Complaints

This profile includes complaints for A Better Way Wholesale Autos, Inc.'s headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see Find Local Branches.

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  A Better Way Wholesale Autos, Inc.

  49 Raytkwich Rd Naugatuck, CT 06770-2223

• 

  A Better Way Wholesale Autos, Inc.

  423 Rubber Ave Naugatuck, CT 06770-3715

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/09/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I purchased a car with a better way wholesale autos on March 7. They gave me a runaround and I was not able to get the car until March 18. I’ve only had the car for about two weeks when the check engine light goes off. The car was priced at 7995 and I financed and put down a down payment. I bring it into the service department because I am paying for the warranty which covers any problems with the car. The issue with the car was originally spark plugs, but with no updates I’ve had to continuously call just for them to tell me that I need an entire new engine, a car sold with an engine issue That was not originally brought up? For the past week almost 2 weeks. I have been trying to get them to fix my car and they have not. They keep telling me that the warranty company is not getting back to them, but that just doesn’t make any sense.

  Business Response

  Date: 04/25/2025

  As Ms. ****** stated in her complaint, she purchased a 2014 model year vehicle for $7,995.  Due to the vehicles age and high odometer reading, it was sold AS-IS. 

  A few weeks after the purchase, the vehicle's check engine light began to illuminate intermittently.  ABW followed protocol by diagnosing the vehicle and making repairs, free of charge to Ms. ******.  The vehicle was ultimately diagnosed as needing an engine.  The engine replacement has been approved and a replacement engine has been sourced.  The replacement is on track for completion on or around 4/30-5/1.  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/18/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Purchased vehicle that was unsafe and not working correctly. Initially needed Clutch installed. I asked numerous times if the car was inspected and up to code. There was an open recall on the car so we brought it to ******* in ********* for the recall. While there an engine light came on, oil leak was found, coolant is brown and unsafe. A better way initially offered to have car brought back to them and I declined as they didn’t do the job correctly the first couple times they had car. Now I contacted warranty who states the policy isn’t active due to not being funded by dealership yet.

  Business Response

  Date: 04/07/2025

  We have reviewed the complaint filed by *** ******* and I have discussed the matter with our Service Department.

  *** ******* purchased a 2015 ********** February 13, 2024.  A few days after purchase, the vehicle was brought to ABW's repair facility with a complaint regarding the vehicle's manual clutch. 

  *** *******'s Service Contract does not cover the manual clutch as it is considered a wear part, which is changed at interval, based on multiple factors, including driving style.

  ABW replaced the clutch free of charge.

  Since, *** ******* has brought the vehicle to ABW's repair facility with a complaint of dirty coolant and an oil leak.

  ABW made the related repairs to the ** under its Good Will Policy.

  The matter has been resolved.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/21/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I bought my **** ** 2021 from them in end of May/June. I bought extended warranty, which was for 36 months. I was driving the car for a 5 months then I started having massive amount of water leaking inside of my car where the lights is by the rear view mirror every time it rains outside. I couldn’t get an appoint until the month of January. The woman in charge of the service department is probably the most rudest, unhelpful person in customer service. She made it seem like I did not have extended warranty to begin with then she said I had to pay for the diagnostic fee for that day, but must pay an additional $400 for additional diagnostics before determining if whether or not warranty would cover the repairs. This car had this issue before I bought the car clearly. In addition, the windshield fluid does not hold causing me not to be able to drive safely when it rains or snows. So, I am driving with no fluids, which is the reason for the car not passing inspection. I am also driving the car while it is pouring inside the vehicle. Lastly, since it has been so frigid out the water leaking inside the car froze the drive shaft and I could not put the car in drive twice now. While driving the car two hours to **, I also had to rent a car for three days which is more money out of pocket. I need major help resolving this issue. I should not have to repair a car that has this type of damage when just purchasing a newer vehicle.

