Ferman BMW of Palm Harbor

by GracefulReviews on 04/03/2023

My experience with Ferman BMW started off well, but it quickly transformed into a nightmare. On Tuesday morning, March 28, 2023, I messaged this dealership through their website regarding a used 2020 Jaguar F-PACE I wanted to test drive. A rep called me right away and said the car was available, so I set up an appointment for 4pm that day since I lived almost 2 hours away. I arrived at around 3:40pm, and the sales rep attempted to find the car. I was not offered a seat or anything to drink, which was surprising, but I also figured that the wait would not be long. Six minutes later, my phone rang, but I dismissed the call since I thought the sales rep would be back any moment with the keys. I stood around for 10+ minutes until the sales rep returned and explained that the car had a deposit on it, and the potential new owners were currently driving it. He took my information down in case the deal fell through, and I headed to my car disappointed. This is when the situation went south. When I was in the parking lot, I received a text from a different sales associate who explained that she had just tried to call me (it was the call I dismissed at 3:46pm) because she had just learned the same information that the other sales rep shared with me. I texted her back and politely asked her why I didn’t have first dibs since I had set up an appointment in the morning. She said the deposit came through on Saturday, and the internet department was not on-site to confirm if the car was still available. Essentially, a deposit had been placed on the car 3 days before I set up my appointment, and the person I spoke with that morning did not mention that to me at all. In fact, she told me the car was 100% available. I am a marketing leader with nearly 2 decades of experience, so I have a strong understanding of the tools and resources that allow departments to align on data like this—regardless of whether they are on-site or not. Ferman BMW’s annual revenue is estimated at $36M a year with 140 employees, so they should have the infrastructure and means to implement the software and headcount needed to accurately communicate interdepartmentally. This so-called “miscommunication” is highly unlikely. Instead, this “misunderstanding” is most likely a feeble attempt to lure me to the dealership in an effort to upsell me for a larger profit. I lost time and money driving 4 hours (round trip) to Ferman BMW, but you don’t have to make the same mistake. I ended up contacting Gettel Toyota of Lakewood about a different Jaguar F-PACE, and the first thing the sales rep did when I arrived was offer me a seat and a drink. A few minutes later, I test drove the Jaguar. Minutes after that, I bought it. If you’re looking for a used car, I recommend you find a dealership who doesn’t have this type of “miscommunication.”

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by Mike s on 12/05/2020

This review was written while sitting in the waiting room. Automated ... that’s the word for this place. It’s sad really ... my cars buying experience was great! No complaints. Now my car breaks weekly and they find it acceptable that have to come in and get service. They do “fix it”. But then it all falls apart. What’s funny is that I get texts while my car is in the shop asking about it LAST service and if I was satisfied. Well ... shocker I am not. No one seems to understand the issue.... if I got a rental care while it gets “fixed” that’s ok ... The service center needs an overhaul. While I understand BMW (as a company) has to make decisions about how this works ... the dealership is NOT helpful in this process. I am on my own to file my own lemon law paperwork. I even offered to pay to get this car out of my life ... apparently that is not an option either. It’s funny once they sell you a car they don’t want to sell you another one? It appears low tier and uneducated people are making informed decisions about how make a customer happy. If you want to drop big money on a car. Please don’t do it it here. Your happiness will turn into a frown and your life will be upside-down. These are my own personal opinions please do not materially rely on them to influence your decision. Again this is related to my experience and yours maybe different.

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by Stefanie Acosta on 03/10/2020

I purchased a certified pre-owned BMW X3 in January from Ferman BMW, at time of purchase I was extremely concerned that the car was not large enough for my family, but was convinced I was incorrect. Upon getting the car home I immediately realized that my concerns were correct and the vehicle was indeed too small. I reached out to Aleks my salesperson as quickly as possible the very next morning to see if there was a chance I could return the vehicle or swap for another used vehicle that would work for my family. I was assured that I would be taken care of but as he was heading out of town another seller would be reaching out to help. Well that help came in the form of one text message telling me they could not help me. I have since found out that the vehicle is worth less than 50% of what I was charged for it and I am stuck and not able to trade it in. I believe Ferman should do the right thing and help me get into a vehicle that works for my family and give me a fair value when trading in this vehicle, I can understand if I go slightly upside down to move into a different larger vehicle, but nearly 50% in value is not acceptable on a car that I've only had approximately 6 weeks. I need their help to make this situation right.

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by AlexHamlin on 12/09/2017

Bobby Haines, the business manager at Ferman BMW left me with a completely bad taste of the Ferman organization. I had called in and spoke with Bobby to ask about certain warranties and he was clearly annoyed with my inquires. At one point on the phone call I asked him if I was bothering him and if there was someone else I should speak to?! He rushed me off the phone and said he would email information regarding prepaid maintainence. Sadly, that email never came!!! I called Reeves and Jennifer was amazing and got me into contact with her professional business manager who helped me complete my service plan over the phone! Sorry to report- but stay away from Ferman BMW - business is so good that customer service seems to be an expendable option!

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by jsg931931 on 05/05/2017

We purchased a CPO BMW from Ferman BMW of Palm Harbor. Our Client Adviser was Kenny Russell. He was amazing! He was professional, friendly, and responsive. The whole dealership was professional and friendly. Buy from Kenny!

