DISQUS

Jerry · 9 months ago

This is a list of events that took place at The Danvers location over three years ago now, I had Googled dealership documention fee's for research and discovered this forum and could not resist to post this email which describes the list of events in detail. It seems to concur with the majority here and I am amazed that the general public supports the behavior by continueing to complain and ultimately to return with the misconception of saving a buck!!.

The following is the list of events as they occurred on the evening of September 27, 2005 at Herb Chambers Dodge in Danvers.

At approximately 6:15pm I was called upon by the General Sales Manager, William Lee to assist Matthew Fallows in the sale of a Dodge Ram pickup truck.
Shortly there after I would meet Robert Frost who would be the person attempting the purchase.

After meeting Mr. Frost I qualify his needs and there level of importance. Mr. Frost will share that he has interest in keeping the monies at where they are currently which is a payment of approximately $730.00. he would like to obtain this payment with little if any out of pocket cash and to include a remote starter like his current Ram pickup truck has, which he will be trading in and was part of his last purchase from Herb Chambers Dodge.
I will solicit from Mr. Frost a credit card which takes the vehicle off of the market and explain that I will present his offer to William Lee and work to gain approval. After arriving at the sales desk I begin to present the offer to William Lee and at the mention of to include a remote starter I begin to be critized by the Finance Director, Mr. Joseph Dipietro. Mr. Dipietro raises his voice to me to say that we do not include remote starters and that he has to buy it himself or he can't buy the truck. I respond in saying that I have never heard of such a thing which William Lee confirms and I continue to present the figures and seek approval. I give an attempt to sell the truck at $739.00 which is slightly higher than current and to not include the remote starter, the customer would decline leaving me the choice of not selling the truck or to include the remote starter. I once again converse with William Lee, suffer more abuse from Mr. Dipietro who is now calling me weak and telling me that I suck. Nevertheless William Lee agrees to accept the offer and to sell the Ram Truck. I share the results with Mr. Frost, congratulate him and proceed to my office to respond to a page for a telephone call.
Mr. Dipiero would follow to my office to ask if I had explained to the customer that he had agreed to a twelve thousand mile per year lease now knowing that his current lease contract was at fifteen thousand miles per year. Mr. Dipietro would further explain that a salesperson by the name of Simon sold this customer his current truck and made $4,000.00 in doing so and did NOT include a remote start. Mr. Dipietro would say again how much that I was weak and that I sucked. I leave my office to return to the area of the sales desk.
Once arriving back to the sales desk Mr. Dipietro accuses me of taking his brothers personal keys which had happened some two weeks ago, I try to explain to Mr. Dipietro that I did not take his brothers keys but that it was good to know where his brother had gotten the idea from because the lord knows Joshua his brother is not capable of thinking for himself. He now begins to call me a wise ass and to say that he will take me outside and bash my head off of the grill of a car. It is at this point that Mr. Joseph Dipietro jumps at me to push me backwards with both of his hand into my chest, he grabbed me by the throat with both of his hands and had to be restrained by Frank Dalton.
Once Mr. Dipietro is restrained I leave to go back to my office and gather my personal belongings where there stands at the fax machine Jim Klimas the General Manager. I explain to Mr. Klimas that I am going home to be asked why what's wrong? Joey just grabbed me by the throat because we included a remote starter to sell a truck. What? Jim would leave the office and I would proceed to gather what pictures of my family and other personal belongings that were kept in the office.
Leaving the showroom I notice that Jim Klimas coming out of Mr. Dipietro's office and has already finished his discussion with him.
I proceed to leave my place of employment where I have dedicated nearly seven years.

I arrive home at approximately 7:30pm explain to my wife what had taken place.
At approximately 9:15pm Mr. Dipietro calls my home to apologize for his actions and that he hopes that I will return to work and he also knew that I had not taken his brothers personal keys.
Mr. Dipietro would call again at near 10:00 pm to again explain that how sorry that he is and that we are suppose to be friends he is going to go to anger management classes and that I should golf the following day that he will not be attending, I insist that I will not be golfing.
Later that same evening Mr. Klimas call at approximately 10:30pm to question what had taken place and to explain that Joey Dipietro had been going through a hard time as it was the one year anniversary of his father's death, he would further explain that he was not making excuses that Mr. Dipietro was wrong in what he had done. Mr. Klimas would also explain that he believed that Joshua had hidden his own keys so that he could borrow a used Chrysler 300C. Mr. Klimas would also make an attempt to convince me golf the following morning now knowing that Joey Dipietro had said that he was going to anger management, Jim Klimas was ignorant to what anger management was and I would attempt to explain it to him. He was going to call Joey and that he would call me right back.
Mr. Klimas would call again at now nearly 11:30pm to discuss the Red Sox game and explain that he wishes that I would play golf in the morning. I further insist that I won't be playing golf tomorrow.
September 29, 2005 Mr. Klimas would call to wonder why that I was not at work.
September 30, 2005 William Lee would call to ask questions of vehicles inventoried and there status, he would ask what my situation was and would understand that if I did not return. He would also if there were would be anything that he could do for me tot hesitate.
On October 3, 2005 I submit that I am resigning the Used Car Manager position for Herb Chambers Dodge which I have held for nearly two years. From a company which I have dedicated nearly seven years and have succeeded in numerous management positions.
On October 6, 2005 I file a criminal complaint against Joseph Dipietro for physical assault and treats to do bodily harm. Scheduled to appear on November 2, 2005
On October 14, 2005 Mr. Dipietro would call both my home and cell phone numbers several times to eventually leave a message on my cell phone voice mail asking my intentions and my motive.
November 2, 2005 I have left Salem District Court where I have failed to meet the burden of proof, Mr. Dipietro sat proudly present with an attorney, a "witness", and signed affidavit's from four members of the sales staff, along with an affidavit from a Peabody police officer who was somewhere in the showroom and herd yelling but did not witness the physical assault.

Sincerely,
Jerry


People seldom use the word WAR when it comes to performing their profession. I can't emphasize to you enough, I feel although I may have lost battles over the years or turned the other cheek to not create a war.
I have described to you a list of events that did occur and although I left that courthouse today somewhat humiliated in my lack of preparation and knowledge of the proceedings. I am more embarrassed by the fact that I have spent so many years of my life working for a Company and spending so much personal time with people that would encourage such proceedings.

Keith · 6 months ago

Bill, too obvious

Gretchen · 6 months ago

Having terrible problems with our car from the Burlington Herb Chambers Honda. Every time they return our car to us with more problems than we started with. At this point we don't know what to do! In the three years that we've had our Honda Civic Si, only the first year was problem free... Terrible organization, I wish that I could stop every poor soul that wanders in there and WARN THEM!

EX EMPLOYEE · 6 months ago

HERB nEEDS TO GET RID OF THE GM AT TOYOTA OF BOSTON HE TREATS THE EMPLOYEES LIKE CRAP AND I ALS0 THINK HE IS THE MOST PREDJUDICED PERSON IN THIS WORLD HE THINKS HE IS THE GREATEST BUT I THINK HERB CAN DO A LOT BETTER THAN HIM

ADAM · 7 months ago

I WAS IN TOYOTA OF AUBURN LAST WEEKEND AND WALKED OUT. I WATCHED AN OLDER GENTLEMEN WITH THINING GRAY HAIR AND ABOUT SIX FEET TALL YELL AND SWEAR AT A SALES PERSON FOR LETTING THE CUSTOMER PARK THERE TRADE IN THE HANDICAP PARKING SPOT. KEEP IN MIND THIS CUSTOMER HAD A HANDICAP SIGN IN THE WONDOW. I GUESS THIS IS THE TYPE OF PLACE EVERYONE TALKED ABOUT.

Mack · 7 months ago

I am recently unemployed and had been considering the a career in the automobile business in sales. I have done alot of reasearch looking for jobs and chambers has a few openings so I thought I might apply.I stumbled upon this blog about herb chambers and was knocked back on my heels.
Whats it really like working for a HC company.
Which one is the best to work for. Can anyone recommend a reputable dealership I could contact..
I am over 50 years old with experince in acustomer service industry. Would that be a detriment?

CodyRidley · 6 months ago

Based on what I'm reading here - you could either go in and try to make a difference, or seek employment with another more reputable auto group.

Shari · 6 months ago

Mack,

Go to Dealer Rater.com and search out the Prime Motor Group...You will find that they are a truly reputable company that take customer and employee satisfaction to a a whole new level...I wish you luck in your search. The automotive industry is a rewarding and exciting industry and I have enjoyed it for over 20 years!

sdoran@primemotorgroup.com

scott · 7 months ago

i bought a car from herb chambers cadillac in providence RI 2 years ago. i had electrical problems since. The car has been in their shop several times with no success. The last time in the shop approx 25 days, no success. But the car came back to me with a smashed up front end and real bad cover up job! I met with the general manager ( Larry Skinner ), and the service manager ( Dana Parenteau ) and there respose was " not our problem, take the car and sell it if you dont like it". I've since spoke with channel 7 on your side, Channel 10 eye witness team, R.I.DMV, and the attorney General with all possitive responses. I will be back in touch with results, Scott

Brendan · 8 months ago

Herb Chambers SUCKS! They are all slime balls at ALL of the dealerships.
Do yourselves a favor and go on dealerrater.com
Check out the dealer's rating before buying there.
I used to be a customer of Foreign Motors West in Natick, but as soon as Herb "I have too much plastic surgery and my ads suck" Chambers bought them out I never went back. I have since bought 2 cars from Prime Motor Group. I recommend you go to Prime Audi if you want an Audi. They are professional, courteous and just plain awesome.

B Jaspon · 10 months ago

I purchased a used BMW from Chambers. I had it in for service at another dealership and they noticed that the cluster tamper light was on. When they linked in to the computer system in the car they were able to determine that the car had 40,000 more miles than what was on the cluster and what Chambers told me it had.

The general manager of the Braintree store told me he was not going to do anything about the issue and corporate won't return my calls.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I worked for the HC Companies for a number of years in several capacities. I must say that I like the interaction of dealing with the public, however my experience with the company is less than desireable. I beleive that Herb is an honorable man, however is not really trully aware of the actual goings on within his dealerships, or in many cases he turns a blind eye to what makes him money, I suppose this is what happens when one becomes a billionaire.
The dealership that I worked for did not drug test until after an employee was hired, and in many cases if they failed they were allowed to re test until they passed. They were supposed to conduct background checks and driving records, however about 50% or more had either no driving license or a felony record or both, this was routinely overlooked. Employees that were fired for drug test failures were rehired, employees fired for forging customer signitures on legal documents were rehired. Employees were routinely harrassed and verbally degraded by both managers and co workers, and this sort of behavior was commonly allowed. The working hours were ungodly and employees had no life whatsoever, if you wprked there that was to be your life, and if it was not you are blackballed......so sad but so true and so happy to be out of there. Herb or Jim if you read this please take a long hard look at your operations especially your GM's I won't say which onesm just look long and hard

Mr. Morris · 1 year ago

I've been out of the Herb Chambers Toyota location working in the BDC for about six months now. I have my life back and it feels good. In my new position I get off work at 4:30 and have my evenings to devote to my personal life and my weekends. The pain and anxiety of being there is gone. It's like being delivered from evil. Looking back the worst part about being there was having to work with this die-hard HC devotee named CK. He really knew how to get over in that culture. He was a total phony. He looked upon the customers as a commodity. He lied to get them into the showroom. Treated the rest of us in the department like we were a virus and only thought of himself. The ironic part was he was ripping off the company too. We got paid for bringing people in. Not much by the way. I don't know how much he made but they gave me $400 a week, $5.00 when the came in, and an extra $10.00 if they bought a car. I'm black and CK is white. I was floored when this black guy working at Honda told me he only made $300 a week. What CK would do every day was steal as his own walk in customers. No one questioned him. He tried to steal one of mine which is how I found out about it.. Between the time the lady first came in and when she purchased, she'd gotten married and had a name change. Not knowing she was really my customer, CK tried to steal her from me and I caught him. They didn't do anything about it. I'm a competitive person but I like a level playing field. I could never do better than CK because I refused to cheat and lie. They loved him like he was the second coming of Christ. Once when I honestly reported the reaction of a customer after following up, they wouldn't let me do it anymore. The sales manager accused me of trying to make his salesmen look like a bunch of idiots. He zeroed in on me like an heat seeking missile after that to the point where every day took one more piece out of my pride. Eventually, one day when he was going to drop the boom on me for the umpteenth time, I literally ran out of the side door and never went back there. Now I bump into a lot of the people I trained with on the street and none of them are there anymore. Like me they are happily out of that rat's nest. The only good thing I can say about working there is that my supervisor, Brian Jung, was one of the nicest people I've ever met and worked for. A real professional and a gentleman. I'm sure one day he'll come to his senses and find a position where he can make as much as he does there without having to sell his soul. CK will probably never leave. He's got his racket so fine tuned that he probably can't make an honest living anymore. One day I went into the lunch room to find one of the salesman crying. He was so hurt that he couldn't go to church because he had to work every Sunday. He was a nice guy too. I felt so bad for him we prayed together right there. I wanted to comfort him. Some of these guys have families and can't just run out the door like I did. They're the ones I feel most sorry for. Like another salesman who told me his wife calls HC "prison time". His job there separated them to often. He couldn't wait to be "released". The real shame is it doesn't have to be like that. I survived.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I will make this short annnnnd well not so sweet. Herb Chambers is all about money, always has been always will be. But to his defense he is the president of a corporation and the main function of a corporation is to generate revenue. But now and them these COE's and V.P.'s lose sight of who got them to where they are, we the customers did. Herb not only has lost sight, he is friggin blind, he has no regard for people whatsoever, consumers, employees, competitors he will do what he can to win his little game of fame and fortune. He makes himself appear to be such a wonderful person but the fact is his employees have no life and we the customers suffer from their poor attitudes due to the burnout factor. I have to laugh when I see the Chambers stores open on EVERY holiday except Christmas and Thanksgiving, oh wait they were closed on the fourth of July as well gee what a great guy...lol. I must admit I do not know the man personally and I am sure that he is a genuinely nice guy but he should take a note from the Tasca family and realize that people have families and holidays and Sundays are important to these families. Do not get me wrong it is not just Chambers but too many of these big auto groups have totally thrown away any value to family and that is a shame in todays society.

Now for my buying experience, I purchased a vehicle from one of the luxury stores in the Chambers group and all I will say is what a nightmare, I should have ran but I did not. I HAVE NEVER seen in my life what I witnessed at this dealership, the GM was in the middle of the showroom swearing and screaming at one of the sales people to "get the fuck out". I was absolutely shocked by this and my sales person was beyond embarrassed, and I did feel bad for it was not their fault. I went about my purchase and a couple months ago went back into the dealership for service and what do you know, the same GM swearing at a customer to "GET THE FUCK OUT". It seems this is the extent of his vocabulary, I assure you I will never set foot into that location again had I been that customer I would have knocked the GM out. I am not sure why herb would surround himself with this type of person but once again it must come down to money. I guess the "get the fuck out" guy must be a great GM for him for I Have found out he has been with Herb for years. I assure you that you would NEVER experience that type of behavior with the Boch, Balise or Inskip auto dealers. I could go on for hours but what's the use things will never change just felt the need to warm the public, before buying from Herb try some of his competitors and then compare. Do your homework, and do not get sucked into that extra shit they try to sell you. lastly I think we all should not buy cars on Sunday's and holiday's so that we can get the employee's of these dealers some sense of life back.

Mr. Morris · 1 year ago

Thank you for that comment. I didn't read your entry before I wrote mine. I'm Mr. Morris. It is so true. Christian men who love the Lord have to almost sneak to church on Sunday and if they come in late they get read the riot act and are threatened with termination. Men with mouths to feed. Like the guy I had to pray with in the lunch room. It's good to see a customer who is sensitive enough to recognize that this is going on there. They tried to make me work like 3 17 hour days over one holiday. I told them "no". One of the days was my regular day off and I was taking it. They looked at me like I just kidnapped the Lindbergh baby. (I know I'm giving away my age but being over 50 is not a birth defect) Your comments are right on!!!

Bob · 1 year ago

I brought my car to Herb Chambers to be repaired after an accident; and after 90 days now they still can't fix it. They cannot get the power sliding door to close. They have replaced everything in the door three times and still nothing. I have called corporate five times and have never received a call back. Even when I tried to trade in the car, they tried to take advantage of me. They quoted me a price and when I went to sign the finance forms they tried to pull a fast one on me. They said that since they gave me such a good price on the new car, that I was not eligible for the 2.9 financing. If I wanted the special financing I would have to add $1500 to the price f the car. So I ended up walking out of the dealership. Now I cannot get any manager to call me back. The only person who has been any help was the service rep. He seems to understand my frustration. I finally had to get the Attorney General involved to try and resolve this issue.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

at herb chambers "we don't steal from you"we're just helping you unload your wallet"

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I bought my new 500 mercedes at flagship motors only to find out it had been damaged during transportation to the dealership.I drove around the parking lot to find that a company called Chips Away was spray painting it outdoors in a tent in the rear parking lot of the dealership.The temperature outside was less than 20 degrees.I called Lynnfield town hall and they told me that Herb Chambers does does not have an auto body permit and that he circumvents the law buy subcontracting it out companies like Chip's Away..Chips Away website boastfully claims they have never lost a law suit ..come to find out they are run by a couple of lawyers...had i known in advance of consummating the purchase of this vehicle that it was damaged behind my back,repaired behind my back in a "third world" tent i would have taken my business elsewhere..do not be fooled by the "state of the art" dealership buildings because your car could be the next to be repaired in a tent ,without any disclosure to you..this was an $85,000 car!!

WTF · 1 year ago

Today I went to Herb Chambers Honda in Westboro. I had the worst car buying experiences of our lives. The salesman under priced our trade in by $2500 of the Kelly Blue Book value. Beyond that I was pressured into buying a car without knowing what the APR would be...crazy! The salesman based my tentative monthly payment off of a "range of APRs" that he later divulged was around 9% which did not take into account my good credit. When I decided to leave the dealership the salesman told me I was cheap and would continue to be cheap the rest of my life. Overall this was a despicable experience and even if they do decide to give me the deal I wanted I will not purchase through them.

Former HC Employee · 1 year ago

Let me just start by saying that this site is somewhat of a legend in the Herb Chambers community, when i was working for the company at Honda in westborough we were threatened with our jobs if we were discovered to have even gone on this website. I have to say that this is an impressive thing to see that so many people have had issues with the company and been treated so rudely. Rest assured though what goes on behind the closed doors in the sales office is much different than what those bright smiling faces on the showroom present. I have seen first hand how people are really treated in the auto world. This was the first job in a dealership for me and most definately the last. I was disgusted at how ignorant and rude the salesman and managers were. Watching the sales guys come in laughing and bragging about how they just tricked so and so into buying their new honda for $xxx over msrp, and how the guys would make crude comment after another when an attractive woman would come in. But what made me the most sick was the racism that went on there how every single person right up to the sales managers including Mike Kelley, Gregg Vitello would refer to the Indian or other Arabic Customers as "Butt-as's" (refering to a phrase they would often say) and mocking their accents making fun of them in the backrooms. This was rediculous I could not beleive that this was allowed and tolerated. I thought this was something that was only going on at my dealership but after going through training and seeing the other dealerships it was no different. The unprofessionalism within that company is horrible. I could go on and on about the shum in the backrooms of Herb Chambers dealerships, not to mention i even purchased a vehicle through the company and it was a complete nightmare! I even worked there iand it was a mess, they tried to rape me on pricing tack on these extar b.s. fees like I didnt know what was going on, I didnt even get a set of spare keys they told me I would have to pay for them. But anyway thats a whole different story I may post that one some other day, but bottom line is 90% of the people who work in sales at this company are not your friend, that smile is fake, and yes they are taking advantage of you and making fun of you in the back room, so whatever car you buying dont buy from Herb Chambers they are sleezy people, and p.s. do ALL of your home work before buying a car find out the invoice and the net pricing and fight it to the penny because there is plenty of room to play and they will milk you for every dime!

Car-buffed · 1 year ago

I just found this site----it's "GREAT"---nutty customers,nutty employees,it's
some of the funniest reading I've ever seen.

After saying that, I too woud like to share.

I recently went to Braintree Ford to purchase a Mustang GT.I had the pleasure
of meeting BOZO THE CLOWN,better know as Scott Lewis.

Mr. Lewis is the GM---I call him BOZO not only for his looks,which are very
close to the real BOZO,but for the way he destroyed the wonderful feeling I had
about purchasing my dream car.

I can't explain how aloof this man is-----he really thinks he's important--he's a car salesman for god sake.He gets paid alot of money and he ruined what could have been a sale.I could spend hours explaining what it was like--
like so many of you have--but it is easier to say,I WON'T BE GOING BACK THERE AGAIN------------EVER.

Thanks for listening,
Car-buffed

Steve · 1 year ago

I recently checked into purchasing a pre-owned vehicle from Herb Chambers Saturn of Warwick and I must say, I have seen some badly run businesses in my time, but this places takes it to a whole new low. First things first, my salesperson Bob pretty much tried to bully me into buying a vehicle which I was not the least bit interested in. I believe the term "grinding" could be used to describe his sales tactics, boring me to death with non-stop double talk and nonsense in the most monotone voice I have ever heard. After suffering through several hours of his torment, I was directed to speak with the general manager, who seemed more like he couldn't even hold a job at Burger King, much less manage a multi-million dollar dealership. I found myself wondering if he had wandered in from the local methadone clinic or perhaps escaped from a mental institute. As he stared at me blankly with his bloodshot eyes and stuttered incoherently I felt as if my attempt at purchasing a vehicle was too bothersome for him to worry about. I was utterly disgusted by my experience and instead purchased a vehicle from Flood Ford a few miles down the road and was very pleased with the treatment they give to their customers.

jim · 1 year ago

Herb Chambers Dodge-Danvers
After being jerked around by the nasty little service manager on a Saturday morning after 3 hours, I walked up the the General Manager who was holding his obnoxious sales rah rah with live customers in the store buying and them chanting like Tony Robert rejects. After being shood away twicw by his sargeant, I walked up, interupted him and demanded service. He got and roarewd at the top of his lungs in the dealership "OK FUCKING RUDE CUSTOMER, LETS GO WIPE YOUR HINEY.