  Business Response

  Date: 02/04/2025

  We have received the complaint submitted by ********* ***** and we reviewed the vehicle service history and service notes.  The following is what we discovered:
  Ms. ***** purchased the **** on June 10th, 2024. The vehicle came with a 60 day/3,000 mile warranty.  Ms. ***** also purchased a service contract with the vehicle.
  On October 15, 2024 Ms. ***** called ABW’s service center and explained that the vehicle had developed a water leak.  Chrissi, ABW’s Service Representative, offered Ms. ***** appointment options of either the next day, October 16th, or October 18th.  Ms. ***** selected the opening for the next day.
  The following morning, October 16th, Ms. ***** called the Service Department and cancelled the appointment.  She was asked when she would like to reschedule, however she declined and said she would get back to us to reschedule the appointment.
  Two months later, Ms. ***** called and scheduled an appointment for January 14th.  
  Ms. ***** did not mention anything regarding the windshield fluid not holding during any of her calls.  Perhaps the washer-fluid tank has been filled with water, thus freezing and bursting the tank during recent low temps.  ABW would be happy to diagnose this issue and offer repair options.
  Per *** *****’s complaint, the leak developed 5 months after her purchase.
  The vehicle was approximately 3 months beyond ABW’s 60 day/3,000 mile warranty when the water leak started and is now several months beyond ABW’s warranty. Ms ***** should prepare herself for the potential that the necessary repairs may not be covered by the service contract.
  The $400 Ms. ***** referred to is authorization of the time required to diagnose the leak in case the cause of the leak is not covered by the service contract. If the failed component is covered, the $400 would not be charged.
  ABW suggests that Ms. ***** approve the diagnosis as soon as possible.  Neglecting water infiltration is a big mistake in a vehicle such as this ****.  The water is practically guaranteed to damage one or more of the several very expensive modules in the dashboard, center console, and/or under the carpet and these items will not be covered under the service contract due to the water infiltration.
  We urge Ms. ***** to call TJ C***** to authorize the diagnosis time before this problem becomes far bigger.  TJ can be reached at ###-###-####.  If Ms. ***** needs assistance bearing the expense of the repair in the case it is not covered, TJ will be able to offer options to help.
  Thank you.
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/28/2024

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I want to clarify upfront that despite purchasing a **** about 3 yrs ago, the true nature of this issue had not come to light until recently. The engine light came on during the test drive and we were told they would fix the issue. After a few weeks we were told there were faulty O2 sensors that had been fixed and they would send all the info to me regarding the repairs. We decided to get the car and the light came back on a week after purchase. Nobody would return my calls or emails. My son decided to try to fix the issue himself as time allowed. Unfortunately, he was off to college and emissions testing came and went with a failure that we could not resolve. Now we are at the point where we have already invested thousands of dollars and the car cannot be registered. I decided to take the car to a mechanic and after a few days they called me with the bad news. This is when the true level of deceit finally came to light. I went down and met with the mechanic who lifted the hood and pointed out grounding wires that do not belong there. And apparently, A Better Way Auto, as opposed to fixing what my mechanic suspects to be a faulty ECM, had grounded out the O2 sensors to the wiring harness which if I understand correctly just tricks the control module into thinking everything is okay and somehow cleared the engine light (temporarily). I was actually told there is nothing further they can do because of what was done to the car they cannot diagnose the actual issue and undoing all the bad wiring and figuring out what is actually wrong and getting it repaired would probably cost more than it is worth. If I cannot register the car it’s a total loss at this point. A week ago today I emailed the customer service rep noted on this site with a follow up a couple days ago and have had no response. My hope is that the mechanics there are familiar with this type of work around and can help remedy the situation so I can get the **** registered and back on the road.

  Business Response

  Date: 11/13/2024

  We have read Mr. *******'s complaint.  While we would like to help Mr. *******, the complaint is confusing and seems to contradict itself.  

  The vehicle at hand is a 15-year-old **** ******** which was sold AS-IS in 2021 with over 130,000 miles. 

  ABW spent thousands of dollars reconditioning the **** before selling it to Mr. *******.  ABW replaced the hood latch, repaired driver door wiring, recharged the battery, secured the data link connector, re-secured heater hoses, replaced the rear plate frame and lights, replaced the rear wiper arm, replaced all 4 of the vehicle's tires, replaced all brake pads and the brake rotors, replaced the front pinion seal, replaced all tie bars and tie bar ends and adjusting sleeves, replaced the fuel tank support, replaced the U-jioints, replaced the pinion seal, changed the engine oil and oil filter, and topped off all fluids Work also included several inspections, including an inspection performed at a State of *********** Emissions Testing Center, where the emissions system was tested and found to be in working order. 

  Since 2021, and over the last 10,000+ miles driven since the 2021 transaction, the vehicle has never returned to ABW with any concerns, and through ****** and Mr. *******'s complaint we glean that the vehicle has been worked on by shops other than ABW as well as also being worked on by Mr. *******'s son. However, Mr. ******* states that ABW's "...true level of deceit finally came to light" recently, when a mechanic told him that ABW grounded the vehicle's O2 sensors to trick the vehicle's modules.  The problem is that O2 sensors are always grounded.  In order to work, the system must be grounded and if they were not grounded, the check engine light would illuminate.  There is no way to "trick" modules as Mr. ******* described. 

