Following my initial expression of interest in a car, Austin advised that because I was unable to view the car until the following weekend, I could pay a £200 holding fee on the vehicle. He assured me that this fee would be refunded as long as I came to test drive the vehicle.At no point before the test drive did I commit to purchasing the vehicle. I don’t think most people would commit to buying a car without seeing it.After the test drive I explained that I had another appointment to view a different car, at which point Austin remarked that had he known, he would not have taken the £200 holding fee. As a single woman I found Austin’s manner to be both unprofessional and intimidating.I contacted them the next day to say I had decided not to buy the car due to my overall experience and the atmosphere during my visit. I asked for my £200 to be refunded to me which was met with hostility. I have since purchased a vehicle from another dealer where the experience was significantly more positive and extremely professional.The money has still not been refunded. I have now filed a court claim against them after they have failed to contact me to resolve the matter.I would not advise anybody to buy a car from them and certainly do not pay any money in advance of a test drive. They have it seems other court cases pending from other unhappy customers.I’m sure they will try to discredit me or say it was all a misunderstanding but they have taken £200 and not returned it which boils down to theft.
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Phoenix Cars is a used car dealer in Winchester stocking a wide range of second hand cars at great prices. Visit us today for affordable used cars in Hampshire.