If I knew there was no chance of getting arreested, I would have pounded this nasty little immature boy into the ground. I will NEVER EVER buy at Herb Chambers again.

SaabGuy · 4 years ago

I am the Saab buyer who took his business elsewhere. My Herb Chambers experience can be told in greater light at a later date, as I am still entwined in a battle over recouping my deposit. Come to think of it, I need to call MasterCard right now!

Jay · 4 years ago

That's just so freaking awesome! Hail, the power of "some guy on the internet"!!

Well, FYI to Herb Chambers Infiniti:

Anthony is not just "some guy"...

and It's all about karma, baby!!!!

your brother jay

Anonymous · 3 years ago

Herb Chambers is a great place to do business. I've never had a problem after purchasing 8 vehicles from 8 different dealerships in the chain.

customer · 3 years ago

Some Herb Chambers are better than others - I just wish Mr. Chambers [himself] were aware of the goings on... Cheers to you Internet Guy. Your word is a strong one and heard crystal clear. Im in process of a couple issues myself otherwise i'd elaborate. Until then - know your words were a relief, in that I know Im not the only one.

loren · 3 years ago

i had similar problems with them after i bought my car and was lied to several times. happy to see their BS is finally effecting their reputation.

Anonymous · 3 years ago

I did not purchase a car at Herb Chambers but I was recently lied to and harrassed (called at 10:00pm) by an internet sales person. She insisted that I could be in the car I wanted for the price I said I wanted. I made an "appointment" which she told me was necessary. When I showed up, not only was the person I set the appointment with not there, but there were no available sales people to assit me, (so much for the appointment). That didn't upset me but when they told me they couldn't even come close to the price she quoted me, I went nuts. They would do absolutely nothing to accommodate me.

Kathy Arnold · 3 years ago

I am very dissapointed in Herb Chambers Ford in Westboro Ma. My husband and I went in looking for a used truck. The salesman was very nice and helpful
we found a truck that we liked, signed papers on it on the next day, and a week later we are still waiting to pick the truck up. The service department keeps coming up with excuses, we have to order another part, we're still waiting for the part to come in.
I will never send anyone to a Herb Chambers Dealership, and subject them to the BS that we are going through.

Rui Gama · 3 years ago

I too have had issues with those people. And they lost a sure sale because of that. While negociating the purchase of a dodge minivan, an offensive sales manager came to me with a monthly payment. When I asked for the interest rate, he told me the bank didn't release that info. This even after I informed him that to be illegal (truth in lending), he kept repeating it. It was a young kid with an obvious used car attitude. I bet Herby would love to know his sales people are losing sales left and right because of their attitude, but their corporate web site does not list any phone number at all. This way I can help other people not to shop at Herb Chambers Chrysler and Dodge of Milbury.

Kara · 3 years ago

I just purchased my seventh car from the Herb Chambers group... Nothing but a pleasant experience.. that man is probablly one of the most successfull business people in the automotive industry (Nation wide) ... When you own a ton of dealerships like that you're bound to sometimes have some issues some where.. He can't be everywhere at once.. But i DO know that sending a letter directly to him does WONDERS!!! He truly does care...

Anonymous · 3 years ago

My friend works for Herb Chambers Boston and I will tell you that he would never perpetrate such acts upon someone. He is dedicated to his work, as are the rest of his co-workers there, you guys found a couple of bad apples in the midst of what really is a great workforce for herb chambers. I'm sorry for your bad experience, it sux when people f*ck you over, but there are somewhere like 42 herb chambers dealerships across the northeast with thousands of employees spread throughout, with those numbers, youre bound to run into a few jerks. You deserve to be mad for what happened but dont count out all of herb chambers people, because as a whole, they are a great company that does great work.

Joanne Start · 3 years ago

I recently bought a car at Herb Chambers of Auburn, the price was agreed upon by sales person, sales manager and myself as the highest that I would go. After leaving the finance dept I came home, was told I would get copies of the paper work, but hadn't as of that time, but was still believing that my car was costing me what I had agreed on. When I picked up the car and got the paper work home and read it, I was floored, immediately called the finance with no return call. Have called the company, and various other places that I felt would help with delemma. The last call was from the Customer Relations Manager, who was referring it to the District Manager who has yet to make the effort. More than likely the car will repossessed as I am only going to pay the price I agreed to. So add my name to your list of disappointed persons, and wish me luck.

Joanne Start · 3 years ago

I recently bought a car at Herb Chambers of Auburn, the price was agreed upon by sales person, sales manager and myself as the highest that I would go. After leaving the finance dept I came home, was told I would get copies of the paper work, but hadn't as of that time, but was still believing that my car was costing me what I had agreed on. When I picked up the car and got the paper work home and read it, I was floored, immediately called the finance with no return call. Have called the company, and various other places that I felt would help with delemma. The last call was from the Customer Relations Manager, who was referring it to the District Manager who has yet to make the effort. More than likely the car will repossessed as I am only going to pay the price I agreed to. So add my name to your list of disappointed persons, and wish me luck.

A HAPPY HERB EMPLOYEE · 3 years ago

AS AN EMPLOYEE FOR HERB CHAMBERS-LET ME SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT-WE AT DEALERSHIPS DO NOT RIP PEOPLE OFF-YOU(THE CUSTOMER)SHOULD READ THE PAPERWORK,ASK QUESTIONS BUT NOOOOOOOOO!!!! YOU ARE SO WRAPPED UP IN THE EXCITEMENT OF BUYING A NEW CAR YOU DON'T STOP TO READ THE FINE PRINT. PEOPLE WILL ALWAYS HAVE HORROR STORIES-IT COMES WITH THE BUSINESS....BUT TAKE A GOOD LOOK IN THE MIRROR. MOST OT THE PROBLEM IS YOUR OWN IGNORANCE....AS FOR YOUR SERVICE PROBLEM-YOU ARE AN IDIOT-SIMPLY PUT-YOU HAVE VERY LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF HOW CARS WORK,NEXT TIME TAKE YOUR CAR TO SOME GARAGE AND HAVE THEM REPLACE YOUR TRANNY FLUID WITH THE WRONG TYPE SO THAT AFTER YOU DESTROY YOUR TRANSMISSION YOU CAN COME BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WITH YOUR LITTLE TAIL BETWEEN YOUR LEGS BEGGING FOR GOODWILL ASSISTANCE! GROW UP LOOOOOSER-GET A LIFE,STOP BEING CHEAP,AND QUIT SPREADING LIES. I WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE EXCELLENT SERVICE TO NORMAL CUSTOMERS-WACKOS LIKE YOU SHOULD BE BANNED FROM BREEDING...OH AND BY THE WAY H.C INFINITI HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST SATISFACTION RATINGS IN THE U.S. YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE ISSUES SERVICING YOUR CAR AT ANY DEALERSHIP BECAUSE OF YOUR STUPIDITY. (WHAT I'M TRYING TO SAY IS THAT THE SERVICE ADVISOR WILL ALWAYS REALIZE YOU'RE A DICK AND WILL PROBABLY NEVER WANT TO HELP YOU WITH ANYTHING-THAT'S KARMA MY FRIEND.)

too bad · 2 weeks ago

how rude and insulting...you might be a happy herb employee, but with an attitude like that, you've done more to hurt your cause than help.

Wheeler · 2 years ago

My husband bought a used Jeep Celebrity at Herb Chambers in Auburn, MA. He too signed the papers, took them home, read them, and was floored at the rate. Called to no avail. But here is the kicker, he paid a handsome down payment, and a trade-in and its been a month and he still doesn't have his Used Jeep he purchased. The give him BS and runaround that the title isn't in, and he is now forced to pay on a car he doesn't have. Is that legal someone???? My daughter had a bad experience at Chambers in Westboro. They took her $50 deposit, she bought the car, financed herself, and still haven't given her her $50 deposit back - this was two months ago. So this happens frequently at all Herb Chambers dealerships...real bad place - would never recommend to anyone!!!!! We still don't know what to do about NO CAR we paid for in our case!!!!

MIKE · 2 years ago

I work for the Herb Chambers Co's as well, I;ve been in the business for 12 years and with Herb for the past 8. Most employees are in this business because we like people and like to HELP people. We, the employees work very hard and incure lots and lots of stress helping people on an every day basis 9 times out of 10 the client is either very difficult or unreasonable and it is our job to change this client and earn their trust and business. The problems and the nasty clients come our way if we like it or not, the employees have to make the best of the situations and make the best decision for the client and the specific department and store we work for. The majority of employess in this business are paid based on customer satisfaction levels and if we dont hit certain criteria we dont get paid our highest potential. Believe me when I tell you the employees do whatever it takes to a certain level of abuse from clients to make them happy and hope for a good survey score, the employees and the employees family depends on it. Out of the tens of thousands and at this point in Herbs hugely successful run at this point hundreds of thousands, a very very small percentage of customers are dissatisfied and it is usually due to the clients unreasonable requests or self inflicted issues that put the staff at the dealership in a bad position. The Herb Chambers Co's are a strong and fair company to work for the automotive industry in general has a very high turnover rate due to the amount of stress an individual goes through when helping people and the demands of the clients due to the amount of money they spend on vehicles. the Herb Chambers Co's have a very low turnover rate compared to industry standards, the reason for this is because we are compensated very well for our efforts, Herb makes it worth our while to do a good job and make every effort to satisfy the customer. Herb did not build his empire with the attitude to screw the client and this reflects right down the the personel sweeping the lots. Sometimes an individual needs to look inward. M.R

Randall · 2 years ago

Does anyone else find it a bit funny that these "Herb Chambers" employees: a. write like eight year olds and b. seem to have a "blame the customer" approach? Give me a break.

Rui Gama Sucks · 2 years ago

Rui you foreign scumbag, maybe if you gave the sales manager a chance to explain himself instead of arguing like an idiot, you would have received the answer you required. They could not give you an interest rate because they didn't send any information to a bank! Maybe in Portugal or whatever third world country you come from they just pull rates out of their ass, but here we have to actually send info to a bank first. Oh and you wife is ugly.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

If you, the unsatisfied customers of Herb Chambers, ever saw yourselves on TV taped by hidden camera, you would ALL be absolutely horrified and deny to your friends family that who they saw was in fact you. If we, the American public saw you we would laugh endlessly ridicule you on the street if we saw you. Alas, we don’t have the honor of watching you all act like fools. You should all be ashamed you act the way you do in public in front of people who do nothing by try to help you select your next vehicle. For those who come in acting civil, I can assure you sales people feel what you are going through and bend over backwards to help at Herb Chambers. I have recently purchased my 11th vehicle from Herb Chambers and every time I have the short, distinct pleasure of watching at least one of you bitch or moan about forces out of Herb Chamber’s dealerships control. Listen, if you don’t like your 11% interest rate, PAY YOUR BILLS ONTIME! If you cant afford a $400, $600, $900 payment per month, BUY A CHEAPER VEHICLE OR SAVE MORE. But, I Digress- It is awful fun for everyone else who doesn’t work there who has the distinct privilege of watching you act like a baby. Didn’t your mother teach you manners? Grow up. Or don’t.

LD · 2 years ago

I am an employee of Herb Chambers. I actually work at the store where the Infiniti service problem occured with Anthony. I had worked in the Infiniti and Honda service department for over a year and I now work in the Honda sales department. No big name dealership in this country, including Herb Chambers, benefit from lying to customers about sales or service. The service advisors nor the technicians make more money by making up false problems with your vehicle. All of our employees get compensated very generously. This store is one of the highest in the country for customer service satisfaction. And when you are dealing with something as detailed as selling or servicing a vehicle, you have to understand that there are several things that can go wrong. 95% of the time things go great, the 5% that doens't always go smooth, we do our best to make it right. So I hope everyone who has had a bad experience, or has heard from someone who has, would give Herb Chambers another chance. And keep in mind we sell over 40,000 cars a year and service even more than that. Out of those thousands, most walk away very happy...

LD -HC BOSTON

bill boss · 2 years ago

Herb chambers dealership in Milbury, Mass., has a dishonest salesman named Jared Finch, as he identified himself to me over the phone when he set up an appointment with me on Feb. 18th 2007 at 1pm. I had dutifully filled out their online form under the vehicle that I wanted to try out for their big George Washington sale. Spelled out exactly what I had to trade and at the bottom of their form there is a bid box. Jared (if thats his real name) called me and I informed him that I lived over 55 miles away and did not want to waste the long trip if my bid and trade in, were not sufficient to buy the car if all vehicles were as stated. Not only was the car not there, but the sales manager said "At least lets put the numbers together so that we are all on the same page." Instead of the $ 3500. difference that Mr Finch said was "No problem" They wanted over $7,500. The long 55 mile trip home left me with the attitude that whatever dealership Mr Chambers owns, I will have nothing to do with them as these people who work for him are an unscruplious bunch to say the least. I wonder if he condones their lack of character and ethics. My wife (66) and I (74) are both Very Senior citizens an feel we have been taken advantage of.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

LD, how long have you been working for that Herb Chambers? Would you be interested in learning things that it sounds like you're completely unaware of that go on at your place of employment?

LD · 2 years ago

I've been here almost 2 years. What is it that I am unaware of?....Whatever it is, it goes on in every dealership in the country. We don't try to set ourselves apart by practicing bad business.

ki · 2 years ago

I am not planning to purchase a vehicle right at this time, yet I have to admit that reading this comments is quite disturbing, and yes the Herb Employees sound very rude and unpolite, that is a shame, remember,the customer is always right, that is the way you build a seccessfull business. Good Luck to the Herb employees and the future buyers.

anonymous · 2 years ago

Has any one ever sued Herb Chambers over the lemon law? did you win?

LaFlash · 2 years ago

I've been with the company for over 6 years now.
We are not here to fight and argue with the clients that come in our doors! How does that benefit us? True sometimes things don't go as smoothly as we all want them to go. However we do whatever we can to make the client happy,our very livehoods depend on repeat business. I believe we go above and beyond the call of duty to make EVERYONE happy. It sometimes astonishes me exactly how far we will go to make the customer happy. I wish every business went as far to make their clients happy. I can think of many times I have been dissatisfied with the services I recieved from companies I have done business with. For instance I recently got married and I was very dissatisfied with the company who did our photography. First when I called to pay over the phone the woman there was more interested in discussing with her coworkers the events that had happened the previous night while I sat on the phone waiting for her to finish then she calls me days later to inquire as to when I was going to pay for it. Hello I already did she misplaced the receipt in the midst of her conversation with her co-workers. Then the photographer did not care about how we wanted our photos done there were some things in the background that we wanted removed before he took the pics he ignored us then Eight months later when we finally got our pics we had to pay to have the items removed from the pics. We got the pics and thanks it looks like someone cut them out and stuck them to a yellow background what did I get for my inconvenience,NOTHING I had to pay for the pics that were "fixed" and I had to wait eight months for them! That is not the case with the Herb Chambers Companies Satisfaction is Herb's number one concern,in my opinion and our company will do whatever we can to make the client happy no matter what the cost. Many of our Dealers have the highest satisfaction scores in the Country. A new vehicle purchase to most people is the second biggest purchase they'll make right next to purchasing a home. Ever go into a realtors office and expect for them to give you all the info you need to make a conscience decision in five minutes? Honestly give us a little time were giving you ours. As far as interest rates are concerned we use over thirty different lending institutions we don't know what your rates going to be until we've come to an agreement and have shopped the banks,but I can tell you this you'll know what it is before you sign your bank contract and if for some reason you can get a better rate,go ahead but we can normally beat or match any credit unions rate. Have a little patience were not here to rip you off were here to help you find the right vehicle at the right price! I was brought up to believe that you should treat every person you meet with the same courtesy as you would like to be treated with. I wish everyone had this same philosiphy! Simply put we want everyone to be satisfied but if you act like an animal chances are you'll be treated like one. We try to look past that and try to think that your not really an animal that its just sometype of defensive reaction or is it? I know for a fact that if you act like a rational person your concern will be addressed no matter what the cost. As for waiting for a vehicle do to a Title issue. It's not us its the state that requires that the dealer have the title before delivery of a vehicle. Most people still have loans on there vehicles when they trade them in for a new one and occasionally someone is interested in something that just came in on trade. We sell it then when we go to get the car registered theres no title we want you to take delivery of your new vehicle as badly as you do,however in this case it's in the hands of the bank who has the title as to how long it takes to get to us. True we should know if the title is in or not but guess what we're human and sometimes we make mistakes or overlook little things. I do know however that if this instance comes up we will gladly pay for a rental vehicle so your not without a vehicle as I said we want you happy.
I can only say that whoever had this issue must have been an animal and refused our offer to provide them with another vehicle for transportation in the meantime. As for service
Sometimes parts need to be ordered and sometimes when they come in it's not the right part, what does service have to gain by lying to the client as to the wait for parts or work that needs to be performed on there vehicle. We are the Herb Chambers Companies we service hundreds of thousands of vehicles each year,we don't need to nickel and dime you. One of the first things I was told when I started was to NEVER LIE to the client if they ask you a question and you don't know the answer simply tell them you don't know,lying comes back to bite you in the rear so don't do it.
Do unto others as you would do unto yourself!
True sometimes you get a bad apple in the bunch but thats not a good excuse just know that these bad apples are quickly disposed of and they probably now work at the dealer down the street or at Midas or Jiffy Lube because they don't make the cut!

brian cobb · 2 years ago

excellant service in sales-3/29/2007

Anon · 2 years ago

Wow, the Herb Chambers employee posts are doing Herb Chambers more damage than the ticked-off customers.. Hilarious.

Frankie · 2 years ago

I am buying a CRV from the Boston Herb Chambers, they promise to deliver the vehicle in 2 weeks, now they told me the car is still on a ship?

Mark · 2 years ago

Without a doubt, Herb Chambers Infiniti is the most despicable, dishonest, unprofessional, bunch of meathead high school dropouts that I have ever encountered. DO NOT USE THEM FOR SERVICE. YOU WILL REGRET IT.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

I'm surprised that nobody has had anything to say regarding Herb Chambers Hyundai and Herb Chambers Mitsubishi Car Dealership in Hartford, Connecticut being cited and forced to pay $35,000.00 in fines for advertising policies. Fact of record, check Hartford Courant news article dated Jul 14, 1993. There were also other issues regarding their business practices. The dealership was ultimately sold as a direct result of a tremendous amount of bad press which caused sales to decline to a financially devastating low.
It would appear that they are still employing the same tactics regarding financing the sales of vehicles. Maybe the laws in Massachusetts regarding this behavior are more tolerant than in the State of Connecticut. Also seems that a number of people are complaining about the same issues (loan misrepresentations). Judging by the content of the copy written by employees of the Chambers dealerships, one would have to question the level of their intellect, but then they are not working at a car dealership because they have PhD’s in Rocket Science.
The negative connotation attached to the title “Car Salesmen” has evolved for a reason, it surely wasn’t for good ethical practices.

Fly on the wall · 2 years ago

I have been the auto business for almost 30 years and in that time, I have never heard anything postive about the Herb Chambers Company. Now he is buying the auto group I work for and no one is really looking foward to working for him. Our company tried to please (and hopefully did) everyone who walked thru the door. Everyone knew what the interest rate was, everyone got a title with their used car, you don't own the car unless you have the title and salesmen should know better. We got alot of repeat business and referrals because we went out of our way. Now Herb Chambers is buying us, will my company remain the same ?. Hey Herb, how's your new Bently, want some more money off ?.

Beth · 2 years ago

I recently purchased a used car from Herb Chambers Ford in Westboro. And I can say with all certainty that I will never go to another HC dealership again. In addition, I am telling everyone I know to save them the issues I had. These people totally wasted my time on several occasions. And they were also a bunch of liers. I have bought cars from other dealerships before and never had such dishonest sales people. I wanted to walk away from the sale at several different points. But I had given them a deposit, I knew that I would never get it back.
Before I went to the Ford dealership, I had been to the Jeep one in Millbury. They were just as bad. But luckily I had figured it out before I put down a deposit.
I guess the Westboro dealership is just better at BSing people that the Millbury one.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Herb Chambers is an arrogant prick ... I had first hand knowledge of just what a bad person he is. He has 1400 employees in his company and over half quit EVERY YEAR!! He has no minorities or women (except for his neice, and believe me, she doesn't qualify as a woman) in management. The Boston Globe won't touch him because he spends so much in advertising. Those who have had problems should flood his office with calls ... 617-666-8300 or 617-763-1000.

Ashley · 2 years ago

Herb Chambers Saturn of Warwick is a bunch of a**holes who think they can get away with pulling a fast one on me. I asked for the car fax numerous time and they decided to FINALLY give it to me right before I signed the papers which stated that it had been in an accident... then they tried to screw with me when I brought in a $300 coupon and the price magically went UP instead of going down- I caught them on this and ended up arguing with them for two hours and all I heard from them was about how they need to keep the lights on and they need to pay their employees. They are an AWFUL company and the only reason I ended up buying the car was because I needed one due to mine being broken beyond repair. I am HOPING that I get a customer satisfaction survey so I can lay into them about how they are in NO WAY for their customers and how they really suck at what they do. I know a few different people that went through the same bull**** that I went through.

Eric · 2 years ago

I traded in my 2005 Hyundai Sonata XL this month when I purchased a 2008 Hyundai at Herb Chambers in Auburn MA. We brought the Kelly Blue Book value of 10,000 for my Sonata which had 38000 miles and was in excellent condition and had all of the mainentance including the 33,000. The salesman said he would offer 9,500 for my Sonata XL and we said 10,000 because it also had two new Michelan tires. The salesman went to talk to his manager and came back saying everything was all set. The account manager handed me the sales agreement and discussed all of the extras and I glanced over the document unsuspecting dishonesty and I signed it while listening to the account manager. Later on I discovered that I was given 8.500 for my Sonata, what a rip off. I will take my car to Herb Chamber's in Framingham for warranty work and will not go not back to Auburn.