  Mr. ******* concluded his email by asking ABW to look at his vehicle "...in hopes the mechanics at ABW are familiar with this type of work around..."  While we find this a bit confusing, since he first stated ABW installed this "work around", ABW can look at the vehicle and attempt to diagnose it at a reduced labor rate.  He can text or call TJ C***** at ###-###-####.  TJ will schedule the **** for a service appointment. 

  Thank you-

  Customer Answer

  Date: 11/16/2024

  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  This response is actually somewhat comical. I would love to know how my complaint contradicts itself. When I asked for the service records upon purchase I am ignored but all of a sudden with a BBB complaint I am provided with a laundry list of work that was done prior to purchase. Regardless, this list holds no weight because obviously no one would spend $12,000 on a car needing all that work. The funniest part is that the list does not include any work on the O2 sensors which is what I was told was fixed when the engine light came on during the test drive. 

  The only shop it has been to since purchase was to get a leaking rear pinion seal fixed (which sounds like it was already done by ABW, apparently poorly).  That shop actually told us we should not let our son drive the **** because of its poor condition, need of shocks, chassis mounts, etc.  

  I am no mechanic, maybe if I said the O2 sensors were not "properly grounded' that would make more sense?  But based on the recent diagnosis and speaking with that mechanic there was definitely some sketchy work done prior to our purchasing the vehicle.  I imagine if it was not done by ABW they would have noticed will ALL that extensive work they did "reconditioning" the ****. 

  I am not interested in a "reduced labor rate" whatever that rate may be. I would much rather pay a reputable shop full price to have to work done the right way than give ABW another dime of my money.  I should have listened to all the people that told me NOT to buy a car here is the first place. Lesson learned. Thanks for nothing.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  ******* *******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/02/2024

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I purchased a car (2017 *** ****** ******) from a used cars d****rship in ** called A Better Way Wholesale Autos (website: *****************************) on 8/10/2024. I paid $10650.43 for the car and an additional $1914.30 for a package which they advertised to me that was suppose to cover the car in full only excluding parts that wear out over time (eg wipers, tires). The business committed to repairing any unwearable components that goes faulty on the car (they stressed the fact that you cannot predict when the hybrid battery will go bad so I should definitely buy the warranty). I was also told I could diagnose and repair the car under the warranty at any *** d****rship near me (I took the car to *** and they could not find the supposed extended warranty in their records). Less than one day since I purchased the car, several check lights including the engine check light came up on the dashboard. I reached out to the sales person that facilitated the deal immediately complaining about the issues (screenshots attached). They promised to changed/repair several parts (automatic braking system, oil filters, brake pads etc) from the car prior to selling first saying that the parts were on ground and later that they were expecting the parts (now I am convinced that those parts were never changed, eg one of the check light warns about the automatic brake system also the Auto Hold doesn't work). They intentionally sold a faulty car to me. I have put in so much resources, time and money to have this issue resolved but it seems the business is not concerned. My first appointment with their service dept got cancelled (09/02/2024) and was rescheduled almost a month later. They did diagnose the car and asked me to pay $4000 for repairs (attached are all the issues found on the car). Possible solutions: 1. Repair car. OR 2. Refund in full my extended warranty payment since they now claim it doesn't cover anything on the car. 3. Return the car and receive my money back.

  Business Response

  Date: 10/25/2024

  The hybrid vehicle was purchased AS-IS due to its age.  It was sold 8/10/24 with over 100,000 miles after passing a number of inspections, including an emissions test performed at a state licensed inspection facility. The vehicle would not have passed this test if the check engine light was on or if any of the vehicle's monitors detected any problems. 

  ABW has no record of cancelling a service appointment 9/2/24, however there was a service visit 9/25/24, during which the vehicle was diagnosed as needing a catalytic converter.  ABW offered to provide the labor involved if the customer would pay for the part, since catalytic converters are not covered by service contracts.  The customer refused to pay for the part.

  To resolve the matter, *** ******** proposes the option of providing a full-credit refund of the amount he paid for his service contract, to which ABW agrees.  If *** ******** could respond that he would like his contract refunded, we will process the cancellation.  Alternatively, ABW would be willing to cover $1,000 of the $4,000 replacement of the catalytic converter, and also provide the labor involved free of charge.  These good will adjustments would reduce *** ********'s out of pocket expense to $3,000 and he would still have his warranty in place.  ABW suggests this course due to the age, odometer reading and complexity of the hybrid system of this vehicle.

