrow...kinda weird, but nothing i can do about it at this point...

when i go pick up my car the next day, i notice that the car has an additional 50 miles on the odometer...50 MILES!..i ask the service manager why this is so and he tells me that the car had to be aligned down the street at some other shop...and then they had to "test" the car to make sure it was aligned properly...10 or 15 miles i can understand...but 50?!..

whatever...i'm disgusted with irvine subaru...will never purchase a car from them again even if they are the only subaru dealer left...i would rather purchase a different brand than deal with them.

ckc

04-13-2007, 05:52 PM

I hear you, whatever happened to customer satisfaction and the customer is always right? I think I'd rather move to Japan, they know how to treat customers. It's amazing, like a night and day difference between what we have to deal with here.

Tahoe SC

04-13-2007, 06:43 PM

you just dealt with the wrong sales people there. Eric and others are quite nice. don't talk to anyone else but them.

as you can tell from a supposed Irvine Suby salesperson, he doesn't give a rat's a$$ about customers, complaints and reviews!

John Drivesabox

04-16-2007, 10:57 PM

I gave him a price already, he called and tryed to get a better price from another salesman who was new. We sold the car the next day at the ADVERTISED price....stop crying

That's a great way to sound like a total douchebag! I bet you're much nicer to people dangling 20 grand in your face.

Billenbuilt

04-21-2007, 04:30 PM

I HIGHLY recommend Irvine Subaru. My buddy bought 2 WRXs from them and I bought my STI from them a month ago. Smooth easy transactions, great price, good trade in value, just a great experience.

I have the hesitation issue with my 07 and Irvine is doing a great job so far with helping me find a solution.

Desi is awesome!
Chris the mechanic in service is great also!

jsmithjr732

04-21-2007, 05:20 PM

Bout time I heard something good about Irvine Subaru coming from other than my mouth. Great place...and Desi is awesome!

x2jag2x

04-21-2007, 09:17 PM

I bought my 06 WRX from Irvine Subaru and since they are so local, I have been servicing with them ever since. Until now. I went for an oil change this morning and I hungout in the back where the service bays are just for kicks (I'm a car guy, and like to watch my car get worked on).

Here are the three things that got me pissed...

1.) After my oil change was finished the service tech backed my car out of the bay, and put it in line for the car wash. He then proceeded to take out his cell phone and have a 15 minute conversation in my drivers seat... reclined and everything. No wonder the car wreaked of service tech after I got it back. I even saw him pick his nose and wipe it on the seat.

2.) I hear a loud ass boxer sound coming from what I assume is the street running alongside the dealership. When in actuality, its an 05 wrx being rallied around the service area by one of the techs. It comes FLYING around the corner of the bay, he screeches to a halt, slams it in reverse, adjusts, and floors it into the bay. I've got to assume it's not his, since management would be pissed if he was working on his own car during business hours. Being a subie driver, I was pissed and felt bad for the owner. If you were at the dealership this morning with a white, 05, wrx wing, greddy badge, catless exhaust..... I'd raise hell.

3.) When it was my cars turn for a bath, one of the techs gets in, starts it up, and instead of honking to get another tech to move, he revs the HELL out of it multiple times. I get it man, loud exhausts are fun, they make lots of noise. Get your own rex and beat the hell out of YOUR OWN CAR! I was on my way to complain when he saw me, stopped, and pulled into the wash bay.

Anyway, this dealership has lost me as a service customer. I understand that Subarus are not BMWs... I understand that all dealerships are probably like this from time to time, but here's the thing. THEY DON'T HAVE TO BE. Be nice to your customers, treat their cars with respect and deal with them fairly...and you'll have lifelong customers.

Any suggestions for which dealership I should go to from now on? South Coast? Renick? Thanks guys, just wanted to let everyone know about my experience. Drive safe.