Mike M · 2 years ago

I must say, this is very interesting. I have never worked at HC stores nor have I ever purchased A vehicle from any of his stores. Mostly for the reason's all of you people are talking about. A dealer in Mass. can not legally sell you a car without posession of a title. Also, guess why the finance guy talks to you while you are trying to sign? You think he wants you to see the interst rate and all the add ons. How about the $595 Doc fee!! thats a profit center. I walked out of the store without signing after I read the contracts. Everything I heard was TRUE!! I am sure for the most part HC has good people working at his stores. The more customers, the more complaints I guess.

Me · 2 years ago

This is great. HC is not going to be where I buy my G37 thanks to this site. People like them are the reason why I hate buying cars. They'll realize the power of "a guy on the internet" soon enough...

anon · 2 years ago

yeah!

John G · 2 years ago

Having bought a Ford truck at Herb Chambers two years ago from their, Westborough,MA location the sales manager at that time insisted I buy an estended warrenty on the truck. His comments were I would be foolish not to buy it. I was told that if no service issues should arrise over the time I was paying for the vehicle that I would get the full amount I paid back. Last week I received a notice from the insurance company that Herb Chambers company used stating there would be a class action suit due to this company filing for bankruptcy. Now what???? Mr Chambers

Mike M · 2 years ago

Cancel NOW!!!!

anonymous · 2 years ago

I just brought a new car from a different dealer, but I did visit Herb Chamber's Honda in Westboro MA while I was looking. They played games and told lies to me. All in all they were definitely one of the worst dealers that I ever encountered.

Former employee · 2 years ago

I am a former employee of the Herb Chambers Co., I will keep the name of the particular store anonymous. I was with the co for 7 years. I left the company over a year ago, and I am happily employed at another dealer, which I am happy spending over $50 more in gas p/week to get to...that must say a lot.
My story begins here: I was a happy service advisor, who like a lot of people who still work for the company would never let anyone bad mouth the HC company, I felt strongly about the level of service I provided and had a strong customer following. Over the years, I found ways to make customers want to keep returning to the company for continuing maintenance, warranty needs, and even to buy new vehicles.
Somewhere along the way, I moved my way up the ladder and became service manager, working under the so-called service director. 3 yrs went by and the service department never saw better numbers and customer satisfaction was at an all time high. I then was called into the General Manager's office with the "service director", where they proceeded to give me an option, become a service advisor or leave (demotion, or as the GM called it a "lateral move"). They needed to "make a change" with the position and bring in someone else, plus they "needed me to do what I do best and work with the customers"...so wait--take something that isn't broken and try to fix it with me changing positions, I remind you the service department, under me, was doing numbers it had never seen before and was climbing every month. Makes no sense does it, here is where it gets interesting, I was told that they didn't know who they were going to hire but they had interviewed some candidates. A week later there was a new manager in place, who I was asked to train--haha. It turns out he was a former manager who had worked with someone very close to the "service director" before. Funny huh...it's a shame that they lost out on a dedicated employee. By the way, they did nothing to try to keep me there when I did leave a few months later...I don't know if Mr. Chambers knows this story or not, I never pursued it...maybe he may see this and wonder who I am...probably not though.
--A former dedicated employee

Kim Akins · 2 years ago

I want to thank you for this site. I have a 2005 Saab 97X and all that it has been is an "X" . My car has been acting up since the first day that I bought it. If I took it back every time it acted up it would say in the shop. Its not about the money but the fact that even when they see the lights going crazy inside the car, the next day everyone is mute and cant remember the lights. After weeks on end, they return with a "We can't find anything wrong with the car, you can come pick it up. Which is what I am about to do now. Thank you for acting and thanks again for this site

Robert Larson · 2 years ago

I had my Mercedes-Benz which I bought from Herb Chambers Mercedes fixed when someone bumped into the rear end while it was parked. It was a hit and run. So, I took it to Herb Chambers Collision. It took them a month to get a new bumper, and when they received the bumper they put it on and the upper bumper had spider cracks all over it. Furthermore, the Mercedes emblem was removed for some reason from the trunk. And when they gave it to me they put on the hood ornament from one of the ML series, which looked ridiculous, as if it did not belong there. When we called her Chambers Cooperate offices they did not care nor did the management at the lower levels. After much debate, they agreed to fix the spider cracks and put the correct Mercedes emblem on. After this event I have decided never to use another Herb Chambers Store, or any of their services. For my Mercedes-Benz service now I bring it to Viti www.viti.com who gives me excellent service and excellent customer satisfaction. Actually they come to my front door and pick the car up. I learned a lesson, never shop at Herb Chambers.

Honda Accord Buyer · 2 years ago

I bought Accord 2007 at Honda Herb Chambers Boston on DEC 2006. After I bought a car, I've been there for services. It was so bad. SUCK SERVICE!! If you pay them money, they'll speak nice to you. But if you're not, they'll shout to you.

I HATE HERB CHAMBERS

pax · 2 years ago

HERB CHAMBERS..WORST DEALERS!!

I NEVER GO BACK TO VISIT THEM AGAIN.

title free · 2 years ago

here,s my wonderful experience. In May they were running a sales event to buy back suv's. With the rising gas prices I thought I would check it out. On May 20th I went in to the dealership in auburn and found an older camry that I wanted. The salesperson came out, showed me the car and we took it for a test drive. I agreed to trade in my vehichle and buy the camry. We went thruogh the paperwork and he informs me the title is on its way and will be there in a couple of weeks. They gave me a rental to drive. I had to immediately clean my old vehichle out and take the rental. Two weeks passed
and I heard nothing so I called to see if they received the title. The response was that it will be in in a couple of weeks and that we will call you when it is ready . I waited for another month and called back again, this time to speak to the sales mgr. He again told me that the title is not in and it will be in in a couple of weeks and that they will call me. By now my payments had started and to keep my plates I had to start to pay insurance onmy suv that they had already sold. I again called back in july with the same answer. I called a day ago( in August ) and the title still wasn't in. I told them they had till the end of the week to produce the title and the response was that they loaned me a rental car and if I break the contract I will have to pay for the rental(3 months worth). I told them if you do I'd see you in court and am now waiting.
Great business being run here. Customer service is definately their #1 priority.

Robert Larson · 2 years ago

See how Herb Chambers fixed my car incorrectly at

http://www.rmlarson.com/chambers

Mike M · 2 years ago

It's Illegal in this state to sell a car without a title. They bought you by giving you a rental. I say call the attorney generals office, drop off the rental and either get your suv back ( which by law) they cannot get rid of until your deal is complete, or tell them you want a check for the value of your trade Immediately!!!

anonymous · 2 years ago

I am looking to buy a new crv and my husband works near a hc dealer. After reading the nasty responses from hc employees I will never step foot in one of their dealerships.

ANONYMOUS · 2 years ago

I'm amazed that the comments here posted by employees are filled with nasty comments about the customers. Thanks .....you just confirmed everything the customers are saying jerks!

By the way.....DUH......the customers are the ones who provide your jobs.......loose them and you're out the door.

If you attempt to still visit Herb Chambers.........steer clear of Jamie at the Burlington dealership........nothing but a liar folks! He tried to get away with one lie after another and once pushed in the corner........he looses people files!!

I WOULD RIDE A LAWN MOWER TO WORK BEFORE I'D DO BUSINESS WITH ANY HERB CHAMBERS DEALERSHIPS!

mercedes buyer · 2 years ago

Wow...I have found a family of fellow sufferers. I bought from Foreign Motors in Natick, which has been recently acquired by Herb Chambers. At first, was going to lease the car and had worked out everything with the finance manager. Later, AFTER I drove off with the vehicle, I was contacted by the finance manager and told that I could not lease the car (because I use a Hong Kong drivers license) and that we would have to unwind the transaction. @!@#. After some fancy talking by the finance manager and (admitedly) a good deal, I agreed to buy the Merc (and in the process save the ass of the finance manager). Then the service guys kicked in, taking two weeks to install the promised extras when they were promised in two days. Still, they delivered the car to my home in Mass...and I thought the ordeal was over and I left with some positive and some negative views on this dealership.

Now...three months later...I get called my MB Finance saying we are delinquent on the payments, despite having set up the auto pay with the finance manager (twice actually...once for the lease and once for the loan). Am now in the process of clearing my credit report. Extremely frustrating!

Bottom line....well intentioned people with nice demeanor...but just not effective or thorough or diligent. And to those semi-illiterate "employees" who would seek to blame the customer or suggest I should read the fine print..........I did. I am a banker.

So the question is...is such ineffectiveness endemic to Herb Chambers dealerships or just rotten luck?

Civic_Lover HC_NOT · 2 years ago

Great forum--thanks for providing this means of getting the word out! (Only wish I'd checked it out last year...)

Back in 96, I purchased a pre-owned (they called them "used" back then) Civic from HC Burlington. Overall great experience! Very low-pressure, low-key, pleasant salesperson--car was ready for delivery as promised, very clean.

Thinking I could repeat that pleasant experience, I went back to HC Burlington to purchase another "certified pre-owned" Civic. Deceiptful, lying scam artists--I will NEVER do business with them again! I know I shouldn't compete or complain next to Benz buyers dishing out $$, but taken is taken.

Started when I called them: "Do you have any 5-speed manual Civics in inventory?" "Oh, yes," they replied, "we have several! C'mon down!" I did--they had ONLY one. Charged me $400 for the "pre-owned certification" (that 150-point inspection BS), then neglected to give me ANY documentation! What should've been provided but wasn't?

• Owners manual
• New Car Warranty manual
• Certified Warranty Booklet
• Copy of HCUC 150-pt. Inspection Checklist in Glove Box (Once completed)
• Radio Security Code

They also promised, but failed, to fix rear bumper damage, and delivered the car 3 days later than they had promised, with only 1 key (nonspecific to checklist, but not exactly "like new" either). As for the missing documents, after 3 phone calls to the sales associate, the finance supervisor took my call and actually used the "they're in the mail" line. Suffice it to say--never got 'em. And will never give Herb Chambers another cent of my business!

Thanks again for providing this site.

Jason · 2 years ago

My wife and I were recently deciding on purchasing a used car from Herb Chambers of Seekonk, when we realized how much they did not care about us or our welfare. The vehicle we were about to purchase was in great shape. The tires however were a different story. Not only were the tires completely bald, but they would not pass an inspection in any state. It would have cost my wife and I about $600 to replace both tires; as they were high performance tires. We asked the sales agent to cough up the cash to put two new tires on, or lower the asking price $600.

Both ideas were thrown into the trash without a second thought. The sales agent eventually became fed up with my ranting and called the sales manager; “so he could deal with it”. Long story short; the sales manager told my wife and I that if we didn't like the deal they offered; we simply didn’t have to buy the car.

Both the sales agent and the sales manager became flustered in a matter of 10 minutes because we refused to play their games. Pretty pathetic when they claim to be the best dealership.

Needless to say, we will never go to a Herb Chambers dealership again!

anonymous · 2 years ago

Watch Herb destroy another once great car dealership (Foreign Motors West)!!!!

Hope you sleep well Fred.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

For a laugh, check out www.goaskherb.com
Can you say massive ego?

screwedHCcustomer · 2 years ago

I found this page accidentally while I was searching for Herb Chambers Corporate site to email my complaint to. I was a proud owner of a 2003 Saturn Vue purchased new at HC Saturn of Warwick until the incompetent service team got their hands on my vehicle. It seems that each time they touch my vehicle more and more things go wrong and their excuse is "not our fault". There were even a couple of issues that the service team insisted I was responsible paying for even though I had purchased (not cheap) an extended warranty. Only after refusing to pay and throwing a fit did they look into it and called me a couple of days later to advise me that it indeed was covered by my warranty. I am so disappointed because although I love my Saturn, I couldn't possibly purchase another because there is no one to service it should it need repair, no one qualified anyway. I actually just arrived home from another visit where I was having an oil change and mentioned that a few months ago I had them replace my rear windshield wiper and they may have installed it too tight because ever since then it goes over the window very sluggishly. A member of the service team advised me that it is not too tight, that I need a new motor and it is covered under my extended warranty, but (and there is always a but with them) I have a $100 deductible for each repair. Not an annual deductible, but every time the warranty is used, $100. They get ya coming and going!!!!!

Mike W. · 2 years ago

I am in the car business and have been contacted by Chambers to join their company. I'm horrified by what the employees have written about their customers. I have been recruited to become a manager and I can tell you that if I accept the position, my first order of business will be to instill the value of the "customer." Thanks to the Internet, car buyers have more options at their finger tips than ever before. Customers are the life-blood of our business. Always remember, "Treat your customers well or somebody else will."

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Mike, dont do it!! Ask them about turnover, it's almost 80%! Why subject yourself to that!

ANONYMOUS · 2 years ago

I work at a Herb Chambers dealership, in central ma. I would never ever buy a car from them. I see what they do to customers, it is so f***ed up.The Service department is the worst of all.

JM · 2 years ago

I too have had an awful experience with herb chambers saturn of warwick. I bought an 05 ION 2 there almost three months ago. First of all the salesman larry who is probably one of the biggest shitbags working there never returned my calls after the sale regarding me getting my registration. I drove around in a car with no reg for almost two weeks and had no clue when I would be getting it. He also was supposed to set up an appointment to fix a scratch on the bumper which was there prior to sale and we had agreed upon being fixed. Wouldn't return my calls until I called and threatened to go down there and cause a big scene if I didn't hear from him. Called him back after this and never heard back. Now here's the great part..i took the car to be inspected and it FAILED. Bring the car back and talk to the sales manager. He brings me over to service to speak with Pat I believe his name is and he blatantly lies right to my face about what's going on with the car. I could even hear him get pissed that he gad to come and talk to me when the sales manager went into his office. I then decided I had enough of this BS and lies and took my problem to saturn of seekonk which is also a herb chambers company. They stepped up took care of the problem and put a legit sticker on my car for me. As the service guy at saturn of seekonk said "it seems like they gave you the inconvenience package with this deal". And he couldn't have put it any better. Long story short I just got the bumper fixed after being blown off for nearly 3 months by them. Ohh and it only took me having to threaten legal action against the dealership seeing as we had a signed agreement about the work.(once i reminded them of that they changed their tune real quick) I kept track of all the voicemails I had to leave over a three month period to get this done and it totalled over 20!! That's ridiculous..

fv · 2 years ago

i just stopped in herb chambers ford in westboro. we quicly looked around and left after being grilled by a rediculous salesman. i dont see how anybody would do business there

jim c · 2 years ago

you freaking morons! youre all abunch of lowlife losers wit6h credit scores of 400 im sure... people who actually have good credit have no problems its always the deadbeat that has a problem... whren and if you all grow up and gain some credit you will see how different the world of auto sales can and will be for you

Mike M · 2 years ago

Well, Jim C. It's obvious you are a Chambers Employee. Selling cars because you have no Talent to do anything else. And probably get lucky enough to lie your way through 1 or 2 sales a month. Also, its a known fact that car salesman have the worst credit scores!! I have been in the car business for 18 years and I am currently a GSM. I have never worked for Chambers and never will. After Being told stories about a vehicle I was gonna purchase from one of the stores simply told me alot about the way the dealerships are run. And by the way, my credit score is 820. Is that like 3x's what yours is? only someone with a SHIT for credit score would make a STUPID comment like that!!!!

Mike M · 2 years ago

Oh, and by the way. You need to go back to school and learn how to spell/type. Your sentence's make no sense!! Another clue as to the people that are employed at H.C stores!!

no one · 2 years ago

i like it here

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Is it ironic that "no one" "likes it here" ... The subtle irony may have been lost on that Chambers employee!

anonymous · 2 years ago

Those familiar with this website will be happy to know that the hubris at HC Lexus is on the scale of their new dealership in Sharon - big enough to have prevented a sale - and my ever having to deal with the issues mentioned herein. Thank you to all for sharing your experiences - I can see now that after having been lied to, ignored, and treated with condescension at HC Lexus; I'm actually better off than most HC customers.

anonymous · 2 years ago

You think buying from Herb Chambers sucks? Try having to work for them because his monopoly expanded and took over the dealership you work for. Cuts pay. Old time employees walking out left and right to be replaced by puppets that just do as they're told at the expense of the customers and employees. The way they nickel and dime everyone is horrible while herb has multi million dollars worth of vehicles in his personal private garage.

"Service Advisor" is a joke. They get paid a commision on what they sell and only a commision. So they make no money unless you buy repairs.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

True enough. Heard he just sold his yacht and made a forty million dollar profit. At the same time, he lays off 10% of his employees, including long term people!

anonymous · 2 years ago

I bought my 2003 CR-V from Herb Chambers Burlington, having negotiated the transaction via the internet. The past two weeks now, I was in the market for a new 08 Civic EX-L sedan. After negotiating on-line with several dealers, I found myself right back at Herb Chambers Burlington last Monday afternoon. The negotiated price wasn't so much the issue. I got them to essentially match my best deal from another dealer. I pressed the issue with them that I wanted to be a repeat customer of theirs. Anyway, the Civic we wanted was basically nowhere to be found in New England. We wanted the 08 EX-L (leather seating and heated seats and mirrors) 4-door automatic, and we wanted the Tango red, Royal blue or Galaxy grey, in that order of preference. In all honesty, ALL of the dealers told us that the red and blue were going to be long waits for delivery of the car. We didn't want the EX-L with navigation system. That was readily available, but the nav system pushed the price up $1700. We didn't want to negotiate on that because we still would have ended up paying at least a 1000 for an option that I simply had no use for. The red and blue Civics, we were told, were nowhere to be found on any New England Honda dealership, according to their dealer exclusive Honda stock website. It would be upwards of 2 months before they could get the exact car we wanted in red or blue. However, there WERE a couple of them in New England in the Galaxy grey color. In fact, the reason we went with Herb Chambers Burlington was because they told us they had the grey on one of their 3 other Herb Chambers MA dealerships. It would take them a couple days or so to get the car delivered to the Burlington dealer for us. It was mid afternoon on a Monday, we had other things to tend to that day, and we had no desire or ability timewise to drive 30-60-90 minutes down the highway to the other dealership, as the afternoon commute was beginning. We had to pick up our daughter from a neighbor's house (she had to miss her piano lesson), my wife had to go to work soon for the evening. So, we fully expected to have the car handed over to us by Wednesday or Thursday, DEFINITELY BY FRIDAY!! So we signed the papers. Now the financial part of the transaction. We were paying $6500 with our own cash and our credit union was loaning us the rest. I was very naive about what my rights as a consumer were when it came to putting money down and signing the papers and so forth. Not sure why, as I purchased 3 new cars previously over the years, but whatever. I told the guy we were paying $6500 ourselves and the CU loan would cover the balance. Somehow, I allowed this Josh McCarthy jerk of a finance manager (business mgr) to railroad me into mandating that the entire car had to be paid for (my check and the CU loan check) that day! Here's how it went down. As stated earlier, it was getting late in the day, after 3pm, and we had to get heading home ASAP to deal with our other issues. I stated this to Josh McCarthy, the finance manager. He said we could wrap it all up within 25 minutes, so I allowed it all to continue. I denied all of his attempts to sell me various levels of extended warranties. Told him I was getting X rate from my CU, and we finally got around to signing the documents. Again, I stated the we we running short on time. Naively, I straight-up asked him if it was "mandatory" that we finish this pay-off today, if we had to secure the loan chack from the CU and turn it over to the dealer today. And he said yes. I was stupid. I didn't give it a second thought. I'm writing out a check here and now for $6500, the car won't be delivered to me for 2-3-4 days, and I let this Josh McCarthy jerk of a finance manager dictate that I had to go out and get my loan chack and turn it over to him before the end of the day. I headed over to my CU, which, fortunately for us, was only 5 minutes away from the dealer. And with some enlightenment from the CU loan reps and branch mgr, I realized how this Josh McCarthy jerk of a finance manager swindled me for all of the cash paid in full that day, as it was 9/24, the last week of the month, and of ocurse, the dealer wants to collect as much cash as possible heading down the closing week of the month. Still at the CU, the dealer didn't even provide us with the requisite paperwork for the CU to release the loan check to me. CU couldn't locate the VIN # on their system. They finally worked it out, and I went back and handed over the loan check for the balance of the purchase price of the car. "We'll call you in a couple days when the car is delivered to Burlington." Two messages from the salesman on Thursday. First the car is in and we should have it registered and ready for pick-up on Friday. Then another message. Somehow, the car arrived without a title, or the car was delivered in a batch of new vehicles to their other dealership ahead of the titles. Probably won't be registered and ready until Monday 10/1, Tuesday at the latest. Today is Monday. My wife just called the dealer and spoke with a female general manager, asking for a status on the delivery of the car, mentioning that it's taking a week to get the car delivered from their other dealership that is also in eastern Massachusetts. The general manager was apparently (and not surprisingly) rather rude and offered to refund our money now if we wanted. While you wouldn't think a dealer would EVER offer to refund $$ to back out of a sale, I'm guessing that they really wouldn't have minded getting the 08 back in their "for sale" inventory in an effort to stick it to the next customer for more $$ and profit. Anyway, my wife just said we want the delivery of the car ASAP. I told my wife when she called me that we are essentially stuck be tween a rock and a hard place. We're already under great stress trying to function with just one car for the past two weeks. I don't want to have to start the negotiation process all over again with Honda dealers and have it take that much longer to get the car delivered to us in the specs that we want. So, we are anticipating delivery of the car tomorrow. Finally, let me share with you the 100% bullshit that this Josh McCarthy jerk of a finance manager gave to our CU loan officer when she went to bat for us asking him why the loan chack balance had to be handed over to the dealership that day. He told her that full payment of the car was the agreed upon deal that we made with him since the car was sold to us at $80 under invoice. WHAT A CROCK!!! There was NEVER any such talk or agreement like that when we were signing the purchase and sale! I am just waiting to drive the car home and ensure that I have no problems with it, and then I will write nasty letters to the general manager, Mr. Herb Chambers himself, and to the MA BBB and maybe the MA office of cunsumer affairs and/or the Attorney General's office, as well. This car buying experience has reduced my ignorance level a bit more. Boy, they aren't kidding when they say you never stop learning in life. Put me down for a NO, as I will never deal with Herb Chambers again.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

herb is a great guy and his dog lucky has a nice ass.you are just jealous of lucky because you are on food stamps and lucky eats caviar for breakfast and shits in an oynx toilet..

live and learn · 2 years ago

Several members of the sales department of Herb Chambers Toyota of Auburn blatantly lied to my wife and I recently.
In a nutshell as follows:
An inexperienced sales person took the most simple of business transactions and made an honest mistake due to lack of experience. We researched a Camry with specific options, brought in the internet quote and they agreed to sell it to us at invoice. The whole process took 30 minutes. The salesman entered "LA" package instead of "QC" on the electronic order form and presented it for signature. It only said "leather package", without any further detail on the options page. (The "QC" package is $300 more and includes heated seats and mirrors.) The car was delivered a month later, looked great, but was not as requested. They acknowledged the salesman's oversight, and offered to split the cost of aftermarket heated seats at $550 each. We agreed, recognizing that we should have brushed up on dealer option lingo prior to signing on the dotted line. When I picked the car up with an unexplainable 135 new miles on it (on the second attempt because it was hacked up the first time) I asked for an itemized receipt. I have asked four times and been there in person to request one. All they will provide is an EFT report from Timberline or some equivalent indicating the check was deposited into Herb's vault of gold at Citizen's bank. "No itemized receipt is available" I have been told. Well, I know where the heated seats were installed, and I know they cost $499 a pair retail, but several members of the sales staff have looked me in the eye and stated "We are splitting the cost".