  Thank you.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 10/28/2024

  
  ********** ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  

  I am not sure of what ABW meant by 'we will process the cancellation', will I get the total amount that I paid for the contract? (which was $1914.30; if this is the case, I am ok with that atleast). During the purchase, they advertised that everything will be covered (including the batteries, transmissions, electrical system) which is why I bought the highest level. I am very disappointed because they lied to me.

  Attached is a screenshot of the proof that I had an appointment on 9/2/2014 and was cancelled (you said you couldn't find it in your record?). Could you provide the repairs/service history of the car prior to selling it? I have a list of things that needed to be fixed, I will let you know if there was any oversight.
  

  Sadly, I am a student and I don't have any pocket money to support the repair (they only I can do now is to resale the car back to you if you cannot cover the repair).
  

  
  Sincerely,
  ******* ********

  Business Response

  Date: 11/01/2024

  Please clarify.  *** ******** has rejected ABW's response, in which ABW agreed to *** ********'s requested resolution; a full credit for the price of the warranty ($1914.30).  Then, however, in the body of the rejection, he seems to accept the resolution as he proposed.  

  We have agreed to *** ********'s proposed resolution and reaffirm our willingness to process the cancellation and issue *** ******** a credit for $1914.30.  If *** ******** would like to proceed, he may contact Bobby B****, ABW's Office Manager.  He will get the cancellation form to *** ********, so we may submit the cancellation to the service contract company.

  Once that has been processed, we will be happy to discuss *** ********'s options regarding trading the vehicle or selling the vehicle.

  Thank you.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 11/08/2024

  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that their response is pointing towards a successful resolution. Thank you!

  The business asked me to send documents to Bobby B****, I have already mailed my documents as requested by (********************), could they confirm the receipt of my warranty cancel processing documents? is that Bobby B****'s contact? I sent the documents on Oct 21st 2024 to the address provided in the attachment.

  Once I receive the refund as promised, I will want to proceed with selling the car back to the business.
  
  Sincerely,
  ******* ********

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/20/2024

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I bought a car from this used car dealer approximately 2 weeks ago. When sold the car I was told there was structural damage and nothing else. I took the car to a voltswagon dealer where they identified that the engine was a salvage engine from a junk yard, it had no crash bar, airbags and a faulty clutch. If the fact the car had a salvaged engine been disclosed before purchase I wouldn’t have purchased the vehicle. When I confronted them about this I asked for my deposit back as they violated the terms of the contract under the unfair trade agreement act. They stated they didn’t have to disclose this, to me nor *** *** which I have in recording. I would like my deposit back, a check back to my bank for the loan amount and to be paid for the inspections I had done to the car.

  Business Response

  Date: 10/07/2024

  After extensive, multi-party re-inspections of the vehicle, ABW was unable to confirm *** ********'s concerns. However, this matter has been resolved nonetheless.
  ABW disclosed, both verbally and in writing, a ****** entry of previous structural damage before his purchase. This is not in dispute as he acknowledged this in his compliant. After his purchase, *** ******** brought the vehicle to a dealership that told him a crash bar was missing.  ABW agreed to look at the vehicle and verified through multiple inspections that the crash bar was there. We believe the dealer likely meant to note that a splash guard was missing, however that was not properly communicated to their service writer.  The dealer which told him that a crash bar was missing also quoted him $4,500 to inspect his clutch, noting they would have to remove the transmission to do so.  It is also noteworthy that *** ******** states he possesses recordings (made in person, without consent) which include ABW telling him we do not report to ******, which we find puzzling. It seems *** ******** believes ABW replaced the vehicle's engine, which it did not, and it seems he believes ABW is somehow obligated to report to ******, which it is not.
  After addressing these concerns, *** ******** then reported to ABW that he brought the vehicle to another shop, which now told him (offering no specificity) that the airbag system was not working. Note this was after the ** dealer already inspected the vehicle and did not find any problems with the airbag system.  ABW again agreed to look at the vehicle.  There were no faults stored and the airbag system was working as designed. 
  ABW delivered a safe, merchantable vehicle to *** ******** and responded to his concerns, however *** ******** remained unsatisfied, so ABW agreed to resolve the matter by unwinding the sale transaction, which has since been completed.  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/10/2024