- Jag

Letx

04-21-2007, 10:02 PM

change your own oil. it's not that hard. I wouldn't let anyone work on my car unless it was something major that I couldn't do. BUT i'd be pissed as hell if this happened to me. Lesson learned, do your own maintenance.

wrxugly

04-21-2007, 10:11 PM

I'd go to Renick. I've had many problems with South Coast service department. It has been so crappy, that I bought my second WRX from Renick. Christina is a cool lady.

soulska

04-21-2007, 10:27 PM

wow... +1 for changing the oil and washing your own car.

javablackpearl

04-21-2007, 11:05 PM

I had my oil changed last wednesday at Irvine. Either I didn't notice it immediately after leaving the dealership, or it took a day to take effect.. but there is this very odd trickling noise whenever I rev the engine - even in gear, but it's less noticeable. I hear this rushing water sound right below the dash area. Sounds almost like someone is pouring a bucket of water down my windshield.

I have *never* heard this sound before. After reading this thread I am pissed.

Does anyone know what the hell the noise could be?

turb04

04-21-2007, 11:06 PM

I'd go to Renick. I've had many problems with South Coast service department. It has been so crappy, that I bought my second WRX from Renick. Christina is a cool lady.

I agree Christina is the best . I only do business and services with Renick. Irvine & South Coast have given me problems!!

RSEngineer

04-22-2007, 12:32 AM

I used to be a tech at New Century BMW in Alhambra and at Norm Reeves Honda in Cerritos. I still remember the first time i spun an M3 up to 8000rpm:devil: And the first time I got an S2000 sideways on a test drive.... I have matured since then. At both dealerships the only techs that didnt romp on a modified cars were the old timers. You should bring it up to the service and general managers so they can tighten the leash on the techs.

txl146

04-22-2007, 12:44 AM

Whenever I have a bad experience, I write a professional letter to a general manager at the dealership. If you have a problem with a service department, let general manager know in details.

x2jag2x

04-22-2007, 01:12 AM

Thanks for the advice. I used to change the oil in all of my previous cars, but for some reason, a turbo engine made me think the dealership was a good choice. I'll definitely do my own at the next 3000. And if I have any other trouble, I'm checking out Renick, I hear good things. Thanks again.

And java, sorry, I don't know what the sound could be, but now you might know the cause. I wouldn't take it back to Irvine if I were you.

jsmithjr732

04-22-2007, 01:13 AM

Whenever I have a bad experience, I write a professional letter to a general manager at the dealership. If you have a problem with a service department, let general manager know in details.

Agree 110% I had a bad experience at an Acura dealership...went up to the GM and was treated like royalty afterwards. I think I ended up getting the sales monkey fired.

kaliformula

04-22-2007, 01:42 AM

I haven't taken my wrx to the dealer once for service, everything gets done at Suby Specialties in Monrovia and I couldn't be happier

Josh[ua]

04-22-2007, 03:32 AM

when i took my limited in there for service the guys almost ripped my front lip off. you know that huge dip right between the 2 garages. well the guy took my car and completely scratched the lip, i could see it just bend like hell, then reversed it to scratch it again and took it around the back... i wanted to kill him... in many differnt ways.. lets just keep it at that.

spooln407

04-22-2007, 05:56 AM

Christina over at Renick subaru. go talk to her

Billenbuilt

04-22-2007, 02:51 PM

Every business has bad employees. I hope you told the Service Manager AND the General Sales Manager. If you didnt, shame on you. I would have walked up to him in my car and ask WTF are you doing! I have worked in the Auto and Motorcycle Dealer business for over 20 years. I have seen alot of problems like this with techs. I have seen a lot of techs fired for this reason IF WE KNEW ABOUT IT. Dont judge a dealer by one bad apple. I can tell you this also there is not alot of good techs out there for the dealers to chose from. I would say "good" techs are one of the hardest employees to find for dealerships. Dont get me wrong, nothing more I hate than dropping my car off to a service dept. because your situation is exactly what I am afraid of. I try to make friends with at least one mechanic at the dealer and request him only if at all possible. I can tell you a six pack of beer can do wonders!