To the sales staff, they only see a customer that likely will not return. Not that it matters, but I am an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician with 20 years in the industry, most in management, who just wanted to buy his wife a new car. I know all too well how the industry works, and wish I had found this site and many others like it before my purchase. Perhaps I will update this when we finish in small claims.

Moral of the story; Never pay a dealer to warm your ass. You might get burned.

Scott · 2 years ago

come on people. I have been in the car business for just over a year and half. salespeople will do what they can to make a sale, sale equals money. Some salespeople are dishonest but so are some customers its that simple. While selling fords at another nonHC dealer in Norwood I was told by a customer that his caddilac was in great shape and worth all the money. Sadly to say we put a deal together based on his assesment of the vehicle. When he showed up with the caddy it had more dents and dings than a nascar, 20K more miles that he said and needed an exhaust. He got mad at me and told me I was unfair in my assesment of his car.
This has happened more often than not, customers being dishonest about their vehicles. Next issue, if you have bad credit and cant pay for your KIA why do you think that we can get you into something newer and more expensive for less money, pay your bills. Read about your credit online and see what you need to do to fix it. Selling cars is about making money car dealers will always try to make money so when you dont read what you signed until later we are the bad guys. I even had someone come in and test drive a mustang GT convt. with manual trans. 3 days later the wife comes back in and wants her money back, her reason, she didnt know it was a manual and could not drive it, she test drove it.
Customers are more often than not to blame for the problems, not to say that the car business is the most honest. I was in the Army for 11 years and have been injured in Iraq so suck up that you didnt read all the fine print or ask the right questions. Lesson learned.

Mike M · 2 years ago

Did you ever here the statement, buyers are liers!! It's unfortunate, but the truth. Also, when you sell a car before seeing the trade, it's very simple to put on the ps, subject to seeing the trade!! No, I do not work for Chambers and never will. People, Always remember. Never sign and Pay for a vehicle that the dealer does not have phisically!! or, if they have the car and not the title, do not sign. it's illegal in Mass. for a dealer to sell a vehicle that they do not have a title for.Yes, leave a refundable deposit if you really want it, but dont pay for it. In closing, referring to my first statement about buyers are liers, although sometimes true, its the sales people that made us like that. Not all sales people lie, but most stretch the truth!!

Anonymous · 2 years ago

And you wonder where dealers get a bad reputation! Blame the customer, not so smart. Ironically, you see all these Chambers commercials showing how different he is from other dealers. Just make up on a pig.

anonymous · 2 years ago

I was thinking of going down to HC Lexus to look at cars and hopefully find a decent RX330 and then I came across this website. No way will I waste my time after hearing how so many others have been treated. Sound like a bunch of real sleaze bags!

amazed · 2 years ago

Wow. I can't think of a better way of spending ten minutes. Some of these posts are just hilarious. The Chambers employees are not doing Herb, themselves, or anyone in the business any favors. Herb, while you're on your $60,000,000 yacht you should log on and read.

I'm a high level manager in the automobile industry. I love what I do. Helping people is a fun and rewarding experience. I'd like everyone to understand that the vast majority of professionals in this business are honest, competent, and most of all caring. Sure, it gets tough to please everyone, and let's face it, some people are not very nice, but it's a good business to be a part of. The reason for my post is to simply remind you that it's your friend, your neighbor, your nephew, or your son that is workign in this very challenging industry. Cars today are more complex than the first Apollo space craft. Give us the opportunity to help you and we'll do our best.

The other reason for my post is to proudly admit that I have hired many ex-employees from the HC Corp. They are talented, committed, and for the most part are just looking for a good home. As far as great employers are concerned in this business, their getting harder and harder to find as the big guys (Herb) are buying up all the small guys.

If you deal with a small local dealer now please do what you can to keep them in business. If you're dealing with the big guy, well it seems you may or may not be happy. You may have saved $5.00 a month, but what did you get in return?

Anyway, since Herb is worth $1.6 Billion (yeah, with a "B") it's doubtful that he can relate to anyone anymore.

Best wishes to all the consumers and automotive professionals out there, keep doing your best to treat the customer like family.

Mike M · 2 years ago

nice post

Anonymous · 2 years ago

I to am unhappy with Herb Chambers. I bought a car a month ago and am waiting for the title. I have been told I will have a rental and don't have that yet either. I am still waiting! I'm getting it in writing that they pay my first car payment. The same thing happened to my brother he had to wait for his title. It is not right.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

if you dont get a title at the time of sale, they are breaking the law! Technically, you can get a refund of the purchase. I would call the Attorney General's office.

anonymous · 2 years ago

A car is just a car. I want the car to be reliable and get me from A to B safely. So I am glad there are options other than Herb Chambers out there, and I will take my business elsewhere after my recent experience. I know there are not the appropriate channels within the Herb Chambers company, or the industry, for that matter, to address what happened to me, so when I saw this website I thought I might at least be able to warn others.

I was told the price of a car. I gave my credit card for deposit. I was happy and excited about finally having my car search behind me. I should have known that was far too easy. I recieved a follow-up call to come back to the dealership because there had been a "mistake". It seems, the salesperson and the manager had a miscommunication and made a "mistake" where the price I had been quoted, and agreed to, was $2000 wrong. The offer was $2000 less than it should have been. When I resisted this extra charge, I was treated with complete and utter cruelty. I was called a thief. Apparently, according to the dealership, this was all my fault. I was told I was an awful person, someone that would steal groceries from an old lady or not return someone else's belongings. I would steal, I would lie. I must be "Miss Perfect" if I couldn't understand their mistake. As I was berated, I sat there uncomfortably, other than trying to get a word in edgewise to say that actually I wouldn't steal from someone else, I didn't know what to do. I am woman. As my discomfort increased, nervous laughter escaped at one point. I was told sit there - smirk! laugh! sigh! You are a bad person. You think you are perfect. Well, sorry, I am not Mr. Perfect he said, and I make mistakes. He told me that he was a good person, and I was trying to take advantage of him. Afraid to respond, and unsure how to handle his attack, I got up to leave. At this point, he began to raise his voice more so, to scream at me, loudly enough for everyone in showroom to hear, saying that he "Did not want the business of a person like me. Get out!" He followed behind me and yelled back to someone at his front desk dramatically to call the police. I got in my car, and drove away as far as I could handle, then pulled over and cried my heart out. What kind of treatment was that? I am extremely saddened. I know that I should not take personal offense to this incident. I am sure it is one of many that man would have on that day. I am sure he sleeps just fine every night. I won't. It does impact me. I am sure that other dealerships lie and scam to get what they want from the customer, too. But this just seems outrageous to me.

This is my Herb Chambers story.

Foo Foo · 2 years ago

DO NOT PURCHASE ANYTHING FROM HERB CHAMBERS - HONDA. I have had a horrible experience with them. Treated with the utmost disrespect, lied too, and charged for tires which I did not agree too.
I am so disappointed. How can Herb Chambers sleep at night knowing how his staff are ripping people off?

Anonymous · 2 years ago

These stories are unbelieveable! Why doesn't someone take this guy down!?

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Following a 3 hour negotiation and putting a deposit down on a Wednesday evening, I was told to return on Friday to do paperwork and supply the plates for registration. Upon returning Friday AM, (sitting in the showroom) I was called by the salesman saying he was having "trouble getting the car"... I told him that I was in the showroom and hoped they could figure it out quickly. Once the finance manager came to meet me he claimed to be ignorant of the whole situation and put me on the phone with the salesman who had taken the day off. I was then informed that the car had been sold by Herb Chambers BMW the day before!! The service from this point forward was awful... easily a dozen examples of terrible service, from being ignorned to being shooed out of the showroom. The issue is ongoing and exhausting.

anonymous · 2 years ago

You'll love this Herb Chambers experience....my husband and I were actually made fun of by the sales manager, to the finance manager right to our faces! He found it necessary to poke fun at the fact that we were purchasing a new, base model pick-up truck. Let me let you in on something, Herb Chambers....not everyone on the planet has to buy a fully loaded, all the bells whistles vehicle to impress their neighbors in order to feel accomplished in life. Not that there is anything wrong with buying such a vehicle if it makes you happy, but...if you are buying a pick-up for a work vehicle why would you trick it out when in all likelihood you are going to beat on it (filling it with dirt, hay, rocks, brush etc)? I guess the problem lies in too many "desk jockies" buying pick-ups these days, never actually using the vehicle for its intended purpose (other than throwing the family christmas tree in it once a year). Being made fun of right in front of us was not only unimaginably rude, it was infantile and showed a complete lack of tact and professionalism on the sales manager's part. I will never return to herb Chambers.

NUF-CED · 2 years ago

NUF-CED, I WILL NOT BY A CAR FROM ANY HERB CHAMBERS DEALER

Mike M · 2 years ago

the person that bought a car with no title, there is no title, therefore their is no loan yet. the bank will not fund the dealer on your deal until a copy of the title is produced. Do not let the dealer act like a hero and tell you they are making a payment. get your money back on the deal and go elsewhere!! If you dont, its on you!

Mike M · 2 years ago

IF A DEALER CAN NOT SHOW YOU A TITLE OR A CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN(for brand new vehicles) ON A VEHICLE YOU WANT TO PURCHASE, DO NOT BUY IT!!!! AND I AM NOT TALKING ABOUT A COPY!!

John O · 2 years ago

I goggled Herb Chambers as I am in the market for a Mercedes, though having spent the past half hour reading the above and in particular the blog from the Banker from Hong Kong, I have changed my mind. I will find another Merc dealer in the Boston area.
The HC Employees who blog really should spend some quality time in school taking creative writing. Their comments are incoherent and ridiculous.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

try Clair in Westwood, Ive had great service from them.

anonymous · 2 years ago

Employees of HC. If you are out there how is he to work for now that the company is employee owned?

I also just want to make a point. In order for HC to be in the luxury car market he needs a tremendous amount of really good customer service scores.

You cannot get a Bently dearlership on bad "service/sales complaints. And that goes for Mercedes, BMW etc......you just won't get the franchise.

When you do the amount of business that HC does you are always going to get a good 5% of dissatisfaction, for every 95% of satisfaction.

I do not work for him nor have I ever purchased anything from him, but fair is fair.

In general, buyers have an imbedded fear of salespeople and service people.
They enter into the folds with the expectation that "something" bad is going to happen and I won't be able to handle it.

So, if they are just looked at the wrong way or if they don't like the tone etc of the person talking to them their defenses go up and they run to blog their horrible experience.

People.......if you truly had such horrible experiences why didn't you go to a lawyer or the attorney general. You know, once the AG has enough complaints about someone they are shut down. So if you where truly dealt "bad deals" why didn't you do some serious complaining instead of this blogging crap,

Another thing google any car dealer, you people have plagued them all. The intelligent buyer/service customer doesn't have these problems and/or
knows how to deal with them.

HC didn't make billions doing the wrong thing...........you don't like being ripped off? Go to Boch, he makes the devil look sweet.

You people are a bunch of overly sensitive born mad people to begin with.

Mike M · 2 years ago

Obviously you work for Boch. Simply pompass ass comments!! you would be a great HC employee. After working for a new car dealer the past 18 years and having to put up with the changing way's of the auto industrie ie: the survey's you talk about, it is not all true that he can not open another franchise. He has a checkbook big enough to buy anything he wants. Although the CSI scoring is a small factor, no one will keep HC from buying what he wants. The Auto industry is so down in numbers they will do whatever it takes to stay alive! HC just bought Foriegn Motors West, and I happen to know he is in the bottom 50% in csi with his Toyota stores, Chevy store and Lexus store. He is in the top 50% in 4 out of his 40 stores, middle of the road on most others. No one here will ever get his store's closed down no matter how much complaining you do. Call the AG and you will get your complaint satisfied by the HC group. They are not going to let complaints go un-answered. Tactic's throughout the industry are common throughout. Including Boch. Try to buy that advertised vehicle at one of those stores. It just got sold!! Every time? Give me a break!!

anonymous · 2 years ago

Me work for Boch? Are you kidding? I agree with you on that wonderful adverstised car that just got sold, but, if you feel you where truly ripped off than go the AG. Enough complaints and he gets a juicy fine.

This is just a way to blow off steam, but it doesn't solve anything. Toyota's CSI is taken very seiously, and he wouldn't own the franchie with bad csi.

And that's the facts!!!!!!!!!!!!Oh, by the way I don't work for HC either.

Scott · 2 years ago

OK Mike M first off. You work for a dealer and are the GSM? What dealership? I work at Mercedes in Natick and have worked at another dealer in my short time. HC companies are one of the best to work for. He has national ranking in customer satisfaction and sales, he does own 42 dealerships. Boch and all the other dealers do the same things. I was held hostage at Boch Honda while they couldnt find my keys to a vehicle I was going to trade. I had to dial the Norwood Police and then my keys came back to me.
Customer satisfaction is a key to selling anything. Sure you can complain about this and that no matter where you go. Noone is perfect and noone will be. Overall most customers are happy and do come back to Herb Chambers, Boch and Quirk. That is why each one of them is growing you keep coming back to them.
People are taught to hate salesmen from day one. Do you argue price when you go out to eat? Perhaps at the grocery store? Toys for the kids?? NO you dont, you accept that there is mark up and pay right away, ever buy gas for your car? In sales the goal is to make profit. You the consumer have a luxury of negotiating price when shopping for a car. What if you had to pay sticker every time you bought a car??? This is give and take for both parties. Most salesmen make about 200-500 per car sold at best. How much do you make a week?? He would be shooting himself if he sold it right away at a low low price.
Customers need to be educated when they come into the dealerships. Here are some tips for customers to get the best deal.
1) dont email or call and ask for best price you have to go in and spend some time. If you can call ahead and make an appointment to optimize your time.
2)Do not buy anything if you are not totally in love with it.
3)Be respectful and give your real name and phone number, we will call and try to get you back in the dealership this is how we make money.
4) If you bought something else then let someone know you did dont lie to sales people.
5)Price is most important to you but really I asked numerous people who bought their cars this past week and 1 out of 5 could remember what they paid.
6) Everything can be negotiated so please be patient and really if we are at the third pencil- number on paper that really is about all you are going to get we have nothing left to give and do need to make money.
I hope all of you can take this advice and make your next shopping trip good.

anonymous · 2 years ago

Here is something I did and boy did it work. I have been driving Acuras for almost 15 years now. I started servicing at Acura of Boston but found Claire to be closer and tried them. They had a female service rep and boy did she do a number on me. I won't be jerked around.

I called and wrote to Acura. This was 12 years ago. I told them exactly what she did to me and that the dealership backed her up.

I received a letter of appology from Acura and she is no longer working for them. As far as Claire Acura, my complaint is still out there and boy do I get the red carpet every time I go in. It works. Instead of blogging your complaint write to the manufacturer and if they are credible like Acura you will get action.

Here is another on. Just last year I went to Claire Acura for a simple service. They did what they where supposed to do, but told me the next time I come in I will need this and that. Well, the car is only 3 years old, out of warranty and I am the second owner, but still, it's an Acura, and the things they told me I needed seemed a little outrageous. So I wrote to Acura.

Within 3 days I received a phone call from Acura. They explained that these items are wear and tear items and if I am having a problem paying for them they will help me. The repairs totaled $700. They sent me a check for $250 and called the dearlership and asked them to do what they could to make it easier for me. They gave me a $100.00 discount per service. All together is ended up costing me out of pocket $350.00.

To show my appreciation I wrote a wonderful letter to Claire which they have posted in their service room for other customers to see, and they have a whole wall full of these letters.

And the red carpet is still out there. I love it. Now I live in Ashland and had to use Herb Connolly in Framingham. Holy Cow..........I went right back to Claire, I don't care how far I have to travel.

Go to google and type this " complaints against name of your dealer"
Watch what comes up. They all have these complaints you can't please everyone all the time. I LOVE ACURA'S.

Ernie · 2 years ago

Google attorney general complaints about Herb Cgambers and you'll find they are ranked first in the State! You will also learn he is a huge contributor to the AG. Any questions?

Mike M · 2 years ago

Oh, so what you are saying is the AG is on HC's payroll? First in the state for complaints? And in reply Scott, I work in a store in Worcester area. I here what your saying but as you know we all have our 2 cents worth. I know quite a few people that have worked and still worked at HC. The ones that work there love it and the ones that no longer work there have horror stories to tell. Although that is typically how it works especially if you did not leave on your own terms! We just happen to be mostly speaking of the HC companies because of this site. I am sure there are other sites about other companies that are similar. I'm sure you know plenty of others in the car business that could tell you a horror story about where they work too! Iknow I do.

Lalith · 2 years ago

Hi : I am an unforunate victim of HerbChambers empire.
I have bought a R500, S500, S550 4 matic, a G55, and ML350, and several other cars from Herb chambers of Lynnfiled.
The servicve department is at best useless.
I took my G55 for service, I paid the bill, When I went to pick up the car the dash board was ripped , and all the mechanics trash was still inside the car, car was a mess in the interior. The never washed the cars after service for me. Then I looked the web to find out Nattick dealership is also taken over by Herb.
I am more than mad.

I should look for a dealer who is not Herb, who can deliver good service. I am fed up with Herb .

I am sending this to you as I cannot find the e mail of your customer service head if there is any such person.
I am tired of complaining, Mike Hanafin acts like he is a loard .

This incedent happened on 10/22/07.

Forward this to Herb Chambers , and all in the enterprise.

I am determined to find a way to rectify this kind of wrong done to me by Flagship of Lynnfield.

You know how to contact JDPowell , who is the state agency that deal with these .
TV people , who will get me action.

I am more than angry frustrated and humiliated.

Lalith Tissera,MD
Melrose wakefield Behavioral Health
11 Lafayette st
Wakefield, MA 01880.

Mike M · 2 years ago

If you look up 4 comments there is a name there. Its Scott. He works there at the Natick store. Maybe he can help you.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Contact Merecedes at 201-573-0600 and ask for Ernest Lieb

Lalith · 2 years ago

I had the misfortune of being talked down to by a bully manager of Herb by the name Mark.
Herbs bullies do not believe in customer service.They think We are at their mercy. They are arrogant ,rude, crude and ignorant.
Herb is too rich to be a polite business man he hires bullies and thugs. My experience is that. They have attempted to cheat me before.
I have the misfortune I have to spend time getting aggravted by idiots,
I want to see him go under.

Nancy · 2 years ago

We bought a used Hyundai Sonata from Herb Chambers in WEstboro, MA. AS part of the deal, they were to put on four new tires, new brakes, and do the 36,000 mile service. Here it is October, and we just had to go to a tire dealer and purchase 4 new tires because the tires put on the Hyundai were defective (Belts broke). This was after shelling out over $300.00 for an alignment (which they said was the problem). We had less than 10,000 miles on the tires. When we took it back to them last week and said replace the tires - they gave us the run around and told us they would call to set up a service appointment - meanwhile we're driving around on unsafe tires. I'm looking for a corporate address or someone to write to that will hear what we say - because when we call, write the dealership we get no response.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Call JIm Xaros at 617-763-1000, he's the VP

peter · 2 years ago

Any bad luck @ HC lexus???

Lalith · 2 years ago

I wrote apolite note to Herb Chmbers the billionaire.
I went to a car serviced , I paid for service. They did not comply with their job.
They have always made it an unpleaseant filthy , nauseating experience my going into their glass house.
The service department guys always make electric jobs complicated.
When they fix something they break another.
The bully Mark was upset with me.
The reason, I told him that his apology means nothing to me , if keep doing the same mistake.
His attitude was he has been merciful to me he offered an apology, I should be glad that billionaires subordinate apologize.
I am sad, this experience has made me think a lot.
Human dignity , politeness has no place in the car dealship , or sales culture in the USA.
MB USA should outsource the services to polite competent aliens - not the USimmigration service definition of aliens- I mean Martians or some other bunch of creatures or robots.
These kind of experiences have made me stay away from any dealing with infra human creatures.
I will not go to a car dealerships for ever.
Explain to me why people are so arrogant, do they get a thrill being so.
People like scott can help me understand the minds of these types.
I am polite, I never will to go to the level of a barking dog.
My being a naturalized citizen not a mascular man has anything to do with this , I don't know.
These bullies are not human. They have muscles. Very little brains, I think.
Too much fast food and coffee and stress in making more and more.
I will sit back an observe your responses.

I also wrote to Herr.Lieb - I found out Herr .Lieb is the President of MB USA.
I don't want to obsess about this anymore.
My anger is the way that bully shouted at me was not called for.
I can clearly and politely speak to any devil, yet the devils at Herbs , i couldn't tame.