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I purchased a vehicle(******** **** with 50k miles) from a better way wholesale ( i have much more documentation and conversations with ABW to provide that will be more than 2000 characters) During the month of May. Upon signing and giving my 3,250$ downpayment I was told that i had to wait while they fix the A/C of the car. When my husband went into their mechanic Bay he observed the mechanic changing transmission cooler lines and doing much other work than the A/C which still didn't work properly.. The mechanic Underfilled and damaged the transmission, we had samples of the fluid checked with a certified ******** dealership. They didn't disclose to us the vehicle was in a flood and we did not authorize the repairs after we purchased the vehicle. So the transmission is well on it's way out and has causes severe safety issues and almost caused me to get into an accident. there is no way the vehicle was safe or road ready. On top of that the entire interior of the car is covered in black mold under the upholstery due to it being a flood car and having tons of leaks. So for the past 2-3 months My husband has had to pay for rentals because they won't provide a loaner while they are working on the car. I and my husband have lost time at work because of this. The last time they repaired or worked on the vehicle they tried to say the motor mounts were causing the transmission to skip, freeze up and sputter, which my husband said couldn't be the case and he has worked on helicopters and automobiles both in and out of the army. Now they say they trade a car of our choosing for the unsafe vehicle they sold me. Upon them trying to get an approval for the new vehicle we have chosen they are trying to finance the entire amount of the new vehicle and pretty much just keep my downpayment, on top of not reimbursing us for 3,000+ of rental fees and continuing shady tactics. They already have a lawsuit with the attorney general. Can provide substantiating documents upon request.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/23/2024

  We have reviewed the complaint referenced above.  We also reviewed the transaction and the vehicle’s service history.  We have worked diligently with Ms. ******’s boyfriend and Ms. ****** to resolve their concerns.
  
  The vehicle was a 2010 ******** which, due to being 14 years old, was sold in AS-IS, after passing the ***** inspection, ABW’s multi-step redundant inspections including a third-party inspection and a State of Connecticut Emissions Inspection performed by a technician certified by the ***** ** ***********, and a QC inspection on the day of delivery.  These 5 inspections performed before selling the vehicle, including the QC inspection performed immediately before the vehicle was delivered, ensure ABW that all of the over 63,000 vehicles we have sold are safe for the road.  Ms. ****** signed the ** form *****, acknowledging that the ******** was fit for operation on ** highways at the time of purchase. 
  
  Work performed before the vehicle was sold included all inspections listed above, an oil change was performed, fluids were topped off, the brake pads and rotors were replaced, the transmission cooler lines were replaced, the climate control head was replaced, the vehicles refrigerant was evacuated and recharged, and all four tires were replaced. 
  
  Ms. ****** declined the purchase of a service contract for the 14-year-old vehicle, and signed multiple times acknowledging that she would be responsible for any repairs the older vehicle would need going forward.
  
  Several weeks later, the vehicle was brought to ABW’s Service Center with transmission concerns and stated there was metal in the transmission fluid. ABW agreed to look at the vehicle, regardless of the AS-IS sale. Practically all communication regarding the vehicle has been with Ms. ******’s boyfriend.  He explained that he brought the vehicle to Stephen ********, and they had verified his concerns.  ABW has not been able to verify the concerns. The transmission was thoroughly inspected, and it is operating as designed.  The fluid was strained, and no metal was found in the fluid. The cooler lines were properly in place.  Puzzled, ABW’s Service Manager called ******* ******** to request copies of their inspection results, and he was told the vehicle has never been to their facilities.  Ms. ******’s boyfriend later added a concern that the alternator had failed, and that the vehicle had black mold. Multiple ABW techs inspected the vehicle for these concerns and neither of them could be verified.  ABW then paid for an inspection sublet from a third-party shop.  They were also unable to verify the concerns.
  

  Regardless of being unable to verify any problems with the 14-year-old AS-IS vehicle, ABW offered to simply unwind the sale.  However, Ms. ******’s boyfriend instead selected an older (also AS-IS) **** from ABW’s inventory and insisted on switching to the **** against ABW’s advice.  He was counseled regarding the risk of buying an older ****.  It has been explained that older ****’s break and when they break, they are very expensive to repair.  He explained that his friend is an A-level **** tech who will fix the vehicle if needed.
  
  Ms. ******'s boyfriend set the plan to exchange the ******** for the **** the week of 9/8, however the complaint filed by Ms. ****** to BBB made it clear she did not understand that she was indeed receiving full credit for her down payment, as the payoff on her current loan was reduced by her down payment amount and ABW agreed to buy the ******** back for the same sale price at which it was sold. The option to simply return the vehicle was also repeated. Since the complaint was filed to BBB, this was again explained to both Ms. ******'s boyfriend and also to Ms. ****** and due to Ms. ******'s poor credit, ABW worked extensively to gain an approval for another vehicle.  Since the week of 9/8, Ms. ******'s boyfriend has made multiple appointments to come in with his girlfriend (the actual owner) to either return the vehicle of to exchange it for another.  None of these appointments have been kept. 