icanbrkurhrt

04-22-2007, 03:01 PM

All Of You Guys Should Go Where I Go
Its Called Garage Tuning (gt For Short)
They Are In Orange Right Off Batavia And Barkley Ave.
They Only Work On Subaru's Nothing Else!
They Are The ****.
If You Have A Questions Hit Me Up
I Only Get My Wrx Worked On By Them No One Else

txl146

04-22-2007, 03:08 PM

I forwarded this thread to a general manager at Irvine Subaru. Here is the response I received on email:

Thank you Tim for bring this to my attension this is Desiree Farey General Manger and owner of Irvine Subaru. I will bring this to a hult on Monday morning, I can not believe what happened. I would really like to know what tech it was that did this, if there is anyway of finding out please let me know. I have been re-organizing the service department with a new service manager and parts manager and they seem to be doing a great job. I have not received any complaints for quite a while since I replaced the Service manager, but this, well there is no exuse for such behavior and the only one who suffers is me and my customers. I can promise you that this will not happen again and if there is anyway of knowing who it was it will help me to make sure I let the right employee go.

Thank you again Desiree FareyIrvine Subaru General Manager

xsennaix

04-22-2007, 03:13 PM

Christina over at Renick subaru. go talk to her

+1 for christina.....she's awesome!

geeboy

04-23-2007, 01:46 AM

To the OP, I hope you dropped the necessary info to Desiree. I had my car worked on at Irvine about a two years ago, I hate to imagine the same thing or worse happened to my car. This guy deserves to be terminated. Follow up with and let us know if Desiree did what she said she would do in the letter. Thanks for posting your story.;)

grenade

04-23-2007, 05:21 PM

i posted this in another thread...but i've decided that i would make it a point to put this in every irvine subaru thread so that more people will get a chance to read it and have more info.

i haven't had a good experience with irvine subaru either...their service department has horrible customer service and a generally bad attitude...

when i first got my car, which i purchased from irvine subaru, it was making a weird noise while at idle...i ask the service manager if i can get a mechanic to come out and hear the noise before i leave it with them...service manager says ok, but i have to come tomorrow right when the service dept opens (which i believe is 7 am)...

i get there at around 6:45 and am the 3rd car in line...when the service manager gets to me, i tell him that i'm here so early because he told me if i wanted the mechanic to come out and verify the problem, i'd have to be here this early...well, the service manager responds to this by saying the mechanics are too busy to come out right now, you're just gonna have to leave your car with me...after refreshing his memory about what he told me the day before all he said to me was the mechanics are busy, so if u want to leave your car here it's fine, but that's all i can do...i decide to leave the car there anyway and about 8 hours later i get a call from the service manager saying that the mechanic was not able to find the sound...what a waste of time...

another instance of bad customer service happened just a few days after i got the car new, from irvine subaru...the car was not aligned properly and i took back to irvine subaru for an aligment (stupid move)...they say ok, leave the car here and we'll get it aligned for you...i get a call when the service department is about to close telling my that my car wont be ready till tomorrow...kinda weird, but nothing i can do about it at this point...

when i go pick up my car the next day, i notice that the car has an additional 50 miles on the odometer...50 MILES!..i ask the service manager why this is so and he tells me that the car had to be aligned down the street at some other shop...and then they had to "test" the car to make sure it was aligned properly...10 or 15 miles i can understand...but 50?!..

whatever...i'm disgusted with irvine subaru...will never purchase a car from them again even if they are the only subaru dealer left...i would rather purchase a different brand than deal with them.

