My quest for a GS led me to CL. I researched a bit, and found an LS at the same dealer (Sewell Fort Worth). I posted a cliff notes version in the GS section, but here's my LS story-

Started my search online, found the CPO '03 GS300 and what seemed like a great deal for an '01 UL. The GS was listed at $27k, the UL a bargain at $24.8K. I visited Sewell a couple of times after-hours to look the cars over unimpeded. My wife (7 months pregnant) and I visited the dealership one evening to visit with a salesperson and look at the cars. We met Craig Sneed and he welcomed us to the dealership, and invited us to look at the cars. 15 seconds into the GS, and my wife says "It's too small. I know you love the car, but it's too small back here." And there ended the GS, and began the LS.

Black on black 2001 IL, 58K miles, stunning condition and listed at a bargain price of $24,888. We take it on a drive, and I'm hooked.

Back to the dealer, and we sit down to hash out the deal. And then I notice a problem. I'm looking on his computer at the listing of the car, and the price is considerably higher, originally $32K and reduced to $28.7K.. Hmmm.. They explain the girl who takes the photos put the UL photos on two listings, the correct one, and a bare-bones (if there is such a thing) LS. In comes the sales manager, and I explain that mistakes do happen, yet I wanted this car, and we drove it expecting that it was a $25K deal. The sales manager nods, and walks away. I tell Craig the number I will do, and that's it. I work in retail, and mistakes do happen. But taking care of the customer in these circumstances is good business.

We leave the dealer, and wait for the phone call. The next day, Craig calls and says they are going to make it happen. I'm amazed. I thought this was going to be a long and drawn out negotiation, but they surprised me. The night before, I was given a brochure on the Lexus extended warranty, and was quoted $1525 for a Gold 2/100,000 warranty, which seemed like a great deal to me. When I visit the dealer last Wednesday, I find that was misquoted as well. And you know what? Sewell honored that price as well.

My daughter was flying in on Friday, and I really wanted to pick her up in the new car. I've dealt with dealers who drag out the deal, but Sewell once again surprised me, and it was a done deal Friday afternoon. The weather is sketchy, so they offer to detail the car over the weekend, but I could pick it up Friday.

The delivery-


Thanks Craig!! I gotta get me one of those hats..


All cleaned up..




Yes, I got a hell of a deal on one hell of an amazing machine. But more than that, my experience with Sewell Lexus in Fort Worth has been nothing short of amazing. From start to finish, they did the right thing, and have earned a customer for life. And I will spread the word in a world where you hear 10 bad car dealer stories to every 1 good one..

Thanks Sewell Lexus, and most importantly Craig Sneed for taking such good care of my family's needs.

Todd

 

Congrats Todd, great story! Best of luck in a couple of months!

 

good deal! congrats on buying the best optioned LS430 (blk on blk UL)

 

Great deal and car!

 

Beautiful car, love the color combination. I've had great experience with Sewell Lexus parts department myself.


Glad to see you in the LS forums, welcome

 

Congrats on your new LS, looks great

 

Boomer Sooner, btw..

I grew up in Norman.

T

Thanks for all the kind comments..

 

Congrats!!! What did you end up paying as a sale price on the car alone, $27,000.00?

 

A bit less.. but not much less. About $800 more than KBB's trade in value.

Todd