  ABW has gone miles above and beyond its obligations to Ms. ****** for the sale of this 14-year-old vehicle and it cannot continue to do work or hold an offer to return or replace a vehicle which was sold several months ago.  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/25/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  see attached video of black mold coming through paneling. It’s much worse under. There’s no way someone looked at the interior and inspected it.  Ive been working a lot of hours as im a manager at ******** and sometimes get called in so its tough to leave my job to continue to work on correcting something that shouldn’t have been an issue in the first place.  The video alone proves the black mold issue. And when my husband and I spoke with one of their finance people originally, he said we weren’t getting the full amount back. And we can provide ****o for that as well. But that changed when the GM confirmed the next day after the original complaint that I was getting my down payment back, only after I filed a complaint did that change though. We rescheduled for this Wednesday because it’s my only day off, also the we never said whatever the name of the place the owner mentioned in his message. It was only assumed that because my husband said he had an A level tech look at it. I also have been looking through their vehicles and asked to know which ones are good and which ones aren’t before I look at it, this way we don’t end up back in the same situation for selling an undisclosed flood/unsafe/damaged black mold vehicle. If I knew this car had even the slightest amount of issues that it does have. I would have went elsewhere.
  and it also is starting to seem as if the owner is taking all this personal after reading the response from Mr.Gorbecki. Also, I wanted to mention, all the same things he just sent in that last response, were all similar lies told to past consumers who have won cases against his business for the same exact reasons. The video that is attached is the one that was sent from my husband to the GM, he also said that my husband wouldnt have to de panel the vehicle because what he saw on video was also more than enough to prove our findings. I have my appointment today with them, hopefully we can come to an agreement because otherwise i have to take another route to recoupe all the money i have wasted because i was sold a not road ready, unsafe vehicle with malfunctions they tried to hide. I even asked if the car was ever in a flood or has any current issues or damage. Everything was an improper and shoddy repair if they truly did, My door handles were super glued on, I found that out after two days when the whole handle came off. They already have a pile of lawsuits, won cases and more against them. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** ******

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/25/2024

  For some reason it wont let me attach and send the file video of the mold. I know for a fact the GM has it, i have copies on my phone as well if y'all can send me an email address i can send all the supporting documents and videos!

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/28/2024

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  We purchased a **** ******** from this dealership. As we were driving home from the lot we noticed the car pulling to the left and a burning smell with smoke in the driver side front tire. We returned the car to the service dept where they said the brake was "locked", and claimed they fixed it. Two days later the same thing happened, we brought it to a real garage who showed us that it had not been fixed because it was so rusted together that it was impossible to get the brake off the rotor, in fact they said the entire underside of the car was almost one solid piece of rust and was rotting through and they refused to do anymore work. I called the dealership and was told that since I had not purchased the extended warrantee there was nothing they could do. The rust issue became serious when I was driving and the tire broke off the car completely, I narrowly avoided an accident. When the tow truck arrived and saw the condition of the vehicle he refused to tow it and we had to pay for a flatbed instead, we were well over an hour from our house and this cost a fortune! I again called the dealership and the person in service responded with " we do minor repairs, what do you want me to do?". This was just the start of this nightmare. Additionally, the stabilizer rod rusted through and snapped in half, we lost control of the vehicle and had to run off on the side of the road, The tie rods, the water pump, the radiator and the transmission have all broke, the air conditioning does not work and the heat only works on the right side. The car will not go over 20 miles per hour and now the steering has gone out and lastly the frame is cracked. We are not able to use this vehicle anymore, we tried to trade it in but no dealership will touch it. We owe two more years of payments on this car. We can't afford to finance another vehicle while still making payments on this Jeep. It would appear that the ** ** ** has filed a suit against them as well due to their dangerous cars.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/09/2024

  We have received the complaint filed by **** ******** and we researched the transaction and service history.
  
  The vehicle was a 2011 **** which was purchased April 3, 2021 with an odometer reading of *****.  The vehicle was sold AS-IS because it was ten years old at the time of sale.  The vehicle passed the ***** inspection, ABW’s multi-step redundant inspections including a third-party inspection and a State of *********** Emissions Inspection performed by a technician certified by the State of ***********, and a QC inspection on the day of delivery.  These 5 inspections performed before selling the vehicle, including the QC inspection performed immediately before the vehicle was delivered, ensure ABW that all the over 63,000 vehicles we have sold are safe for the road. **** ******** signed the ** form *****, acknowledging that the **** was fit for operation on ** highways at the time of purchase. 
  