Tahoe SC

04-23-2007, 08:00 PM

i hope he didn't mean the alignment shop just up the street by pepboys!

geeboy

04-24-2007, 03:52 PM

Billenbuilt

04-24-2007, 11:01 PM

I just have to say I have had nothing but a positive experience from Irvine Subaru. From the first intital phone call concerning the purchase my 2007 STI (purchased March 23rd) to the 1st service (a week ago). I just want to thank Dustin (sales) Desi (General Sales Manager) Frank (Service Manager) Chris(Tech) for all your help and service. I have recieved nothing but great service from this dealer and I would recommend them to anyone looking for a Subaru. Some negative comments have been said here about Irvine but they have been nothing but extremely helpfull and professional. I look forward to purchasing another vehicle from them in the future.

Thanks Desi and Irvine Subaru

shortys64

04-25-2007, 12:22 AM

I can't say my experience has been anything but good. :D

sublimeplaid

04-29-2007, 04:29 AM

Same here, I'm on my 2nd WRX from them.

EBWRC#1

05-17-2007, 03:37 AM

1SIKWRX4U2NV

05-17-2007, 08:14 PM

i have this "friend" who bought his 05 wrx there. They were nice enough in the beginning and got everything handled quickly thinking he was a push-over. Once the paperwork was drawn and completed, the car was driven home and a week later they called and said they needed to see my "friend" regarding his car.

They explained that they could no longer offer the apr they originally promised, and that they would need to redraft the loan documentation...rendering the original paperwork useless. (which was complete BS.)

Funniest part is that they were about to tear the paperwork (thinking i was dumb enough to go with their request) when i walked out and contacted my lawyer buddy. He told me what they were doing was illegal. If they signed on a promised apr, they have to go through with it no questions asked and i could not be liable. I walked back into the dealership with my newly gained knowledge and explained to them what i learned. Immediately things changed...including their story. They were sweating bullets for sure.

In the end, they had to offer me the option of keeping the car (at the orignally promised apr) or walking away from the car without penalty or payment. Since i knew i couldn't find that kind of a deal again, i stuck with it and felt good about it...

X-43a

05-18-2007, 06:22 PM

Sorry bro but, I'm not longer there!

Chino Valley is my new home...
+1 FOR THE WIN MITCH IS COOL

brucelee

05-19-2007, 04:15 AM

Got my RS from them back in 2000, no problems at all, just a good price and no BS. +1

Suby*Doo

05-21-2007, 01:54 AM

Hello fellow Suby friends, I jusy want to rant out how my experince at Irvine Subaru went 2 weeks ago.

"I went in and told them straght up, I'm buying a car today. done deal." They came up, and first off, they told me to wait, no big deal, I waited a good 15 min. before I had to go in and get somebody to help me. I go inside, sales staff is sitting and joking around with eachother while I waited outside. Finally some guy comes out and trys to help me. I tell him I want a STi, but fincially I cant afford it, so I'm dead set on a WRX TR. He said why cant you afford the STi? First off, none of his business, second, who cares, I said I wanted a TR and it should have been left at that. I wanted a Satian White Pearl TR and they said that there was NONE in Cali, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. I checked the internet before I went and they said they had one in inventory, 3 at South Coast, and 5 at another dealership, so right there, I was pissed. They told me they cant sell what they dont have. So I take a walk outside with a salesman and we talk for a bit, I asked if they had any other colors. He said this is all. black and blue and one grey. The General Manager came out looking to sell me a car since I was "causing trouble" It ended up her yelling at me calling immature and that I dont even have credit to finace a car anyways, so I should just leave.

I call South Coast Subaru and they have 3 in stock. I make an appointment with them for next saturday and long story short, I got my Satian White Pearl TR. Dietrich was extreamly nice and I would recomend his to anyone trying to get a Subaru. I then went back to Irvine Subaru and asked for the general manager, she came out and said, I thought I told you to come back when you are ready to talk. I had brougt my friend that was going to put a 16K down payment on a 07 STi...little did they know. She yelled at us and I laughed and walked away.

The service there was the worst I've ever seen, and notto mention they are the "top" subaru dealer. :lol:

I would recomend SouthCoast Subaru to anyone considering gettinga new or used Suby.