Mike M · 2 years ago

You are obviously one of the good guy's. You are also correct in almost everything you say. Isolated instance's yet the one thing a customer remember's is the last thing told to them as they are walking out the door. There is your lasting impression. Most all that I read here is of a similar instance involving differant people. As far as that saying about helping people buy car's not selling people car's, well, I don't really agree with it. All in all, well said!

rpg · 2 years ago

what a post by a public relations guy. My experiences with Herb Chambers have been bad for the most part. Not sure if Herb is aware of it or not, or if the a** kissers keep it away from him. My emails went unswered, that tells you something. I bought my 2000 300M at herb. The sale job was good. The scary part was on I first took it to service: they washed the car with brushes, well, you know how the scratches in the paint all over. I visited them again for a minivan this year. I was going to buy it. There was just a question of financing. No bad sales person comes with a monthly payment, that's a store policy. Nissan Marlboro thanked you. Now I'm looking to buy a Ford, and unlucky enough they bought the dealership in westborough. Well Ford, you're going to sell one less car. I really don't care how many dealerships they have, if I have to go buy what I want out of state I will. Herb Chambers is a place to avoid. Oh, should I say that after the store wash with brushes they never saw my 300M again? Herb Chambers will continue to do just fine because the market is full of unsuspected buyers.

Richard B. Johnson · 2 years ago

I brought my truck into Herb Chambers Service Department in Danvers, MA., this morning at 7:30 AM. I waited until 7:45 AM for them to open the door even though they advertised 7:30 AM and instructed me to bring in my truck at that time. They were supposed to call me at work when they were through diagnosing the problem (I need a brake job). It is now 3:30 PM. I called them at 1:00 PM and an acid lady told me that they would call be when they had completed their "diagnosis."

If my truck isn't ready tonight, I don't know how I'm going to get home. I is my sole means of transportation and I live 66 miles away.

former customer/salesperson · 2 years ago

yes I feel all your pain. As you all can gather I worked there and Bought a car there. I quit because "managment" would promise the world and deliver SHIT!!!
thus pissing off the customer which then became our problem. dont worry tho
pay back was a bitch. first there was a problem with the car thay sold me (used) thay took it fix it. to no suprise car was returned the same as given with the exception of one removed car alarm and one oil change of course complimentry.. so about two days later brought it back this time I was given A complimentry Loaner Brand new camry with only 20 miles on it. what a great car actually bought one for my next car. NOT from herb chambers of course
so any way turns out my car needs a new engine great well it took so long for that engine to come in and be instaled I had the camry long enough to put 4200 miles on the car. then one day I get the call your car is ready can we have our car back we have it sold. "Is my alarm in??? no thay say. so I say No not till my alarm is back in my car. well the police show up at my house asking if i have a stollen car belongig to herb chambers I said yes i have their car no its not stolen I further explianed my situation turns out he and his wife got snow balled from there as well he said take the car back . OK well on the way to the dealership I was at a stop sighn when I got rear ended thus pushing me forward where the front got kissed by a small pickup well the car was drivable and the report filed not my fault. HERB got back his SOLD camry and I said Fuck the alarm and car . Claimed the lemon law and bought a new Camry..

PS. revenge is a dish best served cold.... as some wise person once said.

Nancy · 2 years ago

I have written called, e-mailed - and no response. So - as I shared a few weeks ago - we had to buy 4 new tires from a different place and are now at that money - plus the $300.00 plus that we paid for an "alignment" that didn't work. I did file a complaint with Better Business Bureau, but in my experience that never goes anywhere either. At this point, I'd be satisfied to just get paid for the replacement tires (for 4 new tires that were put on new when we purchaesd the car). Guess I won't hold my breath waiting! I also won't ever go near a Herb Chambers dealership of any kind again - and will do my best to make sure anyone I know doesn't as well.

Diva · 2 years ago

My eyes are burning because of all the testimonials I have read. I used to be an employee for this wrethced company. I was a student at the time that got up at 5 am everyday and worked until 9 pm at their store everyday. I was underpaid and under appreciated. In the end, I threatened the GM at the Boston Honda store with a lawsuit of sexual harrasment because he was a sleeze and if you google him you'll know what I mean. After I did my research it turns out that 2 other women took him to court and sued his ass! Why that idiot Chambers still keeps him around I have no idea. So when I asked the e-commerce manager to talk to chambers and the GM about what happened, they replied a month later with "you have no proof and your accusations are lies" Well of course theyre going to say that, they want to protect their name. But, how can you call me a liar when you were not there? It was only him an I when he decided to grab his balls and give me a seductive look. I would be happy to tear his fucking eyes out and there isnt a day that goes by without me wanting to get back at him. What can I say, I speak about it everywhere and when I went to another Honda store, I took all my clientel with me and Im glad I dont work there anymore.

Anonymous · 2 years ago

After seeing on the internet sight for Herb Chambers' Ford in Westboro a great price for a used 2007 Mustang Convertible, I drove over 2 hours from my home in Connecticut to make a deal for the car. The sticker price was so great that I wasn't even going to make much of an effort to haggle the price down, it was already well below what I was willing to pay. But anyway, the weather was terrible, raining the past few days. When I had arrived at the dealership, about 20 minutes after they opened, I saw the Mustang I was set to buy sitting out by the entrance....with the top down. I thought to myself, "They must have just moved it out by the entrance to attract attention to it, surely they didn't leave the top down ALL night in the pouring rain." Upon walking up to the car, I noticed the seats were soaked, then I noticed the cup holders were overflowing with water. They had left the top down all night in the rain. I was horrified. I knew there was no way I could buy the car and that I had wasted a day driving all the way up there. The best part however, was when the manager tried to sell me the extended warranty, at their cost, for $1,000. Laughable. Then he offered to dry the mats off. Believe me when I tell you, this car was soaked to the core. I said "what about mold and electrical problems?" He says it's no big deal, that'd he'd left his convertible top down in a snowstorm and had over 6 inches of snow in the car. Are you kidding me? I don't believe that for a second. I tried to warn CarFax, but to no avail. Unfortunately someone probably ended up buying the car and isn't aware of the kind of mold problems that could end up ruining the entire car in a short time. I wish I had found this site sooner, I probably never would have gone up there in the first place. The salesman was nice and didn't say or do anything that irritated or made me angry, however the manager was just an ignorant little jerk.

fool me once · 2 years ago

I read all these posts and say fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice. And i tried to give them a second chance to buy a car from them. Two different dealerships, same type of morans. Treated a woman alone shopping like I was stupid. Know whos stupid?, the car dealer who cant close a deal and lets me purchase over sixty grand in cars elsewhere. You are sooo stupid, theres always going to be another dealer selling the same kind of car and I will buy it elsewhere. What goes around comes around

Tony @ Honda Of Seekonk · 2 years ago

It is funny how the customer comes in with a plan and lies to their salesperson about everthing. For example they say I have 16,000 on this car at another store and they sales person will say I am sorry that is a great deal I can not beat and then the customers say "well what can you do?". What does it matter? We salespeople get a name like liers and snakes but we tell them everthing they want to know. You ask for invoice we show it to you. We will even buy you car even if you do not buy one from us. Customers always ask whats the interest rate? Well here is the scoop WE DO NOT KNOW untill we send the whole deal to the bank. And if you are made because its too high pay your damn bills! oh and if our invoice on the car 12,000, what would you get in your mind to offer us 10,000? to even pay invoice (what we pay for all of you slow ones) on the car you have to put a big blue sign with a H on it and that cost about 12,000,000.00. The fact of the matter is that you (the customer) get upset with the dealership because you could not get your way on the sales aspect of it and when you in for service you get upset because you have not changed your oil for a year and we wont fix your blown engine. Their our a few bad apple in the Herb Chambers Company that we would like to get rid of and if you are having trouble with one of these people call the gm of the store and if he is one of them call the gm of another store and ask for Herbs number or help. We will help you. Herb loves his employees and loves his customers that why I find this as an insult. Just remember when you call in the 800 number and then come in and complain that one of our reps said something about a car being here or a price they will sell it for ask them to play the recording they record all incoming call on the toll free line. and for all those people who are like randell who say we write like we are 8 year old...when the last time a person like Herb insulted you Now who is the 8 year old again?

Tony @ Honda Of Seekonk · 2 years ago

I would like to say I am sorry for all of the people who took my blog in a neg way. I do not mean to sound like the "HERb Chambers employee" I read these blogs an got upset because I felt like I was personally being attacked for things out of my controll. Herb teaches us,like a father and we are his family,not to be like a typical car salesman. when we get hired we go to school in the corp office to get trained the right way. We do have a meeting once a month that I get up a 5:00 in the am for him to instill the costomer satisfaction rule in our mind buy talking and showing us video about people in other companys going that extra mile. and then he passes out awards to those who sold the most cars (mvp) but you have to have a good customer satisfacton score on you servey. So when I hear all of these people attacking Herb I get offensive and I souldn't have . I should Have said I was sorry for their experence and That they try us again for us to make it up to them. For all those who read all these blogs From us the employees and those upset customers please remember their are three side theirs, ours, and what reallly happened. Try a herb chambers store for your self if its bad come back and leave a blog but if its good come back and leave a blog too. It is you customers that let me work for a great company like herb chambers and for that I thank you!

Anonymous · 2 years ago

Tony, you're not doing you dad Herb Chambers any favors. First, he has more employees coming and going that he should install revolving doors in his dealerships. Second, he gets so many complaints, not just here, but everywhere, that Herb Chambers tries to buy favors from politicians and the Attorney Generals. Third, I will GUARANTEE you that you won't be at Honda of Seekonk by next summer.

anonymous · 2 years ago

the office payroll department in the millbury store are less than truthful. when you confront them, beware, they claim they never said this.. i've read this blog
on herb c i believe this is all very true.

tony · 2 years ago

Really That is funny cause I have been at this store since 2003 why won't I be here by the summer? And as far as the dad comment I was try to say that he teaches us like a father if you have kids you know what i mean repeatedly telling us over and over again how we are sopose to take care of customers. The funny part is selling over 40,000 cars a year and if we get a few "dis" satisfied customers I think we are still doing a great job. oh and at my dealership the only salespeople that go are the ones you people are complaining about the good ones have been here for atleast 5 years.

Ken · 1 year ago

My wife and I went to the Auburn, MA. Herb Chambers to look at a used Subaru. When we wanted to test drive we were told that the "Manager" had taken it home, but we could make an "appointment" to test drive in a couple days. When we went back for our appointment, the car was not available. We asked about a used Hyundai that they brought to our attention, but could not drive that car because it was in Braintree. We ran away as fast as we could. Unfortunitally, we ended up at another "Herb", but this one was a "Connolly" in Natick. They refused to repair a ding in the passangers door and refused to put floor mats in. AVOID ALL "Herb" dealerships, they are one in the same!!

another dealership · 1 year ago

ken what you forgot to say is you did a great job in the negotiations. so good in fact there was no money left in the car so after everything was said and done, when you knew they was no more money you asked for the mats and ding to get fix. after all they dealership must get that stuff for free right . not just at herb chambers but at evry dealership it is the same story you people dont want the haggle buy a saturn they dont move off sticker.

Mike M · 1 year ago

You people need to understand something (and I do not work for HC) If you want a perfect car with no dings and floormats included, buy a new one. Is your used car "DING FREE" ? As a matter of fact, floor mats are an option in most new vehicles, and they run anywhere from 60 to 100 bucks. Lets not be stupid

Scott · 1 year ago

Mike thanks and sorry for the hotheaded words earlier, as you know this is a bad subject for anyone in the industry.
I was sitting around today and thought hey, why do we devalue our products for the public. I mean really if you go to buy sox tickets from a dealer you will pay more than face for them, trust me that is why I work so hard so I can afford them. Here we are with products that the public wants, New C300, Mustangs, Tahoes whatever you sell that is hot. We take away our money once the customer walks in the door. Imagine a day when the sticker said, $31,875 and could then they say whats can you get it to me for, answer $42,675!!!! because of demand. No instead even when we have something the public wants we discount it. Think about it they dont discount gas, food, clothes or any other things we WANT.
Customers are going to get mad and some are going to not get the great treatment. HC companies sell 125 cars a day on average, can you please three times that a day? I you took all the people in your life right now and thought about I bet you have made some of them mad from time to time. It is impossible to please all the people all the time. HC companies do an outstanding job at pleasing most of the people most of the time. JD Powers seems to agree.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Does Herb Chambers offer employee grammar, punctuation, and English classes? Maybe they can make it part of the Herb Chambers customers are never right training program that seems to have been very effective. Of course, Herb Chambers never finished high school, so maybe he hires stupid people he can manipulate! Keep in mind it is the customer that pays your bills and keeps Herb's yacht running!

Nancy · 1 year ago

The only thing we want is reimbursement for defective tires that were put on our card and we had to replace. We get no responses to e-mails, letters or calls, so I guess we know who got the short end of that stick. Mention Herb Chambers to us - and we'll let you know exactly what we think. Defective tires - unnecessary alignment ($300.+ including labor) and having to purchase tires elsewhere because of the safety factor.

Herb Chambers dealerships - NEVER AGAIN - and will do our best to discourage others from going as well.

Rick · 1 year ago

At Herb Chambers of Westborough MA, I spoke on the phone with a man by the name of Josh Mono, about a 2007 Honda Odyssey. I wanted to trade in my leased 2005 Accord and try to keep the same payments with a 2007 Odyssey. The payment I currently have is around $227.00 a month. I told Josh that I had been to a couple of different Honda dealers and that I was close to making a deal with Auto Fair out of Manchester.

Josh told me that he could get me a deal of $270.00 a month or even better. I told Josh that I din't want to waste his time or mine, because I was also coming from Londonderry NH, about an hour away. Josh told me don't worry about it, we will be able to take care of you.

Needless to say, I went to the dealership, this deal was no way able to even happen. They were asking me for $5,200.00 , for this to happen. I just want people to know that I deal with clientel on a daily basis, this is no way to handle a potential customer. I do not reccomend this dealership to anyone. It is sad to say, that these people, do not care about you, they just want to get you into the dealership and then finagle you into buying something.

Very bad business.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Did you tell him you did not want to put any money down when you talked to him on the phone? It's almost impossible to come out of a vehicle (especially a lease) with no money down and have the same payment on a newer vehicle. Just wondering!

Anon · 1 year ago

There is a Herb Chambers next to where I live, I would go there this weekend to check a few cars. Good that I googled their name and ended up here.

I read only a couple of comments but it was enough -- no way I am buying anything from them!

By the way, the comments from employees were very convincing.. It shows how incompetent they are...

Anonymous · 1 year ago

if you bought an api service contract from any herb chambers store cancel it now and get your money back. api went bankrupkt and herb 's dealerships have been giving customers a hard time on refunds

Anonymous · 1 year ago

As a matter of fact, if you bought an API extened warranty from any Dealer, go get your money back!!

scott · 1 year ago

So I am back on here again checking the list of complaints and seeing if there was a way I could help. As for grammar I am not going to be writing in queens english so deal. As for hiring dumb employees, I see we have gone back to third grade with the name calling. I have finished High School and then a nice long time in the US Army till I got injured so sorry i didnt rush off to college like you, someone had to do something while you were scared.
Reading some of these complaints I find it funny that the "customer" never really posts a name with the complaint on here. Another funny thing I see more and more is that noone has said anything about good treatment? How can a man have 42 dealerships and continue to make all this money with the competition in the area if we treat everyone soooo wrong.
If you as a customer have a complaint call or go back into the dealership and talk to the manager and if that does not get you results then ask for the general manager.
Keep in mind this is a business and we are here to make money. Take your time and read all the contracts you sign. If you have questions ask, ask for the carfax. Do take a test drive in every vehicle you look at they all drive different. If you are not in love with the car let the saleman or woman know that you are not in love with the car and price wont matter at that point. They will in turn offer you another vehicle to see if that meets your needs.
One last thing if you really are not looking to get a vehicle and just seeing what a car is like please just look on the internet.

Nancy · 1 year ago

After contacting the Better Business Bureau (when we got no response from Herb CHambers Ford in Westboro), we were finally able to reach a compromise settlement on our issue.

There is a new Service Manager at Herb Chambers Ford, WEstboro, and he was very polite, making sure that all our concerns and issues were dealt with - and we were offered - and accepted - an acceptable refund for the trouble we had with this dealership during the summer.

Thank you Frank - at Herb Chambers Ford in Westboro

Sam · 1 year ago

As a person who works every holiday season for a luxury retail store, What shocks me most about this blog is not the customer complaints--not by a mile. What shocks me most is that actual employees are writing into this blog, going unnamed, and making seriously offensive comments about general clients.

If one of the criticisms of Herb Chambers sales managers is that they can be aloof, inconsiderate, or arrogant, the last thing a sales person should write into a blog like this is judgemental, almost vicious attacks on their customer base. It basically just confirms what the critical blogs are suggesting: that there is a contingent of HC employees who are extremely unprofessional.

For those employees, who are writing in, and attacking and justifying their attacks of current/past/future HC customers, I strongly advise you to rethink what you are doing and how you are horribly representing your company. I think Herb Chambers himself would be horrified, and I'll give you an example why. I'm in the market to buy a new car. I looked up Herb Chambers. I found this site. I was curious. I read all these blogs. Nothing, nothing upset me more than reading the employees criticizing "the customer." I was actually fine with the various experiences, good and bad, of various customers. What shocked me and has made me question going to HC is that actual employees took the time to not defend their company, but attack a group of people who shop there. That is the worst business tactic I can think of, and be careful because you are not doing yourself or Herb Chambers any favors with this kind of abusive language on a legitimate blog.

Honda Guy · 1 year ago

I am on my fifth new vehicle from Herb Chambers and have never had a problem. As Herb Chambers is probably the largest car dealer company in New England, they are bound to get a few unhappy customers. Not by design, but because of the crazy things employees sometimes do. I know, I have 92 employees in my company. 99.9% of the time they are great. However, wacky stuff happens sometimes. If anyone has a complaint with a company they should write to the company owner directly. I am sure Herb Chambers did not become so successful by accident. "The guy on top of the mountain, didn't fall there."

Anonymous · 1 year ago

It's very simple ... Herb Chambers talks about being victimized by car dealers, who were arrogant and out of touch. Well, guess what, he now is that car dealer! Try calling his office, see if you get him! See if he calls you back, or some lacky. Do you see him in the showroom talking to customers? No, he's in his office. He should rename his yacht Arrogance.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I agree! I work at Herb Chambers Mercedes-Benz in Somerville and Herb NEVER talks to customers in the showroom. I've seen him yell at managers, who then come out of his office and fire four or five random people, saying costs are too high. He is the most arrogant person I've ever met! I'm looking for another job and can't wait to leave!

Pissed off customer · 9 months ago

Herb is a real asshole... A greedy Son of a Bitch too!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I was just hired by a Herb Chambers company and I am looking forward to being employed there. However, I find it hard to believe that the only experiences people seem to have are bad ones. I have worked in the automotive industry for the past five years and have enjoyed myself. Mostly. I have been yelled at, degraded, cursed at and brutalized by customers who have issues with their vehicles. Most issues are completely out of my control. Yet I get up and go to work every day. I am not a millionaire by doing this work. I do it because I want to help people. I don't want to take advantage of people!! I know that there will always be bad apples, but to blackball an entire company for a small percentage of assholes is really unfair. I think some consumers need to step back and realize that the people who are working at these places are not their personal punching bags. Do you know what it feels like to kiss the ass of someone who is treating you like crap? Probably not, but in this business, that is our job. Think about it.

Nancy · 1 year ago

We tried multiple times to get a response from Herb Chambers Ford in Westboro - and never heard from anyone - until we contacted the Better Business Bureau - and the BBB contacted them - Boy did we get a response then. As I said above - we did come to an agreement with them, and the new Service Manager of HC Ford in Westoboro seems to be on the ball - but we'll not go back. Fool me one, shame on you, fool me twice - shame on me!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I find it amazing how incredibly consistent all Herb Chambers employees seem to see everything! Like the person said earlier, it seems they do a great job of teaching arrogance! Customers are the life blood of any business, yet here they are referred to as assholes, liars, and ball busters. Then, they brush off anyone who has a legitimate issue as "the minority". I tried calling Herb Chambers and couldnt get past the secretary. I can't tell you how many people I know have had bad experiences there; the minority is everywhere.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

It all starts at the top ... Herb Chambers is an arrogant man, I know, I worked for him!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

As a FORMER employee of Herb Chamber Ford Braintree:

The place is a NEST OF VIPERS! Stay far away if you are smart.

anonymous · 1 year ago

I'll never buy from H/C again. I purchased a used GMC Yukon from H/C Chevy in Danvers. The salesman new nothing about cars, the sales manager was rude and treated us like we were idiots. There were issues with the car that they said they would fix that thay could not fix. The service dept couldn't fix a flat without replacing the battery, headlights and transmission just to make more money. H/C dealerships took the enjoyment out of buying a car. The only bigger idiot I know is me for buying from them.

john · 1 year ago

My 23 year old daughter (a registered nurse) was interested in buying a car from H C though she lives in Vermont. One guy was nice and appropriate and then not available. The next guy ( the closer?) was a jerk and inappropriate and arrogant. She's very happy with her new 2008 Honda not purchased from H.C. I will not be calling H C for my 2008 either though I bought my last car there.

Ann · 1 year ago

I will never buy a car from a HC dealership. I did purchase a 2004 Honda Civic and returned it within the 3 day period due to a transmission issue. We were told that we would get our deposit back in 2 weeks, it has now been 5 weeks and they are refusing to return the money. Time to get a lawyer, go to the BBB and call the consumer reporters!!

Nancy · 1 year ago

Ann,

The only way we got anything was to contact the BBB - once the dealership got a call from then, we were contacted and a settlement reached. I strongly encourage you to contact the BBB.

lost in millbuy · 1 year ago

my son bought a 2005 chevy cobalt in april and they talked him into buying an extended warranty, a 7 year -70,000 mile one. he just received the paper work fom chrysler financial and to his surprise he found that the extended warranty started the day the car was manufactured. so he is paying for the prevouse owners factory warranty and he is out 3 years and 30,000 miles. how can herb chambers get away with this? there was s disclaimer on some paper work my son signed but you need to be a lawyer to understand it.