  Work performed before the vehicle was sold included all inspections listed above, an oil change was performed, fluids were topped off, the rear axle seals were replaced, the rear wheel bearings were replaced, front and back brake pads and brake rotors were replaced, the parking brake shoes and hardware were replaced, the front and rear shocks were replaced, the right rear brake caliper was replaced, the front tie bars and tie rods were replaced, wiring was repaired for a rear marker light, the clock spring was replaced, and an alignment was performed.
  
  **** ******** declined the option to purchase a service agreement with the vehicle and signed multiple times acknowledging that he would be responsible for any repairs the vehicle would need going forward.
  
  On April 20, 2021, the vehicle was brought to ABW’s service facility with concerns related to the right front brake caliper.  Regardless of having sold the vehicle AS-IS, and **** ******** declining the purchase a service contract, ABW replaced the brake caliper at no charge under its Good Will Policy.  During that visit ABW also re-aimed the vehicle’s headlights, replaced the recline handle on the passenger seat and addressed a radio reception concern by replacing the antenna.  ABW did not charge **** ******** for any of these items.  This is the last and only time the vehicle has been back to ABW and Mrs. ******** has not called ABW since the Good Will repairs made in April 2021.
  
  While researching the vehicle’s service history, it was noted that a Carfax entry shows an odometer reading of ****** last fall.  The vehicle was sold in 2021 with ***** miles.

  ABW cannot make repairs free of charge to a vehicle it sold three and a half years ago.  However if the Deraleau's would like ABW to look at the vehicle and suggest repair options, they are welcome to text or call TJ Ciocca at ###-###-####.  He will do his best to accommodate them.
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/13/2024

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  The week I had bought my car From A better Way Wholesales Auto in ********* ** , the check engine light had come on ,they said they did an inspection before selling me my car but there was no inspection done and they failed to meet safety regulations. Through them I have a *********** warranty, so I brought my car in for repairs and they did a fuel pump I got the car back after it had been in for 2 weeks , and a week goes by check engine light comes on again, I brought it back they did a cam shaft actuator, fuel injectors, wiring terminals , wiring harness , and a computer a PCM . They had my car for 1 month . I got the car back at the end of that month and the check engine light came on the next morning .I have an **** 2016 ** I brought it to an **** dealership to do only a diagnostic and see what’s going on because I did not want to bring it back to a better way wholesale auto , and the **** shop in ******* wrote me a whole report of everything going on with the vehicle . Every single repair that A better Way Wholesales Auto did to “fix” the car made it worse . All the wiring is messed up in the car said by the **** shop mechanic the fuel pump is wrong the camshaft is in the wrong position and they sold me the car with the wrong coolant for my car and the **** shop mechanic said they filled it up with half water half coolant it’s the wrong consistency and wrong coolant . It’s missing the under belly pan, the **** shop mechanic couldn’t believe what they did to the vehicle .there is zip ties everywhere and the wires are all done the wrongway in addition because they failed to inspect the vehicle before selling it to me the **** repair man said that the timing chain can fail at any point in time it’s at -10.5. Ever since I bought this car there had been issues and I’ve been paying car insurance that’s 470 a month and I haven’t even been able to drive it at all because A Better way wholesales auto failed to do an inspection before selling me this vehicle .

  Business Response

  Date: 09/03/2024

  We have reviewed the complaint referenced above. We also reviewed the transaction and the vehicle’s service history. We have found the following:
  The vehicle was a 2016 **** with an odometer reading of 95,490 which was sold AS-IS May 3, 2024, due to being 8 years old.  It was sold after passing the ***** inspection, ABW’s multi-step redundant inspections, including a third-party inspection and a State of *********** Emissions Inspection performed by a technician certified by the State of ***********, and a QC inspection on the day of delivery.  These 5 inspections performed before selling the vehicle, including the QC inspection performed immediately before the vehicle was delivered, ensure ABW that all of the over 63,000 vehicles we have sold are safe for the road. Tarin signed the ** form *****, acknowledging that the **** was fit for operation on CT highways at the time of purchase.  The vehicle was sold AS-IS, however Tarin purchased a service contract for the 8 year old ****.
  Work performed before the vehicle was sold included all inspections listed above, an oil change was performed, fluids were topped off, the front and rear brake pads and brake rotors were replaced, as were both front lower control arms, the engine camshaft actuators as well as the turbo line gaskets.
  Work performed under the service contract included the replacement of a fuel pump, replacement of the fuel injectors, and replacement of the vehicle’s PCM and wiring (including PCM programming performed by local **** dealer). This repair visit spanned a month’s time, most of which was waiting for **** parts. The repairs were made free of charge.
  Since July, 25, 2024 the vehicle has not been back to ABW for service and Tarin has not shared any concerns.  However, the complaint refers to fears related to the timing chain. If there are concerts currently, Tarin is encouraged to call or text TJ, ABW’s General Manager, at ###-###-####.  He will be happy to resolve them.
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/05/2024