DONT GO TO IRVINE SUBARU...TERRIBLE SERVICE AND RUDE SALES STAFF!:mad:

NismoSkylineGTR

05-21-2007, 02:08 AM

you should show her your new car and said " thought you guys said there are none "

IEWRX

05-21-2007, 02:11 AM

Ummm... Hate to say it but What? Sounds like you went in there with a bad attitude. You brought up the STi thing and when they were going to try you basically told them to mind their own business. You brought it up. Why not just go in and say I want a TR?

Qcanfixit

05-21-2007, 02:19 AM

good for you getting the car you wanted, but dude, you told the salesperson that you wanted this and couldn't afford it, keep in mind its their job to help you find a way, so them asking you why, was most likely not meant as invasive, he was trying to help you find a way. try seeing it from his point of view, as for the other stuff, it seems vague and one sided so i cant comment on that.

once again, good for you on getting what you wanted.

sc00ter

05-21-2007, 02:25 AM

"I went in and told them straght up, I'm buying a car today. done deal." They came up, and first off, they told me to wait, no big deal, I waited a good 15 min. before I had to go in and get somebody to help me. I go inside, sales staff is sitting and joking around with eachother while I waited outside. Finally some guy comes out and trys to help me. I tell him I want a STi, but fincially I cant afford it, so I'm dead set on a WRX TR. He said why cant you afford the STi? First off, none of his business, second, who cares, I said I wanted a TR and it should have been left at that.

DONT GO TO IRVINE SUBARU...TERRIBLE SERVICE AND RUDE SALES STAFF!:mad:

Actually, you told him you wanted an STI but you were settling for the TR. So obviously the salesman is going to try to get you into the car you want for his sake (commission) and for yours. You approached the salesman, wanting him to sell you a car and then you thought that what you can/can't afford is "none of his business". When you approached him to sell you a car you made it his business. It sounds like he was trying to help you out, and maybe if you listened to him for a few minutes he would have given you some ideas on how you could possibly afford the STI.

I work at an Apple store and I know that if someone approached me wanting a computer and then told me that what they can or can't afford is none of my business I would know that the sale is not going anywhere and I would probably try to move on to another customer who is willing to be patient and understand that I am trying to help them.

You had that whole situation coming to a dead end before you even walked in the door.

bdpAKAknox

05-21-2007, 02:28 AM

your over reacting kid.

illt3ck

05-21-2007, 02:34 AM

irvine subaru sucks - it's no secret.

Rumplemenz

05-21-2007, 03:01 AM

car dealers.. drug dealers.. computer dealers.. they all suck

congrats on your new ride.. don't let that experience take away the enjoyment of owning a new vehicle that you seemed to really want.. now lets just hope you have no throttle response issues or any other bs that other wrx owners are having.. lets hope theres no hesitation bs and your car only sees the dealer b/c of oil changes..! sorry.. im a angry sti owner right now.. i know.. some guys are tellin me to chill and they are right.. but no 2007 automobile with less than 2k miles should be in the shop as we speak

best of luck dude

benj182

05-21-2007, 06:01 AM

i used to get my car serviced at south coast subaru and their service is really good there. ive heard the same about irvine subaru.

pete_falcone

05-21-2007, 01:00 PM

I'd like to get the salesman's side to this story.

fourtoztofrdm

05-21-2007, 02:41 PM

Too bad you had a bad experience. Try coming into the dealership next time to speak with Desi, not to yell at her. Desi and the rest of the I.S. staff do everything that we can for every customer that walks in. We were unable to get a SWP TR because they are hard to find and dealerships won't give them up or will say they dont have them, plain and simple. I think that you should come in and say sorry for coming into her store and trying to make a fool of someone that has accomplished so much for Subaru.