Marcy · 1 year ago

I am currently having major issues with Herb Chambers in Auburn, MA. I was lied to from the beginning concerning finance paperwork, did not get the title for the vehicle or have it in my possession for over 30 days after purchasing, and when title finally arrived - it did not pass inspection. Every time that I asked to cancel this deal they told me that I couldn't because paperwork was signed --- which was misleading. Basically, my vehicle was stalled from coming into my possession because they knew I was moving to SC and thought they would get away with ripping me off and selling me a LEMON. This vehicle continues to have the same problems that were complained about from the beginning and I am left in SC with over $2000 worth of repairs to get the vehicle drivable. I am at the library at this moment making copies of paperwork to take legal action against Herb Chambers in Auburn. I do not suggest anyone ever buy a vehicle from this dealer due to mistreatment to customers, making false promises, and basically misleading consumers throughout the process, all along believing that they are not breaking lemon laws. --- The title had to be available to me within 7 days and if not I had the right to cancel --- To top it all off I am out a paid-off Hyundai Elantra 2006 vehicle that was worth over $13,000 that was in perfect condition. I have sent a certified letter requesting a full refund or legal action will be taken. If I do not hear back within 30 days I plan to contact a lawyer, Better Business Bureau, Hyundai and Toyota directly to ask why they would even associate their good name with Herb Chambers, and I wish I could speak directly with Herb Chambers and question why he himself would allow HORRIBLE SERVICE to be conducted and associated with his own reputation. THIS DEALERSHIP WILL PAY AND I SWEAR I WILL BE THE LAST ONE LAUGHING BECAUSE I PLAN TO FOLLOW THIS THROUGH TO THE END. I have never had such a bad car buying experience.

If Herb Chambers makes a full refund to me as requested (highly unlikely) I will update this website, but either way I would never purchase a vehicle from them again -- considering the hassle. ---- Marcy

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Marcy, it is illegal to sell a car (or even display one for sale) in MA without a title. If you want to talk to Herb Chambers, don't waste your time. When I had a problem with his dealership, I fought through five people and finally talked to him. He was shocked to talk to a customer! He didn't really do anything other than make promises that werent kept.

I would call the Boston Globe or the AGs office. Herb Chambers broke the law by selling you that car without a title, you should get your money back!!

J in Southborough · 1 year ago

Thanks for posting everyone - was going to look at a used SLK at HC Lexus, but have decided to forget it and look elsewhere. Thanks!

anonymous · 1 year ago

Hello...Ok here's my beef with Herb Chambers, We had good luck with Ford until we came to Herb Chambers in Braintree Ma. We wanted to get into another car before our lease was up..We had about 3 payments left to pay. We dealt with the most incompetent person ever..thats another story..We were told this and that and we had to make our last lease payments in order to get into another auto and all...Ford sucks anyways,We went to another dealership on the south shore and got into a jeep liberty...and we were happy. When returning the taurus...We were billed for a scratch that cost over 200.00,smaller then a fingernail's length...car was in great shape...I refused to pay...over 1,000 bucks later when they could have made it easier on us and put us into another lease..We are now in a legal matter with chambers(Ford) We had about 5 leases through Ford and this is how it all ends..so much for customer loyalty...What a joke! Not to mention they will keep you waiting for hours on end to close a deal...excuses excuses...Best of luck to all of you who were rooked by Chambers!

Mike M · 1 year ago

That is correect about selling you a vehicle with no title. If you look at previous post's on here i mentioned it a number of times. If you are looking at a vehicle at any Dealer in Mass. ask them to show you the Title. NOT A COPY!!! Also, if you read the paper today you will see that Chambers and a few others were fined for false advertising. Chambers and Quirk were fined the largest amount's. $75,000 yes, thats SEVENT FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS!!! For deceptive pricing and unavailable price's. Oh, and by the way, i wouldn't give Dan, the Gm at the Auburn store the time of day. He is an arrogant sob!!!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

That's crap that they only fined Herb Chambers $75,000. Herb Chambers knowingly violated the law. They generate over a billion (with a b) in sales and get fined $75,000!!! That's less than it costs Herb Chambers to fly his Gulfstream to St Baarts! Shame on the Attorney General!

Tim · 1 year ago

I have purchased 3 cars from Herb Chambers companies. I have had nothing but an outstanding experiances. I would rate Herb Chambers companies with a 5 star rating!

Mike M · 1 year ago

well Tim, you are one of the lucky one's!

Jennifer · 1 year ago

Wow! I've been scared away from HC's.
What comes to my mind while reading these entries is that people (when they are burnt out) can become callous and inconsiderate and rude - - and that some jobs are "thankless". For example - I've worked as an in-patient nurse for several years and the job can be very rewarding, but it can also be equally frustrating. I guess it stems from dealing w/people when they are in crisis, fearful, etc. For what it is worth, I get some of that from these entries, but anyway, customer service jobs can be tough jobs, no 2 ways around that. Also - I think some of what goes on is just theatrics. . . for example, when a sales rep yells at and berates a customer as they are leaving the store - WTH, how can that be anything but pure theatrics. . . we are only talking about cars here. . . it's not life and death. Anyway, I'm in the market for a certified used mercedes benz wagon, I live in Rhode Island, if anyone knows a good dealer to use. I'm willing to drive a couple of hours if needed.
Cheers!

Jen D. · 1 year ago

I work for an H C company. Love the job, hate the business. I can only hope that someone who deals with me has nothing but a good experience. My manager jumps through hoops to please our customers and rectify any issues they may have. I hope everyone who reads this blog isn't turned off. There are good, bad and downright ugly situations in the car business. I definitely agree that dealership employees can be arrogant, rude and lie through their teeth. But there are some great people who hope to make the buying and service experience an excellent one. Sometimes it's tough to keep everyone happy and rudeness is unacceptable. I wouldn't be here if I didn't like helping people, but customer service is tough. I myself have been treated badly by customers but I know for every "bad" one there are 10 good ones.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Jennifer, if you looked at these blogs I think you will see a couple from a Mercedes dealer in Natick. You might try him

Mike M · 1 year ago

well, i looked at them for you lol. Actually, his name is Scott and it looks like he is the manager. It is owned by HC. He swears to take care of customers so I guess you could give him a try. I also know of 2 others. Wagner Mercedes in Boylston Ma. and Vitti Mercedes. I do know Vitti has the best satisfaction Rating for Mercedes in the country!! [Viti, Inc. 975 Fish Road Tiverton, RI 02878; 1-401-624-6181] Hope it helps.

[comment edited to merge multiple comments. do not post long pastes from other sites. it's spammy, ugly and useless -ed.]

Anonymous · 1 year ago

The sad truth is if we all do buisness close to our homes build relationships with the people at the local buisnesses pay a fair profit so that the buisnesses can afford to serve us as we wish all of our experiences would be better

Scott · 1 year ago

Mike M, I am sadly not a Manager as of yet. I am still new to the business and am doing my part to try and be honest and fair with everyone I deal with. Part of that may be my military background and also the fact that my family had a Pharmacy in Brookline for 72 years, I was taught the old way to do business.
Here is one of my customers comments after she was not happy here with the salesperson.
"Good for you. It’s the right thing to do. I want you to know I really appreciated your time and your efforts with me. I found you very professional and someone I could trust.

Regards,


Gail "
For reason I did not include her whole name or email. She did not purchase here and I am working on that situation. I just want to try earn money and do it with honesty. I know that some people in this very building will not follow my lead but I can only control one person.
What I tell customers is that if you can come in we can be honest and have EXACT numbers to deal with not ball parks and if at the end of the day we are not at a deal we shake hands and move on.

anonymous · 1 year ago

I went into Herb Chambers today 01/11/2007. I had called them and told them I had a pre-approval at 13.5% not a great rate but I dont have great credit with Transunions new scoreing system. I told them If they think they could do better than let me know. They told me we can absolutely do better. So, I looked at a few Toyota Corollas and Yaris and Scion. Then I went in, I was told I would be at 21%. I looked at the sales manager sitting with the sales person and told him "I wouldnt buy a candy bar at 21%" They amaze me. They lie like I have never seen before. Did they expect me to take a loan from them at 21%? This is one of the few poor dealerships ive been in. I just wanted to share my experience. Also, when looking at vehicles there be careful they dont salt the ice around the cars. Mabye they cant afford rock salt. I would think if they can get enough people buying at 21% mabye they could have a heated driveway....

anonymous · 1 year ago

UPDATE-
To the above post, I recieved a call from the dealership today. Asking me if my experience was good. I told them it wasnt. And I explained why. I could hear salespeople laughing in the backround. I guess they think its funny 21%. ***Buyers Beware***

Scott · 1 year ago

Well Mr. Anon,
It seems that the dealership tried and since we do have banks we use and teir systems with credit, your credit did not fit the bill. I would not jump right off and say the dealership was still trying to get you. If you had the pre-approval then you could have still bought the car all you had to do was settle on a price. If your credit is bad and it seems that you know it is then please dont be shocked if a dealership comes back with a rate you dont agree with. Dealerships are bound by law as to how much they can mark up rates so really it was close to the 21%. If you want a fair deal it seems you had one with the pre-approval. Why did you not buy the car then since you had the money? I wish you the best of luck in getting into a new or preowned car that you want. If I can help let me know.

Mike M · 1 year ago

sorry ed

Mike M · 1 year ago

Well Scott, I hope she give's you a try

Katie · 1 year ago

I just had an atrocious experience with Herb Chambers as well. It was exactly as another commenter had said: we were told one price over the phone, used our credit card to put down a deposit, and when we got to the dealership they informed us that the price was actually much, much higher than we thought. The sales people's stories changed over the TWO HOURS we were there trying to buy a car: we were even accused of lying and trying to cheat them!!! I was absolutely astounded and felt so terrible.

DO NOT EVER BUY FROM HERB CHAMBERS.

scott · 1 year ago

Katie,
Not all people in the car business are like that. please call me at 781-492-4573 that is my cell I would like to see if I can help.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I worked for Herb Chambers flagship Mercedes for 5 years. When I started as a salesperson I was happy and making good money. Within two years Herb had cut our pay by 60% at the same time, he hired Managers who were shiftless and dishonest! I didn't want to screw anyone, so I quit...these things are commonplace within the herb Chambers Companies. If you need a vehicle I would recommend going to a dealership that is not part of a huge CHAIN!!! I hope Herb sleeps well knowing that he has single-handedly ruined the car business and screwed thousands and thousands of people. FU HC!!!!!

--Shaggy

THE QUEEN · 1 year ago

HERB CHAMBERS SUCKS AND I AM FILING A BIG LAW SUIT AGAINST THEM....THEY ARE CROOKS AND THIEVES...CON ARTISTS!!!!

scott · 1 year ago

I have been reading these again and I see that is an issue with price being given and not followed through on. As a consumer if you see a vehicle online I recommend you print the ad with the price on it so there can be no confusion when you show at the dealership. All of the vehicles are online at www.herbchambers.com. Next I would also print any internet only coupons that pop up!! If you call or inquire about a new vehicle my advice is to simply go into the dealership and get a quote on the actualy vehicle you want to own. If you do not purchase at that time ask for a copy of your worksheet.
This may help some of the problems we see with price differential.

Nancy · 1 year ago

Scott,

What do you recommend when the dealership ignores all your calls, inquiries and requests for problems with defective parts that they put on a "new to us" car.

IT was only when we contacted the Better Business Bureau that we were offered a settlement - and it didn't cover nearly 1/2 the cost of the new tires we had to purchase to replace the defective ones.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Scott. I have to disagree with you on that one. You know as well as I do the Internet is used more and more as a Shopping tool. If customers can"t get a legit price by shopping there, you will not earn there business. As far as asking for a copy of the worksheet, you will either be told, It's an in house work tool and you cannot have a copy or, you will get a copy that you come back on and are told, oh, that was if you bought a vehicle that day. So, who are you kidding.

Angry in Auburn · 1 year ago

We just had a HORRID experience with Herb Chambers Toyota in Auburn, and here is the letter I sent to Herb Chambers. I have never been so frustrated with a dealership.

Dear Mr. Chambers,

My name is XXXXX, and my husband M and I have been Herb Chambers Toyota customers for the last several years. In addition, because of our primary positive experience, we spread the word, resulting in my mother, my sister, my father-in-law, and several friends all becoming Herb Chambers customers.

Sadly, as a result of our most recent experience with your Toyota dealership in Auburn, Massachusetts, none of us will return to a Herb Chambers dealership again.

In 2005, my husband and I wanted to upgrade our Tracker to something larger and more stable. We decided to stop at your Auburn dealership to look at a used Rav4. Our sales person, XXX, was very nice and helped us out courteously and promptly. We asked him how much he needed as a down payment in order for us not to be upside down were we to trade the vehicle in sometime in the future. He said $3000 plus our taxes and fees would cover us, so we took his advice, and we purchased the vehicle.

We loved the Rav, but shortly after we purchased it, we decided to have a baby (thus giving us two children), and we thought the Rav felt a little cramped, especially with one infant car seat and one toddler car seat. But because XXX’s service had been so wonderful in 2005, in 2006 we decided to return to Herb Chambers in Auburn. In addition, since purchasing the Rav, both my mother, my sister, and my father-in-law had purchased vehicles from Herb Chambers at our recommendation.

When we went to the Toyota dealership in Auburn, we worked with XXXX, now a former sales manager, and a sales associate named XXX. They showed us a used Chevy TrailBlazer, and when we took it for a test drive, we loved it. We were concerned about the mileage, but XXX assured us that the posted mileage was on the low side, and the vehicle actually performed better than stated. We were also concerned about being too upside down to be able to trade it in at a later date, and XXX told us that if we waited a year before trading, we would be fine.

Well, Mr. Chambers, XXX either didn’t really know the car business or he flat out lied to us. This month, upon trying to trade in the Blazer for a Corolla, we found out that we were grossly misinformed both about the mileage and the trade in value.

A few weeks ago, my husband stopped in to see XXX to talk about purchasing yet another vehicle from your dealership. We wanted to purchase a Corolla because the Blazer was costing us too much in gas. XXX was busy and told M he would call him back. Unfortunately, XXXnever returned M’s call. So Mcalled again. And again. And again. And still, he received no return call from XXX.

Finally, M decided to stop down one day on his way to work. He waited for XXX for almost two hours to no avail. In addition, none of the sales associates seemed willing to help. So he left.

And he went to Harr.

Harr was more than willing to help us. In fact, they had the paperwork ready to be signed within two days. They recognized the upside down-ness of the vehicle and were going to give us $11,500 in trade, thus rendering us only $10,000 upside down. We were approved through Toyota Financial, and using Harr’s computer screen, they showed me their cost of the vehicle, the additional fees, the interest rate, the trade in amount, the final cost, and the monthly payment. The only thing left for us to do was to cancel our extended warranty on the Blazer in order to make up the $2000 gap. Depending on the value of the warranty, Harr told us that if the refund did not equal $2000, the dealership would absorb any additional monies in order to make the sale. Thus, we were all set to purchase our new Corolla S.

When M stopped at your Auburn dealership to cancel our warranty, suddenly everyone was willing to help him!!!! He was approached by a sales manager, who profusely apologized for how M had been ignored during his previous visits and said that this was an issue he had been working on with XXX. He told M over and over again that he wanted M to stay in the Herb Chambers family, and that he was sure something could be worked out. So Mark and the manager sat down to come up with a deal.

The deal included a better car, a lower interest rate, an equal trade in value, and a lower monthly payment. We were told to cancel the deal with Harr and that Herb Chambers Toyota of Auburn would rework our deal. The paperwork would be ready the next day; we could come in and sign, and take the car home. And, honestly, we were thrilled.

The next day, we cancelled the deal with Harr, and called your dealership to find out what time to come in and sign. We were then told that the car we were looking at had been sold, and that they needed to find something else.

So we waited.

A couple of days later, we called back, and we were told that they needed to rework the deal because, since we would again be financing with Toyota, the deal needed to be different from the one submitted to the bank by Harr.

So, again, we waited.

Then we called back again and were told that we were having a hard time getting approved, primarily because the collateral was not worth the value of the loan. So we suggested gap insurance.

And again, we waited.

We called back a couple of days later and were told that the finance manager was going to meet with Toyota financial to try to get an approval (an approval, mind you, that had already gone through at Harr). So we reminded him of the extended warranty refund.

And again we waited.

Finally, we called yet again and were told that we needed to come up with two thousand dollars down in order to close the deal. When we asked about the final cost of the vehicle, the trade in allowance, the warranty cancellation, and the interest rate, we were told that all of that would have to be looked up, and that if we couldn’t provide the $2000 down, none of it mattered anyway.

Then, we asked how Harr had been able to make the deal, but Herb Chambers couldn’t. Believe me, Mr. Chambers, I did not expect what I heard next.

After getting what we consider to be the runaround for almost a month, we were finally asked, “Well why didn’t you just stay with Harr in the first place?”

At first I was shocked to be treated in such a way, but I quickly realized, Mr. Chambers, that during this hellish month-long experience, that utterance was probably the best advice to come out of your dealership.

I know that losing my business, my mother’s business, my sister’s business, my father-in-law's business, and my friends’ business means nothing to your bottom line. You will go on selling cars, and my friends, family, and I will purchase all our future vehicles from someone else.

But we used to be highly satisfied Herb Chambers customers, and now we are not.

And I thought you should know.

John · 1 year ago

I just finised reading all these letters of complaints against Herb Chambers auto companies. I have to say after spending 25 years in the car business I have heard the same complaints made about every dealer in and out of the Boston Area. I also worked for a group of stores in the Northern Virginia area who owned 30 stores and see the same complaints there about there service and sales. The one thing that seems to be a constant complaint is the finance department. Why?? because as I have seen many times no one reads the contract before you signed it! why? because most people are just to much in a hurry to take the time if you did half of the people who wrote here would not even have written. for over 25 years I have never seen a customer read the contract! For that matter I have never heard a customer say he even took the time to go through the manual that came with the car. ALL customers have the right to leave the dealership and consult there own personal bank before they sign anything to deal with the buying of a car. So your lack of understanding what you are signing is your own fault not Herb Chambers. As far as buying a car with out a title?? why in the world would you even leave a deposit on a car that they dont have the title to ? Did you not even ask before you left the night of the sale ? Who's fault is that?? Just about every letter here deals with situations where you let the salesperson be in control of what you were doing and that is why you are in the mess you are in. So when it comes to calling the salesperson stupid or arrogant I would reread what you are writing. 95% of the complaints you have are things you the customer could have solved just by taking a few minutes alone before you went and finished the deal. I have been an employee of Herb's for over 8 years and I have not seen any of the things you guys have been writing about. I have over 800 truly satisfied customers who have bought from me year after year. remember if you don't take the time to read the fine print you have no one to blame but yourself. all auto sales contracts are the same no matter what dealer you go to Chambers or Joe blows they are all the same. our dealership here in Braintree is a J.D. powers award winning dealership in customer service both in sales and service. I just think alot of what has been said here is unhappy people who would have never been happy even if the deal was the best there was. on Febuary 1 2008 Herb Chambers will be going one price on all used cars throughout the entire chain giving you the very best price for thar car right up front with no hassles or haggle. making it easier for the customer to buy a used car with limited problems. all of this is being done to improve customer service. All the sales and service people working in the store I am in have to pass there csi in order to stay working here. So although there are problems in every store with the amount of cars we sell every year as a whole company combined these complaints make up less than 1% . A great average from where I sit. by the way sales people are not stupid and most of us graduated not only from High School but in my case I graduated from UNC and im proud of it!

Hilarious · 1 year ago

Really gotta love how HC employees continue to blame the customers, above. Perhaps you did graduate from UNC, which says very little about UNC given your writing abilities.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Not only that, I didn't have to go so far as reading the contract. They did not get that far with me before I left. The same kind of problem as Angry in Auburn had. The GM at that store is a pompas ASS. So John, as much as what you say is somewhat true as far as reading contracts etc. , I happen to be one of those cusomers that happens to be car smart.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Whoops, customer spelled wrong. I must have gone to UNC also.

pathetic situation · 1 year ago

can't say much, in the middle of a major situation, but will add more details later, suffice it to say...
if you get an add-on, rust-proofing/simonizing/scotchguard, make sure they actually do it and you get proof.

patethic situation · 1 year ago

UPDATE...
they have contact me and have agreed to resolve this by refunding my price of the add on.

they have made this right by me...I am satisfied by their action.

scott · 1 year ago

WOW this has been a week on this forum huh? To Nancy. I really don't know where to go with that one. I would prefer to handle this in house and try to resolve the issue at the dealership. I will bet you have already gone this route and now that is why the BBB is involved. If you are not satisfied with the results you have gotten through the BBB and your own efforts I think the next step would be small claims court. Recently I was there for another matter, bill being paid late by me. A few cases I heard in the Dedham court were consumers and dealerships, Boch Toyota was told to refund a customer her money because they did not follow through with promises. I say go that route.
Mike M I have a few questions for you just so I know who I am dealing with. What work do you do? What dealership did you work at?
As for a dealership not willing to give a work sheet I think that is odd, what are they hiding? I always gave my customers work sheets when I worked at a Ford Store. That way I was being honest and so was the dealership. If I was giving a huge discount and was killing my self just to make a number I would write on the work sheet this offer is good until XXXX that way there was no confusion. I guess I am a bit more honest than the average person in this business and also I have higher standards.

Roger · 1 year ago

If anyone needs a great family run Mercedes Benz, try Smith in Haverhill...Great service department and the sales guys are nice and trustworthy! (978) 372-2552

Angry in Auburn (Update!!!) · 1 year ago

Well, I sent my letter to Herb Chambers himself, and I thought I would hear nothing. Imagine my shock when my phone rang later that day, and it was the Auburn GM, apologising profusely for our horrible experience. I then spoke with one of the finance managers (who also apologised over and over), and he said that our paperwork and car would be ready to go the next day, and the extra cost was going to be absorbed by the dealership.