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This business sold me a car that they told me passed safety inspection which turned out not to be true at all. Ever since buying this car i have had nothing, but problems with it. Within the first week the engine light came on showing emissions and faulty brake switch codes. I told them about it and they said i had to bring it to the **** dealer myself. The car was driving weird so they actually took it in and repaired a broken tie rod, but i had to pay for a rental car for over a week and would not reimburse me. This car has no working horn which i also told them about, but would not offer any help in fixing this which is very unsafe as i cannot warn other drivers if they are about to hit me. The car also had a broken engine mount which caused it to shake extremely bad to the point where i couldn't drive it anymore. Between repairs and rental cars, i have paid close to $2000 and all of the issues still are not fixed. All i wanted was a reliable car so i could get back and forth to work and they sold me a car that was completely unsafe and knew about it the whole time while convincing me that it was perfectly fine. I don't want this car anymore as the repairs are seeming to be endless and i don't feel safe driving it.

  Business Response

  Date: 08/09/2024

  We have reviewed the complaint referenced above. We have also reviewed the transaction and the vehicle’s service history. Following is what was discovered:
  The vehicle was a 2017 **** which was sold to *** ***** on April 28, 2023.   The vehicle passed the ***** inspection, ABW’s multi-step and redundant inspections, a third-party inspection and a ***** ** *********** ********* Inspection performed by a technician certified by the State of ************ and a QC inspection on the day of delivery. These 5 inspections performed before selling the vehicle, including the QC inspection performed immediately before the vehicle was delivered, ensure ABW that all of the over 63,000 vehicles we have sold are safe for the road.  These 5 inspections are performed on every vehicle that ABW sells.  *** ***** signed the ** form *****, acknowledging that the vehicle was fit for operation on ** highways at the time of purchase.  *** ***** elected to purchase a service contract with the vehicle.

  Work performed before the vehicle was sold includes all inspections listed above, oil filter and engine oil replacement, all fluids were topped off, the glove box was replaced, and the horn was replaced.

  May 25, 2023, the vehicle was brought to ABW’s service center with an intermittent check engine light.  At no charge to *** *****, ABW replaced the leak detection pump and spark plugs. The vehicle then displayed a code for the catalytic converter. The vehicle was still under its 8 year / 80,000mile federal emissions warranty.  ABW informed *** ***** and offered to bring the vehicle to a **** dealer.  She opted to take the vehicle to the **** dealer herself at her convenience.  There was no mention of the horn not working at that time, though a tie rod end was replaced, and an alignment was performed during the visit in response to *** *****’s complaint of the vehicle wandering.  This was done at no charge to *** *****, who's complaint mentioned paying (a third-party shop, assumably) for repairs, though her car has coverage for the items she mentioned through her service contract.  The vehicle's service records do not indicate that *** ***** brought the vehicle to a **** dealer to have the catalytic converter replaced while it was still under its federal 8yr/80,000-mile warranty, which is puzzling.

  The visit above was the only time *** ***** brought the vehicle to ABW for service and she has never contacted ABW since. If *** ***** needs help with the ****, we encourage her to reach TJ C*****, ABW’s General Manager, by calling or texting ###-###-####. He will do his best to accommodate her.
  
  

  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/15/2024

  
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because what was said was done doesn't make sense and is not true. What is puzzling to me is that they claim to have replaced the horn for my vehicle before i received it yet ever since i have had the vehicle the horn has not worked. It also doesn't make sense that it passed their inspection when about a day or 2 later the engine light came on and a tie rod was broken along with a catalytic converter code so clearly it was not safe to drive yet they sold it anyway. When they replaced the tie rod i told them about the horn, but basically said they wouldn't do anything because i had not mentioned it when i first received the vehicle. I also never said that i would voluntarily bring the car to the **** dealer myself. You guys told me you were the ones that had to do it and that i would have to bring the car to you before my appointment. When i got my car back after you fixed the tie rod and whatever else, the engine light came back on then all of a sudden you told me that I had to bring the car to the **** dealer myself. At that time i tried to call and see if you would at least reimburse me for the rental car that i had to get while you had my car for at least a week which you declined to do. I also tried to call the gap insurance that i was told i should purchase, but they told me that you guys had to finish the paperwork on your end before they could approve any work being done. When i called to inquire with you about this i was basically told that gap doesn't do anything except for if my car is totaled. After trying to get help from you guys multiple times i gave up and took care of things myself. 

  Sincerely,

  
  **** *****