Thank you

IEWRX

05-22-2007, 01:11 AM

X-43a

05-22-2007, 03:26 PM

pfft fork irvine subaru

SedonaScooby

05-22-2007, 03:33 PM

no one can say who's right or wrong.......

sounds like both had attitude problems....and maybe being a little cocky

good to hear you got your car tho!

drdoom013

06-11-2007, 02:09 PM

i took my wagon there for the 30K service. i asked if i could wait for the servicing and they said that it would be an all-dayer. no problem. i asked them to check the radiator b/c last year on a road trip from L.A. to Oregon the temp ran a little high at times. they said 'ok'. upon my visual inspection you could see that the top tank had actually 'seeped' b/c it seemed to be under a lot of pressure. a friend said that it could be a stuck rad/resev cap.

when i got the loaner from them they said that they'll call me tomorrow when my car was ready. the next day i was out and about and no phone call so i call them around 3pm. "oh, it's ready." damnit!!! they were 60 miles away from me and it's going to kill the next 3 hours! picked up the car and read the invoice. it didn't mention anything about the radiator so i asked the service guy. he said that the 'radiator was on order and we'll call you when it comes in.' that was 6 weeks ago...

go figure...

Subie Specialties here i come!!!

STI TEAM

08-07-2007, 07:17 PM

Give a chace, I'm not a manager but I can try to help you. Call me at (949)331-8500.

Spooled

08-08-2007, 11:58 AM

Dropped my car off there to get it looked at early this morning. The dealership refused to take 15 minutes to drive me home because it was over the 10 mile mark. The parts manager also claimed that they only had 1 driver available and that other people would need rides home....I was the only customer there. Considering the fact that I have been dropped home before, I didn't assume it to be a problem, but apparently it was. I finally had to pay for a dented-up rental car. Absolutely TERRIBLE customer service. Not only that, but I'm sure I'll get jerked around on my car evaluation (play coming from the passenger side rear wheel and a nasty clunk on the same side) which I was charged $100 for. The know-it-all parts guy (who I'm sure doesn't even drive a Subaru) decided to tell me he knew what my problem was...aftermarket struts, before the car was looked at. Thanks, but they're brand new and you're not a mechanic. TERRIBLE, TERRIBLE treatment from a paying customer who purchased a car from the same dealership. They've lost all future business from me.

r!az

psi365

08-08-2007, 05:18 PM

If I had 10 or 15 miles on the odometer I would of went ballistic. I shouldn't be to surprised. I had a friend that worked at a different dealership and apparently this kind of abuse is pretty common according to him.

I'm not a subie tech but I can tell you this. Sometimes we have to perform an extended test drive (not 50 miles unless we get the customers permission) m) just to try different things like if the car has a fuel trim problem its takes at least 5-10 miles for the long term fuel trim to show up. Its not like we get paid for test drives either. So while we are in your car we are really loosing money. You are also assuming that they would be putting that 10-15 on your car all at once. There's been multiple times were I have had cars with complaints of squeeks or rattles were I have had to take a few test drives to see if I have fixed the noise.

tdoggydog

08-14-2007, 12:46 AM

You know, I'm a little sick and tired of people complaining about a dealership pointing out problems with a warrantied vehicle, when it's perfectly clear that aftermarket parts could in fact void the warranty. I go to Irvine Subaru for service, and Frank Mancilla has been nothing short of exceptional in terms of his customer service and knowledge. As a matter of fact, I'd also like to shout out some praise to Desiree Farey, who helped me line up the deal on my car. Irvine Subaru is a great place to go for purchase and/or service!

kg2128

08-14-2007, 01:16 AM

You can't just generalize like that, it depends on the problem. Dealers have blamed aftermarket suspension for engine or transmission problems before dont put anything past them. I understand you had a positive experience with them but that doesn't make other peoples bad experiences invalid I know people try to do bs with warranties but we dont know his situation. I also had a positive experience buying a car from them, service on the other hand was terrible I already posted before so I wont go into detail.

SeVn

08-14-2007, 01:45 AM

Yeah, I too had a very positive experience buying my car. But the customer service is pretty terrible.