Honestly, I am thrilled. Writing that letter was more cathartic than anything, and I am still in shock that it was not only read, but acted upon.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Scott. How soon we forget. You have left message's on here for me previously. I am just telling you my past experience. I just dont believe an offer should expire on a worksheet unless of course rebates end or something like that. And like I said, if you do get the worksheet copy, the offer is never honored. It does not matter where I work. It's the same at every new car store out there. I have been in the car business for 18 years and have seen it all, and then some. I no longer work in a new car store because I was Fed up with the nonsense of daily meetings and Long wasted hours! The last new car store I worked at I was The GSM. I now Manage a Late Model pre-owned Lot and I get home for dinner everday!! oh, and I dont work weekends!!

Angry in Auburn (Another Updat · 1 year ago

I have another update!!!!

The General Manager just called me asking me if we were happy with the car. I told him that we were thrilled, and that we are already saving a great deal of money just on our decrease in fuel. He told me that Herb Chambers had personally called him and told him to put the deal through.

And that's what happened.

Both the General Manager (Dan) and the Finance Manager (Jason) were wonderful. They have made us life-long Herb Chambers customers.

So for those who say that Herb Chambers does not care about the customer...well, I have to disagree. He does care, and his actions spoke volumes.

Mike M · 1 year ago

I would say, you are one of the lucky ones!!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Last year Herb Chambers purchased FMW in Natick. Have heard that the Natick location at 253 N Main will be moving at some point to Sudbury. Does anyone know if the bodyshop/car lot on Willow/Cochituate Street will also be headed to Sudbury as well. Thanks for any info.

Mike M · 1 year ago

Foreign Motors Bodyshop was not included in the sale

Mike M · 1 year ago

I simply called them and asked, lol

terri · 1 year ago

Went to Herb Chambers last night to lease from them for the 3rd time in 5 years. Don't know if I had stupid written on my head or they are trying to make money any way they can to pay their fines. After sitting there for 2 hours the jackass manager came up with a price. (He based it on $4000 over STICKER! yes I said STICKER. What an insult. Stay away from this company. I don't know who they thought they were dealing with, but I can read and do first grade math. as I stood there waiting for my keys, which were being held hostage, the Jackass went from $488 a month to what if I can do the low 300's (which by the way was still way too high) in a matter of 30 seconds. I don't care if they gave me the car for free, that sleezeball will never get my business.

scott · 1 year ago

One Price on preowned. Well I was not on-board with this one because I am a bit old school. Now that this has been in place for well over a week I am surprised at the results.
1) Customers look on the internet and see ours is the best price for vehicle X out there. They call in. Then hang up when they are not allowed to argue price??
2) This policy was based on CUSTOMERS wanting to eliminate the negotion process, it makes preowned shopping kind of like grocery shopping, you see a deal and purchase at the price.
3) We are now getting calls from all over the US and its funny to have someone call from Colorado- California and then ask if the price is negotiable. I mean this price has made you call from X distance and now you want to negotiate. The price is the price it was good enough to make you call here.
Well it has been an interesting few weeks with this one price so lets see if it catches on or dies out?
I would love to hear some comments about this pricing policy.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

One price is great, Herb Chambers sucks!

Mike M · 1 year ago

The people that want the one price thing are the people that had to negotiate there deals in the past, not the ones currently looking for vehicles. People are always gonna want to negotiate.

Daniel Fleming · 1 year ago

OOOhhh, yeahhh' I was licking my chops for a blog like this. Has anyone ever run Herbie's name under the ripoffreport.com?
Here's my story.....I'll try and keep it short and fun.
I recently opened a new business, but prior to to my heating business I was a master auto tech working on highline vehicles at the best dealers. I can go on and on as for why I left the automotive grind, but lets just say it sucks. If I put as much time into healthcare as I did into automotive I'd probably be a famous Doctor.
Anyway....... I had a Cadillac STS which needed head gaskets. I was 100% sure thats what it needed. The Cadillac northstar engine is known for this.
This job is expensive (I knew already) and the engine must be dropped to perform this repair. I have been very busy with the new business and I no longer have a car lift to complete this job.
I decided to "treat myself" and send it on over to Herb Chambers Cadillac in Providence RI.
I told the service writter flat out exactly what I wanted done and it had already been dianosed 3 times on top my my diag. I also asked for a top notch tech to take on the job. Of course the service writer "Steve" said "all our tech are awesome" YEAH RIGHT!!!!! He didnt know he was talking to someone who worked in the scam business of automotive for most of his life.
Next, 2 days later I get a call from Steve saying it's NOT head gaskets, it need a coolant flush, a thermostat, and some "tightening" around the waterpump??? Funny seeing how I had JUST flushed the system the week prior and already changed the thermostat (so did the guy I bought the car from) I KNEW it wouldnt fix the problem and questioned the repair on 5-6 phone calls. Steve PROMISED it would.......... again, figuring I'd get a call the next day saying "well it needs the gaskets" - that call turned into "your all set sir" all fixed-
My exact words were "there's no way that car is fixed" He again PROMISED it was.
The main problem these engines have w/ head gaskets is an engine boil over (or over pressurizing out of the coolant bottle cap)
I picked up the car to have an eye popping 1023.00 bill. They also made me pay for a new, but dead key fob door control to open the door... They said sorry, we can't get this to work but you still have to pay becuase we opened the box!!???
More like the clown technician didnt clear out the old remote programs to accept the new one!!
I made it 8-9 miles until the car boiled over yet once again. What REALLY pissed me off is when I opened the hood to add water/coolant to drive it home I couldnt because the Herb Chambers tech over tightened the cap to hide with huge plyers which left marks) to hide his failed attempt.
I had it towed home- I called "Steve" right away and he never called back. I then called the service manager.... No call back, I then called the General manager the next day.....no call back- I then put a stop payment on my check. THEN THEY CALLLED BACK!! They could have givin a crap less about my car, but ONLY ABOUT THE MONEY!
The General Manager is a COMPLETE ASSHOLE. If we were together instead of being on the phone I would have been arrested.
They then took me to court with yet another weazel- their collection Attorney Stephen R White of Warwick.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention the trunk lid latch they replaced...... well they forgot to put the trunk lid seal back in place and I ended up with 3 inches of water in my Cadillac trunk.
I also forgot to mention that 5-6 days after my major arguement with the General Manager someone broke my rear window with a rock at my house....... (probably one of his car cleaners) He is to used to people brown nosing his ass and forgot about the real world and people who might disagree. I'd pay 10,000 cash to have a chance to catch those guys in action. Well, I can go on and on but thats my 'short story"
Oh, I did call Herb Chambers direct office and his right hand helper could have given a crap less about what I had to say.
Need more?

New Employee · 1 year ago

As a recent HC employee with knowledge limited to one location, I can relate to and understand how some prospects may feel they've had a less than satisfactory experience. I am no novice to the sales field but have no direct experience in the automotive business. Of course, we've all heard the horror stories. My feeling is that many of the problems spoken of stem from a few primary causes. One is the culture of HC. Working there is like being in a barrel of crabs. Each one tearing at the other trying to get to the top. Competition is one thing but cutting the throat of another for a bigger piece of the pie is another. There is little spirit of actual team work. Also there is the issue of compensation vs effort expended. Much is demanded and little is given in return. This can only create a feeling of deperate need and breed a devil may care mentality where the customer becomes a comodity through which the hope of reward is generated. Furthermore, the educational status of many salespeople is low to medium creating a lack of sophistication. Combine these and you get some poor bastard with mouths to feed willing to compromise their ethics and standards to simply make ends meet. The result is confusion and disconnectedness coupled with relentless pressure from the top to compensate for poor management. So it's not so much trying to rip people off; it's trying to reach a goal through a maze of inconsistant policies and thwarted personal aspirations. Although I have to admit, there have been times when I have been deliberately deceived which has caused me to unintentionally deceive others. I have my resume out there because I see no future with this organization free from the requirement to sacrifice my personal life for the attainment of their corporate mission. In some ways it's like being a member of a cult or a religious order where they demand not only your heart but your soul as well.

Daniel Fleming · 1 year ago

The bottom line about so many companies is that the fish stinks from the head down. There's no fooling an Ex- dealership tech.... Herb Chambers cadillac makes me want to vomit, so do the stories the poor other pople went though.
Does everyone realize dealership mechanics/technicians get paid on whats called "flat rate" or simply "commission". I actually wrote a book and made a 26 track audio cd on how NOT to get screwed by dealerships like this. It was marketed wrong and I loss the farm, but Herb Chambers didnt know who's Caddy they were working on when I was hosed.
I'll be a thorn in herbie's side for the next 20-30 years (I'm serious too)
Did I mention the General manager was an Asshole? (ha)
I think Herb Chambers should take an extra hour per day away from waxing his vintage Ferrari's which were paid for with 60% blood money, and help ensure people don't feel like we do.
If the dealership wants I could help them diagnose Cadillac Northstar engines?
I had a joke along with 3-4 other technicians at one dealership I worked for. We called it the 50/50 game. In other words, when we were done with the car (and flagged our commision time) we often times knew damn well it wasnt fixed due to the fact we had "better" (higher paying) jobs waiting....such as brake jobs, major tune-up's etc- the 50/50 game was the flip of a coin that the car would (or wouldnt) come back. Many things could happen. Another mechanic could get stuck with it if it came back, the customer might get pissed and never return, the car might actually "pass" as fixed, you could blame an additional part, you could lie more, the customer might trade in the car out of frustration, I can go on and on.......
the thing is, I think Herb Chambers has a huge revolving door of mechanics and play more of the 80/20 game.
The thing is, being an "good" auto tech now requires a LOT of smarts for the pay and hard labor required its just NOT worth it. I've Herb Chambers doesnt pay well, so what does that leave you as a customer? herb Chambers does however have a great nack on brain washing employee's.
and let me tell you (and sorry to say it guys) Mechanics are easily brainwashed, and a solid 70% are followers, not leaders. Its a sad scene.
As I told their attorney steve white of warwick on my first call after put a stop payment on my check- "Tell them to learn how to fix a car" if they did we wouldnt be having this conversation.... "click"

anonymous · 1 year ago

I wish I had seen this before I put my money on a car....I will withhold comment until I see what happens as they say....The net net is they have my money but I have no car as of right now.

anonymous · 1 year ago

So...Another horror story from the HC Hyundai in Auburn.

I bought a 2008 hyundai elantra with 1200 miles on it. They quoted me a price of 15,466 and told me that included all taxes and was the final price. I went in and signed the papers after spending 3 hours in the dealership.

The sales kid stood over my shoulder watching me waiting for me to leave and the store was closing. I hurried up and signed all the papers and headed out. When I got home I realized that the price had some how gone up from 15466 to 15700 on the paperwork. While in the office I had also noticed that the mileage they had marked down on the paperwork was wrong by 300 miles (they had 800 written) . I should have ran for my life then but my car was overheating and I was in a rush to get a car to get back and forth to school.



I went back three days later to get out of the deal because according to the people at the bank I work at you have 3 busines days to get out of a contract. They told me that it was illegal to get out of a contract in massachusetts, but they could not produce any paperwork to prove it.
They ended up playing mr nice guy and cutting me a check back for $500 teling me it was a secret deal that no one could no about. This made me feel better for the moment because I thought I was stuck with the deal no matter what.


I had no idea about how a credit application works, I told the salesperson that I wasn't sure of what to put down for income because I make a different amount every month. He said to write whatever I WOULD make IF I worked 40 hours every week. I didn't realize at the time that this was how I ended up getting a loan without a cosigner, By being pressured to lie!

They told me that my car would be ready on friday for SURE, I bought the car on a Wednesday evening. They told me to call and let them know what time to pick the car up. I did not call Friday, instead I just showed up. When I arrived they laughed and asked "What are You Doing here" I told them I was there to trade in my car and get my new one and they said "Ha ur car won't be ready for another 2 weeks to a month". they thought it was funny, but I didn't. I told them that I had been promised a car and I wasn't leaving until I got one.

All of a sudden they had a rental and were "apologizing for any inconvienience". I am not 21 so they really should not have rented me a car in the first place, but I took it beacuse I was told that I was stuck and couldnt get out of the deal.

After a few days of having the rental I called and spoke with the "Sales Manager" and he said a car that was paid off just 2 days before mine had come through, so mine should be in soon. 5 Days later I talked to hiim again and got the same Bull Excuses....the title is not in...we can't tell you how long it will be....Havent you ever tried to deal with the registry.

After another week My mother called and talked to the general manager and he told ehr to be glad we even got a rental and to stop being impatient.

Then my step father called the district manager who told us that the registry had just received the title and it would be another 7 to 10 days. they promised to make my first car payment and to have free oil changes. This was yesterday, tomorrow will be a month since I purchased the car! I am writing a letter tomorrow to the attorney general and to Herb himself.

So much for having the car in two days NEVER GO TO HERB CHAMBERS!

anonymous · 1 year ago

P.S. the price ended up being almost 18000 by the time all was said and done...guess I should have read these posts first!

Dan Again · 1 year ago

Hi me again with the Cadillac- After reading more posts Im glad to see my scam receptors still work. Im going to file my report on ripoffreport.com - with that website anyone who types in the name your story usually comes up first or second for weeks.
I plan on telling anyone and everyone who will listen about my story. People usually get what they deserve.... its true. I know many people are internet "tough guys" I however would stand toe to toe and eye to eye with Herb Chambers and his general manager and tell them exactly what I think.
If I can personally take away $500,000 in sales and service with my posts over the next 10 years I'll be happy.

anonymous · 1 year ago

This experience With Herb Chambers staff in Auburn, Ma can be summed up like this.....They were not honest...we were over charged $$$ over the quoted price on the final paper work.....it has been over a month and we still have not recieved the car purchsed and they claim the title is still not in...we have recieved the run around from ALL staff.....I have purchased other new vehicles in my life and have never gone through this type of experience with any other reputable car dealer. Every complaint on this web site cannot be wrong...I am sure your chances of being happy with your transaction will be an illusion just like the delivery time promised from the staff at this facility......BUYER BEWARE...when this is all over I plan on contacting the Att. General and making a formal comlaint!!!!!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Get your money back! It is 100% illegal to sell a car without a title in MA. No ifs and or buts, get your money back. Herb Chambers does this all the time. Its wrong.

Jay G · 1 year ago

Cadillac Dan, call 617-763-1000 and ask for Jim Xaros, he can help you out, he is the Vice President of Herb Chambers.

Em · 1 year ago

I bought my beloved Infiniti at Herb Chambers 11 years ago . I have come to know the great people at the dealership very well. I have always been treated with respect and honesty. Many times they have gone out of their way to make sure I was a satisfied customer. Because of the great service I have always received there I would never go to any other dealership. As an owner of a retail business I can truly appreciate the notion of customer satisfaction. There will never be a way to make every customer happy mostly because the customer feels like they always have the right or best answer even if its not their expertise. I would highly reccommend Herb Chambers to anyone who is looking for a car.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

"Angry In Auburn": You say you are happy that they resolved your problem but it seems like they only did it after your complaint got to Herb Chambers. I work in a large company and other people have the same story about this store. They don't help you with anything until they think you are going to call the attorney general or a lawyer. Then they will do anything to help you. Its good that you are happy with evrything now but they fixed the problem to help themselves not you.

anonymous · 1 year ago

So to clarify something from the above story about herb hyundai in auburn, The rental car is in my stepdad's name and he is the one who is driving it. So yes, it is nice that they gave me a rental, but I am not 21 so I can't drive it so meanwhile I am just running up miles on other peoples cars....still a crappy situation for me. If I had got the car in 2 days like I was told I wouldn't be mad at herb at all. They have very nice people working for them, I just do not understand there way of doing things.

anonymous · 1 year ago

To Em,

I am sure your treatment was in part by the amount of money you spent on your INFINITY however just like anything in life some get lucky perhaps you should purchase lottery tickets you may possibly have luck there also.....for the rest of us the above complaints in majority are not good and that my dear speaks for itself!!!

Cadillac Dan again · 1 year ago

Jay G.
Do you work there? Jim Xaros had no clue what to do or what I was talking about. All of you were were ripped off will love this new plan.
Late next week I plan to actually Picket outside Herb Chambers Cadillac with 4 other military friends. I'm also having a large professional sign made up to install on the back of my trucks simply stating: I WAS RIPPED OFF AT HERB CHAMBERS. One truck will be driven locally, the next will be driven in the Boston area near Chambers district/personal ofice.
I e-mailed their bill collection attorney with this info, also stating that with Herb Chambers money he can try and have me killed, but as an X-Marine hand combat instuctor, then a sniper for 2 years that won't be easy either.
But they can feel free to try.

Jay G · 1 year ago

Yes, I work there (hate Herb Chambers), but figured Jim Xaros would help you.

Dan one last time · 1 year ago

Jay, thanks for the advise. You were right, I don't want Jim to be swamped with calls but he listened to my case and story and the matter has been resolved to a point of fairness.
At least there are a few men of their words left. He said he'd call back and he did (twice) This still has to be signed off with Herb Chambers and the Attorney who was handling the case must write up a new agreement.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

So an update on the situation with HC Hyundai in Auburn...I worked with the Exec. GM and he ended up replacing the car that I purchased with a new one (minus a sunroof) at the same price! So, all I would say is that I will live and learn. Next time I will pay attention to all the details and I wont be buying another car that they dont have the title to! Afterall, the people who work for herb chambers did a nice jobto make everything all better! :-)

anonymous · 1 year ago

I bought a van at HC Danvers with the understanding there were DVD screens in the car and what a great re-sale valude they were as I really didn't want them. But, it was the only model and the convinced me it was a good value. I picked it up on the 22nd, during the snow storm and was asked if I wanted a demo on the "DVD" and I turned it down due to the mounting snow and wanted to get home. On Sunday I picked up my grandson to go for a ride and play the DVD and he said "you don't have DVD Gram" . I couldn't believe it. I called HC and got all kinds of apologies, at this point in time they are working on rectifying it. We will see what the outcome will be, I wish I had read this complaint page before hand.

anonymous · 1 year ago

I want to add to these comments and this is concerning Herb Chambers Honda and Saturn on commonwealth ave. Boston .

I wanted to buy the accord coupe 08 but I wanted the stick shift , I was assured over the phone that they had it .I go to the dealership and discover that they don't , then they promise me to get one ( since they are so big and so connected ) but they push me to make a deposit , so I do that ( 250 $) , they promised to call me 3 days later ....no one called , so the next day I call the dealership and they tell me that the sales assistant that I worked with is off , so I go there and what a surprise he is in the dealership sitting on is desk , ....you should see the look on his face .

So of course my suspicions of them beeing bunch of liars is now verified .
without going into details with him , I tell him that because of familial reasons I do not want to buy the car anymore and want my money back .
so now he has to talk to his supervisor who comes back to inquire in a very nasty way about why I want my money back since they are working on a swap with another dealer in Connecticut ect. ect. he was very unprofessional and after refunding the money says " you can go now ..." , what a jerk , what a bunch of liars ....I just want to keep my old car so I don't go through this experience again .

hope that this review is helpful .

Mike M · 1 year ago

Wow, Dan your a funny guy. As far as the other stories since my last post, i gotta catch my breath. And for someone to be on here and recommend Chambers, lmfao. No one comes here for that. And as far as the young lady getting a replacement car without a sunroof for the same price, whoops, you overpayed. Think about it.

New Employee · 1 year ago

Great job!!!! This site is climbing the google charts like it's on fire. It's fantastic to see it burried in the HC sites making it readily available to the buying public. This can only bring reform to the nearly diabolical tactics that are obviously eating away at HC reputation like a cancer. The antidote? Honest, integrity, genuine concern for the customer, and respect for the workers who make the top echelon at HC filthy rich. This site would not exist unless it was filling a void. Believe me. The effects can be felt in the form of educated consumers who are to savy to allow themselves to be minipulated. There is no substitute for total honesty in business and genuine respect for the customer. Hopefully someone at HC will have a "road to Damscus" moment and embrace truth so working there isn't such a hellish experience for descent people who only want to be absolutly truthful with the customers. A white lie is still a lie and there's no shortage at HC. Then maybe everyone who works there won't be so dissatisfied with their jobs.

Last Laugh · 1 year ago

Herb Chambers, Hyundai in Auburn....perhaps the mosr gruesome bunch to ever work at a dealership.

I am educated and each time they lied or did things like not comply with Truth in Lending laws and I called them on it, they changed their response, imagine that.

It took me three visits to finally get the sticker from the car, something that is supposed to be posted. Rates and prices quoted were not honored.

Why did I stay, well my wife totaled her Sante Fe and it was towed to this dealership, I had little choice. Unlike most people I like confrontation and these people (from the sales manager to the incredibly rude young ladies behind the counter) seemed to enjoy their rudeness.

I did get the last laugh however, I taped conversations and had my daughter video some other interactions with other customers. The day before the paperwork I saw the manager, showed him the evidence and threatened legal action and that I also would go to the press. Everything was documented and notarized.

They gave me $10,000 off the sticker.

As for you people that say you work for any Herb Chambers, I believe you are either brain dead, brain washed or simple brain deficient. I have never met a soul who has dealt with any Herb Chambers who would ever do business with them again.

Finially, I am the CFO of a rather large company in central Massachusetts. We lease about 10-12 cars per year. I went to a Herb Chambers and said I wanted to lease 10-12 vehicles and roll those leases over every two years, the sales manager told me not to waste his time...why, because I went in on a Saturday in gym shorts and a T shirt. The dealer two miles down the road was more than happy to give me what I needed.

Buyer beware, you go to any Herb Chambers and you better be prepared to get treated like you're a moron.

How they stay in business is beyond me.

Oh yeah, almost forgot. It took 23 visits to properly diagnose the check engine light problem that my wife's car had. Amazing, simply amazing.

Jim Xaros · 1 year ago

I am grateful to those of you who have written to complain of an experience with The Herb Chambers Companies and who have allowed us to take action to remedy the situation.

In recent posts you have seen that we do try to make things right when given the chance. To that end, I want to make myself available to any of you who have a concern or issue with our company. I cannot promise to fix everything but I do promise to return your phone calls, investigate your situation and do whatever we can to restore your confidence in us.

Please call my office at 617-666-8333. I am not always in but if you ask to leave a voice mail for me, I will get back to you.