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by ElaineP on 03/05/2017

The experience I had at Ferman BMW is probably the best experience I have had at a car dealership. I worked with Jamie Byrd and Toby Pacuch and both were extremely professional and worked hard to ensure I got the deal (and the car) I wanted. Jamie worked long and hard to get the deal and Toby followed up with his excellent knowledge of the car and its functions. Thanks guys...I shall certainly recommend you to anyone who is looking to get a new vehicle

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by Leo335i on 02/15/2017

I had a great experience buying my used 2014 BMW 335i at Ferman BMW! Steve absolutely sold me on the car and the genius, Toby, was very insightful on how to work the cars features! As a recent college grad, Steve made sure to help me get a great price and went above and beyond to make sure I was fully satisfied when I drove off the lot!

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by Babynaj on 01/31/2017

Alex S. is the best BMW genius there is! I would recommend anyone buying a vehicle from Ferman's request Alex. He is very professional, he doesn't carry his phone when dealing with a client. He gives you all the attention you need, he takes his time to explain and has the answers to all your questions. When he is finished answering your questions he will ask you what is your next question. This is because he has all the answers, afterall...... He is a genius!

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by Jessica on 01/12/2017

Excellent teamwork and attention to detail. Kenny Russell provided us with such a pleasant car buying experience and knew exactly what we were looking for!

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by cmnewman28 on 01/07/2017

Most folks shopping for vehicles dread the stereotypical car salesman that approaches you because you've shopped more than one dealer already. You've smelled the cigarette smelling salesperson who hunts you down on the lot and in the first 30 seconds asks you how much you want to spend. I've been on that date and it didn't work out too well. Likewise, I dreaded when I was approached by an unknown salesperson named Kenny at Ferman BMW. To my surprise, Kenny was humble, polite, professional, honest and in no way invasive. I cannot say enough good things about how impressed and relieved I was to have ended up with Kenny as my salesperson. If you are looking for a person who is informative, blatantly honest, and one that puts your interests first, buy from Kenny. I live 45 minutes from that dealership, but Kenny is worth the drive.

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by Arlene_Jo on 01/02/2017

We've been leasing 3 series BMWs through Ferman since the early 2000's. The product is excellent and our experience with Ferman has been consistently first rate from the very start. The sales, financing and service staff could not be more professional and accommodating.

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by Jessica19 on 12/30/2016

Mr. Brian Gains sets the bar for the car buying experience! Because of the expertise and patience of Mr. Gains, the process could not have been smoother for me. In a day where customer service is limited, this experience could not have been more personalized. It was the first time I left a dealership feeling very satisfied and whole. Thank you to Mr. Gains for the excellent experience.

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by JS_Maz_TampBay on 12/27/2016

Thank you Brian Gains of Ferman BMW for making the buying experience great. Brian is very knowledgeable, professional, courteous, and made sure that our experience was truly exceptional. We appreciate the outstanding customer service. Thank you

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by shannietannie on 12/27/2016

Let's be honest - the car buying experience can be frustrating and I was dreading the process. Brain Gaines at Ferman BMW made the experience seamless. He listened to my needs and came up with perfect car for me in my price range on the first try. I was shocked! The entire process took less than 3 hours and I drove off the lot a very happy customer. Highly, highly recommend Brian Gaines and Ferman BMW for your next car.

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by Ratatouille on 12/24/2016

A very pleasant and relaxed experience. Kenny is quite knowledgeable about his BMWs. Would have liked a better price, but hey, they must make a profit. They kept my car for a month before we moved. Great service

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by Electric8 on 12/22/2016

This car has been trouble-prone since I began my lease. I've always felt this dealer is not "all in" when it comes to electric vehicles. Service visits that should take a few hours always end up being a few days. I appreciate the beautiful loaner cars and the nice people, but a lack of commitment to EV's has soured my opinion of BMW electrics.

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by HawkFinancial on 12/21/2016

The service agent Joe called the day after I bought the car and asked if I would like the windows tinted and then followed up a few week later and we set a convenient appointment with a loaner. Time frame and price offered were adhered to and when I picked it up after 5:30 the service people in new cars and loaner cars were very helpful along with the lady in the little store.

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by Mrspratt on 12/13/2016

Steve Bender is courteous, efficient and friendly , but most of all he knows EVERYTHING about BMW cars. He showed me all the features of the 440i that I test drove and no doubt helped me decide that the car was right for me. I LOVE MY CAR. Thanks Steve

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by MinnieGirl on 12/08/2016

Nick Hawk is my service adviser and has always taken the time to answer my questions which I really appreciate. The waiting room is exceptional and the staff is always friendly.

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by SUZZQUE on 12/05/2016

Due for oil change and right tail light and blinker were intermittently not working; also car security alarm going off every day at random times. There we a short in the security alarm and replaced the rear light and blinker. I have a leased vehicle and everything was covered. Supplied with a loaner car; everything was great and efficient. Everyone I had contact with were professional.

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by Texasgirl on 11/27/2016

I bought a used 2011 BMW X5 with 32k miles last December 2014, the sales person was great I thought everything was explained to us after all we've been a BMW owner since the last 20 years. First time oil changed service was done on November 2015 at Ferman where I bought the SUV, no problem. Again I took my truck this month November 18, 2016 for oil change at the dealer Ferman, then service rep clalled me and informed me that the oil pan was stripped and that it cost $3,000 to fix it in case it needs fixing. I asked him what causes to have the oil pan stripped, he told me because of the multiple oil change that it happens, I never of this issue after 20 years of driving BMW, I told him if that happens it is because of the their technician working on this truck either not careful, for sure its not me. Who else will work on this except technician at dealer . Now I have to pay for their mistakes 3000k. They will never admit it that they messed up, at least a surgeon will admit if they happened to cut the wrong organs. So the oil change was not done because I have to fork out 3000k plus....now what I'm going to do . If anyone can give me their opinion really appreciate it.

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