When I bought my car I was in a rush, so it did not get detailed and I was told to come back the next day. But they rejected me saying I had no official appointment and it wasn't until my third visit with 2 appointments misplaced that I finally got all the dings and scratches off my car. I also had to leave my car there the whole day just for that, and they didn't even want to give me a rental car until my mom showed up =). Pretty bad service.

tdoggydog

08-14-2007, 02:19 AM

I just don't think it's fair to expect a mechanic to drive you home. I believe part of the problem is that too many people complain, and not enough praise. If the management started getting good feedback from customers, don't you think that they'd be more inclined to keep that up? Writing a letter to the dealership and/or SOA wouldn't hurt, doesn't take much time, and it shows that you're not just a whiner.

Runnerup44

08-14-2007, 02:24 AM

i had a really crappy experience at irvine subaru

tdoggydog

08-14-2007, 02:30 AM

Right on! I'm posting because I'm thoroughly IMPRESSED by Irvine Subaru - both the purchase and service departments. Desiree Farey and Frank Mancilla have been very courteous and accommodating. I think that with all of these complaints that people may get the wrong idea about them, so it's up to us who are pleased and enjoy this partnership, to speak up for Irvine Subaru.

tdoggydog

08-14-2007, 11:00 PM

I think it's pretty weasel-ish to have a bad experience and bitch and moan about it online, without even notifying the dealership and giving them the opportunity to rectify the problem. I saw someone post about some concerning activity at Irvine, with mechanics racing the customer's cars around. Then when someone here forwarded the post to Desiree, she was eager to resolve the problem. Why couldn't the initial person making the complaint have done that? Shame on you guys!

SeVn

08-15-2007, 10:18 PM

lol... because the people there make it seem like they don't care. =) When you look at some of their faces, the feeling they give off is: You don't like it? Then go away.

But there are lots of nice people there too. So I usually goto them, so you don't see me complaining, even though I also have bad experience.

tdoggydog

08-17-2007, 07:09 PM

So many people complain, it's time for a change to praise a worthy dealership. I purchased my 08 Legacy 3.0R from Irvine Subaru, working with Desiree Farey who was extremely pleasant to interact with. This was by far the most pain free and hassle free car purhcase I've ever had (I used the VIP program).

Then, after driving the car a few days I noticed a couple of quirks that needed addressed through the warranty. Frank Mancilla of the service department was very helpful and had no hesitation to order the necessary parts and provide me with a loaner during the diagnostic and repair visits. The guys in the shop even helped me transfer all of my gear from one car to the other.

I'm writing SOA and cc'ing the dealership to thank them for taking such good care of this customer. Hopefully some of you will get the opportunity to work with them in the future! :banana:

enXiks

08-19-2007, 04:01 AM

When you've racked up a bad reputation, it'll take a lot more of YOU to change our minds. It's a start.

I have my doubts about you, since all you post is about how you got treated well.

tdoggydog

08-20-2007, 12:16 AM

Unfortunately, I think they're may be a reputation because the whiners make all the noise. The simple folk who have had little or no issues, tend not to make a fuss.

subagod

08-23-2007, 06:30 PM

subagod

08-25-2007, 02:00 AM

I take my car in to get serviced and have noticed that none of the writers know anything about cars. Frank mancilla I heard used to be a resturaunt manager and came over and next thing is service manager, listen to the guy he knows nothing about cars. That guy Sebastian is ****ing retarded. out of all the people I deal with there service or parts the only guy that knows something and can help or at least trys is Brian. that guy Franco the PARTS MANAGER gives you a dirty look when you need parts and some other dude helps you that can hardly speak any english but at least he is polite and gets me what you need. When you pull up and that guy looks at the dents on your car, you tell him your complaints and he listens for 10 minutes and then tells you to go to Sebastian and he will write you up and then you have to tell him everything all over again because the first guy did not understand english. Seriously what the ****. this dealership needs to step up and get employees that know what they are doing.... it could be a great place if they had knowledgeable employees.