Thank you, Jim Xaros, Vice-President / The Herb Chambers Companies.

kevin bugbee · 1 year ago

Jim Xoros is a gentleman and a man of his word...This company will
always do the right thing by it's very valued customer.Take that to Herb's
bank.

kevin bugbee · 1 year ago

Correction...no bank is needed....doing that right by the customer is all there is.

ben · 1 year ago

not the place for person-to-person communication. - ed.]

anonymous · 1 year ago

Jim Xaros is a goodguy i have had to pleasure of working with him and seeing his work ethic.. I only wish that he could fix u guys problems but he can't make everyone on here issues go away.. I may not like sales but i'll say one thing about herb.. His standing up to issues to resolve them is second to none.. I was given the authority when i was there as a sales person to solve virtually any client problem myself.. For the other things that go on well that's another issue.. peace...

Anonymous · 1 year ago

This company has no human value,I and my wife bought car from them they sold me every thing under the sun inculding maintence which is no good because company went out of bussniess now i have $3995 worth of paper with no value just got coned by HERB CHAMBERS

Daniel Fleming · 1 year ago

Re: Jim Xaros- After reading Jim's post I hope I didnt mislead anyone on my post. I made a huge case out of my "misunderstanding".....this was NOT a simple complaint, this was a multi court case problem with a thorn who would never go away (me)
The problem was not simply paid off, we came to a fair agreement to a 50/50 fault disagreement. Although I'd like to think that my faith in humanity has been restored, I'm not sure.
I'd just like to reiterate that Jim will not simply cut you a check, but he will listen. I know for a fact, I now know more about the actual Cadillac Northstar engine engineering problems than anyone at that dealership as far as rebuilds and I'm willing to agrue that fact.
Starting this Spring I will begin a new side business of rebuilding Cadillac Northstar engines and selling them on e-bay. I can promise they will have 10% more horsepower, and you'll never have the imfamous head gasket problems ever again. My repairs will far exceed any Cadillac Dealership repair, period.
In my opinion the Northstar engine was the most advamced engine the US ever made @ 300 + Hp , General Motors just forgot some major weak points.
I can't reveal my 2 years of reasearch and trail and error but I can promise a better than new engine that will shock the heck out of "sports cars"
My last project was a Cadillac STS which beat a Corvette, a new Nissan 350 ZX and more last September at New England Speedway. The best gifts were the looks out of the corner of my eye as a Cadillac ran them down at the track...... my best time was 13.28 not bad for a 4002 pound car with heated seats and A/C

Herb customer · 1 year ago

I just recently bought a new Sebring. I signed the paperwork and purchase was made at the Millbury dealer. A month later, I was looking for document and when I checked the paperwork again, I noticed that a charge for 595.00 was made for Lo Jack. Yes, I agree that I should have look a bit closer to the papers but the weird part is, the dealer never informed Lo Jack about my purchase. I called and the finacial dumb ass tried to play one on me. I asked him if he knew the meaning of the word "Attorney General" and withing 2 days, they posted the money into my bank account.

Another complain... A month later, I have problems with the front end and called to make an apt. they told me I needed to rent a car because they don't do loaners. They told me to bring the car at 7am. I arrived on time just to find out that their car rental doesn't open until 8:30am. So I ended up spending precious gas for nothing and make another apt.
No wonder Chrysler reputation is going down the drain......Live and learn

Herb customer · 1 year ago

This is a good one. I just tried calling the number This suppose Jim Xaros gave and ask to speak to him. They wouldn't transfer me. Instead I got someone else.......why give the number if we can't get through?

Herb customer · 1 year ago

Ok guys. here is the deal. I know I wrote few things about HC but after speaking to Nicole and then Jeff Albert, general manager in Millbury, I do have to say, They went to great lenght to have my problem solve. They both listened to my concerns and problem and worked with me. Thank you both, That's the kind of service I'm accostumed to receive. You guys are terrific and I do appreciate what you done today. This is why I continue to buy my vehicles there...

Ken · 1 year ago

I have bought 4 cars from Saturn of warwick. There has never been an issue. Any time we needed service they got is in right away. Today, the altenator went they took us right in no questions asked. The also gave me a nice loaner car. I have sent many of my friends to that dealership no complaints. People need to watch out for themselves. Read the paper work, and stick to what you want to pay.

Dan again · 1 year ago

Phone number listed....ha, I figured that number wouldnt be so easy- I got the same treatment when I tried herb Chambers himself. "UUmmmmm, he's bust right now" yeah right. I do hate the expession but the squeaky wheel does get the grease. I had a slight advantage (knowing about cars) P.S. take what a "service writer"tells you in stride. 75% know zero about your vehicles problem, they only try to sell what the technician says (who again, is on commission)
Don't bother asking the service writter for details, its as pointless as asking someone at Home Depot if this spray paint is good for painting plastic.... the "expert" starts reading the can for you says, hummmm, should work ok- Its like "gee thanks"! I forgot my glasses ol' chum.
I actually wrote a book on how "not" to get ripped off at dealerships. It was marketed wrong and didnt sell many, but if anyone has any questions here, its on the house.

Nancy · 1 year ago

The non-profit I work for just got a bid for a 12 passenger van from one of Herb Chamber's dealerships. Needless to say, I called the person who went to HC to get bid and told him to go to this web site.

He has since changed the dealership from whom it got his bid.

The place I work is responsible for approximately 70 vehicles (if not more) throughout Massachusetts. Fortunately, I am in a position to see the bids when they come in - and when I see HC - I tell them to look here and seriously re-consider.

While my personal problem with HC Ford in Westborough was resolved (I still think in their favor), I wouldn't trust another HC dealership - and discourage friends/acquaintances from doing it either

Nancy · 1 year ago

I don't know about anyone else, but if I get poor service from any company I deal with, they hear about it.

Ron Arpino · 1 year ago

I would like anyone that was working with Herb Chambers and expected one price or monthly payment and then was given something much higher when they went to pick up the car or to sign the paper work, to contact me.
I had been working with sales for a week and after many times back and forth was told they could work out the car of my choice for the monthly payment I wanted to be at. Strange part is that one of the times I was talking to the salesman I was in a conference room and using a speaker phone because I was not next to the phone and at least 7 other people in the room heard what I was promised.
When I went to pick up the car I was told the payment was going to be around $250.00 per month more then what was agreed to by sales. To add insult to injury, I was told by the finance guy that I make enough money to afford the higher payment.
I was baited for along time to believe that I was going to be paying the figure we agreed upon only to be switched to a much higher monthly figure the day I picked up the car.
I need everyone that has had this paticular type problem only, with Chambers to contact me to put together a case for the Atty Generals office, Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce and the media. I feel that if we can save others from being tricked like this, we will have done them a major favor.
Please check back here in a few days because I will post a site for you to go to in order to collect all the complaints.

anonymous · 1 year ago

I have been to two Herb Chambers store. One I have bought 2 vehicles from and they are great and the infinity dealership in Allston where they are horrendous.
My friend went into service and they said he needed a 400 part and the car was in perfect order and needed nothing. There is something very wrong with the infinity dealership. Probably the general manager is not to be trusted. It is sleazy.

somedude · 1 year ago

HC totally stonewalled me on a car! I was going to buy a CPO bmw with cash, but they were determined to keep the beemer at $5k over book value, and give me $3k under book for my car. What am I, stupid? I'm going to give him $8k for the fun of it? He tells me the model I wanted was so rare, "it's going to fly out of here". 5 weeks later, he's still calling me. HC can bite me.

John · 1 year ago

Herb chambers at 1186 commonwealth ave is the worst dealer i have ever come after. They lied me and sold a car that had lots of problems. The employees are rude and disrespectful from the receptionist to sales manager. I was surprised at the way the preowned sales manager conducts business. He is very disrespectful and rude to his customer. My advice, don't go there and fall for their empty promises. They say the vehicle is honda certified and give you a checklist without any real procedure. I found out my honda certified vehicle does not meet the certification once i came home and did reserach online.

John · 1 year ago

The 3 day moneyback they've is just a trap. It starts from the purchase date and they will stall you from getting your vechile for another two days. Watch out.

John · 1 year ago

Ron, lets do that. you are right. We can save hundreds of others from this herb chambers dealer.

Ron Arpino · 1 year ago

IMPORTANT-IMPORTANT_IMPORTANT_IMPORTANT_IMPORTANT_IMPORTANT

On April 1st I will place a note here with a website location that will be for you to leave your name number and complaint especially for those that were like me, given one price for a car only to be changed higher when it came to close the deal. No one will be able to read the other names that are on the list, you will be able to leave your information only. I plan on contacting all that submit their names so I can explain about filing the formal complaint with the Atty Generals office.
That of course will be only the first filing as I plan to file with every agency and city editor I can locate, that will either warn the public about Herb Chambers dealers or publish our story to protect others from the same fate.
Ron Arpino

Mike M · 1 year ago

so, now that the HC dealers have a one price type set-up, i guess they can't change the price. lol. I just hope people are not dumb enough to pay that price!

Ron Arpino · 1 year ago

I have to now tell all those that have read my comments that Herb Chambers did stand behind their deal. I have to say that after I was contacted by the executive office that my issues were straightened out and they did come back to almost what the original deal was to be for. There was a lot of confusion and bitter comments but I have to be the first one to say that Herb Chambers did in fact care and did correct the wrong. I do appreciate that they cared enough to straighten out the mess that caused me much aggravation.
Thank you Jim and Mr. Chambers for caring about your customers.
Ron Arpino

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I WORKED FOR HC GRP FOR 10 YEARS IF AG WANTS PROOF ABOUT TRUTH OF LENDING WHY NOT CHECK ANY ONE OF THE DEALER SHIP THEY MARK UP INTEREST RATES THEN GIVE THEN PRODUTS AND KEEP THE PAYMENT THE SAME ?

Mike M · 1 year ago

Hey Ron. I would not have done business with them after they pulled that stunt. Yes, I would have given them the chance to straighten out the mess they caused. But, After that I would have walked away. It's like, never having to say your sorry. Capich!!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I work for the Herb Chambers Companies, and have for the past 5 years. Like any company out there it has it's good days and bad days. It's not possible to please all of the people all the time. I am a manager, and to that end I want to see both happy customers and employees, it not only makes my job easier but also more meaningful.
I apologize to any customer out there who feels as though they have been wronged by some entity within our company, rest assured that is not my philosophy on doing business, and it most certainly is not that of Herb, or Jim Xaros either, they are both honorable gentlemen, true to thier word.
Resolution in any situation will never come by way of finger pointing and name calling. Civility is the key to resolution!
I would never go so far as to start ridiculing and name calling the very customers that put food on my table. However I will say that SOME customers are very often either misinformed or uninformed, and they come into the dealership with expectations that are very unrealistic, and they become disenchanted when they receive results that ARE REALISTIC. As a company we are in business to make a profit, no matter what type of business you need to turn a profit for success. That being said we sometimes can swallow certain things to make the consumer happy and other times you can't .......as the saying goes you win some you lose some!!!! My simple advice to customers....is that if something seems questionable or unethical, to you then don't agree to it!!!!!! Make sure you think through anything that you commit to and read all the fine print, if you dont understand call a friend, family member or lawyer who does. And have realistic expectations, and be flexible, it gives the best outcome for every one.
I wish everyone the best of luck in their future car buying experiences!!!!!
No matter where they may be!!!!!

And a note to Last Laugh: Please be careful, it is unlawful and illeagal in the Commonwealth of MA, to tape record a conversation with out the consent of both parties!!!!

Mike M · 1 year ago

why is it when an employee of the HC company post's here they often don't give there name. I give the manager that just posted that last comment some credit. He can actually spell too. I must say, i gotta agree with you.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

The reason that I choose not to post my name is the fact that I am actively employed by the company. The dealership that I work for highly discourages any visits to this site period, even if we are defending the position of the company.
I read these comments and don't take them lightly. However I understand from a business perspective that there are going to be issues, to that end I am not surprised that not everyone is happy all the time. But to be honest, issues by and large are the exception not the rule, and the overall vast majority of our customers walk away happy. The comments that you see here on this site are a very small portion of the 47,000 consumers who choose us every year.
Every organization has a few bad apples, and in management sometimes you are lucky enough to weed them out, and other times it just does not happen.
The majority of people who work for our company are good people just trying to earn a living, and when I read these comments about how "stupid "they are etc. it angers me. I think that there are some that have posted on this site that live in glass houses but choose to throw bricks.
Has anyone ever had a bad experience, with anything else thay have purchased. Do you blame the bad service you received on every person that works for that company? I don't.
People have a bad bad taste for the auto industry in general, Herb Chambers is no different than any other dealer out there. We may have more issues that are publicized, it comes with being as large as we are........if we were smaller than there would be far less to talk about.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I also find it interesting that there's no indication that they ever resolved or offered to resolve Mr. Citrano's issue which caused the two articles to be written in the first place. Perhaps they did so, but it would seem Citrano would have written about it or updated the aritcles if they had.

Nancy · 1 year ago

I was just advised of another incident with HC Ford in Westborough involving the sales department - price quote on a vehicle - when vehicle was to be purchased it had "already been sold" and it would be necessary to order a new vehicle - at a higher price of course - Am I surprised? No!

Joe · 1 year ago

Here's a new low for HC Boston - I recently decided to sell my car and listed it on craigslist. I get a call from some guy names 'Walter' (who, by the way, sounds like he lives in the Midwest someplace and rides a horse) and says he wants to buy my car. I tell him, OK, the price is not negotiable, as stated in the ad, and he says, 'fine'. So, he then says all I have to do is come down the HC Boston and they will take a look and write me a check! Hah, OK, fuckstick, that sounds like a GREAT idea! Wow, what a lucky break for me! Because you want to buy my car, I should drive down the HC Boston so you can offer me 60% less than I am asking! Wow, great, what a nice service to the community HC Boston is. I will never buy a car from them (never would before, anyway) now – even if they are the lowest price.

Mike Morris · 1 year ago

After working at Herb Chambers Toyota of Boston for only three months as a Client Care Specialist, I was left with no choice but to walk off the job in disgust. I've been in inside sales for years and wouldn't be doing it for as long as I have it there wasn't something about it I like. The problem with HC is they train you to parrot, word for word, from a script. They have a "word track" for everything. Jay Gubala, the internet marketing guru, puts each Business Development employee through a rigorous 8 day training that is laced with sexual allusion, metaphor, and imagery. It's absolutely disgusting to sit there watching these young women being subjected to indignity after indignity but having to take it because they need a job. As a man I resented it because I have daughters and sisters. I guess I should have said something but I needed the job too. As I began to execute I soon discovered that some of our training was total BS. We had to tell people the car they want is "available" to get them to come into the showroom. Many times, it wasn't. Most prospects that came in through the internet wanted a price. I could only give them a range and that was only after they asked me for the forth time. By then they were often so angry there was little likelihood of getting them into the showroom. If they insisted on a bottom line price; I was instructed to either make up a price to get them into the showroom (which I would not do) or refer them to a sales manager who would try to get them into the showroom by promising them a reasonable price. I had to answer to two managers. My own and the sales manager. My manager was a very nice guy but the sales manager was a crude, boorish, insulting individual who took advantage of every opportunity to belittle me and me feel inferior to him. Part of the reason he didn't like me was because I followed up on his sales people by calling back the prospect. Some of the people I spoke with were irate and disgusted with their experience. One guy told me the only reason he didn't punch out the sales manager was because he didn't want to go to jail. When I truthfully recorded their responses he accused me of trying to make his sales staff "look like a bunch of assholes". After that he did everything he could to make me look bad including making up lies about me. When I complained to management, they denied everything and tried to make me sign a document filled with distortions and untruths that would have portrayed me as a pathological liar. All this was happening while one of my co-workers, CK, who has been there for years, commonly assigned himself to sales with individuals he never spoke with and who had no recollection of speaking with him so he could get the commissions. I discovered his little trick by accident when he tried to steal one of my sales. When I complained about that the General Manager refused to do anything about it and did everything but call me a liar. I knew then that I had no future working for these people. Everyone at Herb Chambers isn't evil. I've been to meetings with Mr. Chambers and he seems like a very nice man. He honestly cares about his people and, of course, about his bottom line and he doesn't impress me as being a bad person. I just don't think he knows half of what goes on at his dealerships. I couldn't imagine he'd care that much about how a little person like me was treated by his management staff. I will tell all of you people out there though that it was horrible for me. I'm just a regular guy trying to get along as best I can in a sin sick world. They made each day more torturous than the one before it until I couldn't stand being there for another moment. I practically ran out of there. Thank God my old employer will gladly take me back and I won't have to suffer. Working for Herb Chambers Toyota of Boston was like being in jail only you got to sleep at home. I will close by asking all of you Christian people out there to please pray for me as I try to get back on my feet. I'm a good person who made a bad mistake going to work for the wrong place. I don't deserve what I was put through.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

wikipedia entry. I think we need to make sure the wikipedia page is linked to this article as it's highly relevant.

culo roto!!!!! · 1 year ago

the car bussiness is the only bussiness that a bunch of criminals can work in and pretend to be honest .but please remember, these poor bastards get fucked over more than the customers. you want a real laugh? look at a service writers pay check.they might get 1%of the money they bring in, what a joke

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Mike, what a crap experience, but no surprise! As for your impression of Herb Chambers as a person, let me assure you that the fish stinks from the head down! He knows exactly what's going on; I've been in meetings where all of this is discussed, most of the things you described are his ideas. By the way, Herb Chambers is also incredibly racist! He's just a very good actor!

Abe · 1 year ago

Herb chambers honda boston are just thieves. Don't buy from them. I and a couple of frens already had had enough from them. They got managers who are so unprofessional and low-level, worse than street pimps. If you trust them an ounce, you lose a ton.

Jim · 1 year ago

Their Honda certification at boston herb chambers is total BS. They don't even bother to go thru the 150 checkpoint but just write completed. When I bought a car, i found about 13 points not meeting the certification requirement. I'm in the process of reporting this to Honda. Just watch out.

Kathy · 1 year ago

thank god, I found this review on herb chambers right on time. I was planning to go to herb chambers boston. Now, I've second thoughts after hearing so many complaints. Thanks for the ratings folks.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Herb chambers racits I know so ask how many managers are from minority may be one or two but 0 GM'S

anonymous · 1 year ago

To the employee from Toyota boston it's very nice you spoke your mind!

anonymous · 1 year ago

I'm a Lynnfield resident with nothing good to say about Herb Chambers. I've never bought a vehicle from his company ( never will) but to put it bluntly he bascially gave our town the shaft. He owns Flagship Motors. Several years ago the town voted overwhelmingly to not allow him to expand his business. Since the town wouldn't let him put the 5 acre parking lot he wanted, the jerk worked with a real estate developer and is putting in a huge housing complex instead. He's already the richest man in Mass, but it's not enough. No concern for the neighbors impacted by the construction, much less the birds and animals whose habitat he destroyed. No concern for the traffic, already very congested, which will be even worse.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Not sure how old this page really is, but I dealt with Herb Chambers in Auburn and it was the absolutely WORST experience of my life. I bought my first car and was constantly lied to. I tried a number of times to get out of the deal and they would not let me. I have contacted everyone (BBB, the news people who deal with fraudulent salespeople tactics, the Attorney General and others). I was told I could get it at a price I knew I could afford and signed the papers while they were stating it was the price I knew I could afford and then I get the papers stating a lot more than was agreed upon. When I called to talk about it, since they break it down to what you need to put away by the week, he said "it's only $40 more per week....are you telling me that is going to break you?" I have been asked many times by people I work with where did I get my car. I simply say don't go to Herb Chambers.

Tim · 1 year ago

Herbs chambers Honda of Boston are the worst dealer in planet. They are running a big scam in our city. Keep yourself safe folks.

Eva Mills Weston · 1 year ago

Last sunday I visited herb chambers in natick to test drive 2 cars one was for myself and the second one for my husband. He said go and test drive them both, i knew what i wanted but just to make sure that i will test drive the one my husband wanted. i was told by a sales girl that she was busy because it's sunday and they are short of sales people, why don't i come back on monday and she will able to help me - she spoke to a manager as well, your guess is good as mine. so my husband and i went to norwood bmw and bought our two cars on tuesday. bmw norwood told us about your web site. Total sales $114673 for two cars - we paid cash.

R.C from lynnfield · 1 year ago

Herb chambers didnt get his way with the town of lynnfield 3 yrs ago,so by destroying the woods behind flagship motors ,is his way of getting back at the town for not going along with him.If he cared about anything but money he would have donated the land to conservation ,im sure this act would have helped his bussiness image a lot more,instead he is viewed as another greedy asshole bullying towns with his money,im sure the people of canterbury Rd. would agree.If someone else has had problems like this please let me know

Jeanne · 1 year ago

This is a complaint on Herb Chambers Honda Westboro.....Brought my car in for the routine 60,000 mile service. It resulted in all 4 tires either way over or way under correct pressure, one of the tires was on backwards (directional tires), and a leaking transmission (all over my garage floor). So back I went to have it resolved. We had already fixed the tire pressures ourselves. They installed the one tire correctly. But I was told the leaking transmission was because the axal seal had broken. they would need to order the part and have me return for a 3hour $350 job. I complained because I had just had the car serviced and it was not leaking then, so it must have been something they did. I was told it was just a coincidence, but they would perform the service for $100 as an offer of good faith. While I was waiting for the part, I called the service manager to complaint about the service. He assured me that there was NO WAY they could have caused the leak during service. He turned it on me saying that I was expecting "perfect" service. This isn't about ME buddy.
That weekend while driving on the highway smoke stated flying out from under the hood. We stopped to see that the entire engine was covered in transmission fluid. This left us stranded with 2 children, 60 miles away from home at 6pm with no hope of an open garage to go to.
Anyhow...... when the car was looked at it was discovered that that there was DOUBLE the amount of trans. fluid in the car.....and it was filthy dirty. Basically the Honda dealership somehow put the fluid in without draining the old fluid first. The increased pressure was causing the seals to fail. There was nothing wrong with the seal itself. If I had trusted them I would have gone back for a 3rd time to have a good part replaced, and it would have leaked again......I would be then need to return a 4th time, I don't know how long it would have taken them to discover the true problem, or if they would have even told me about it .....The only reason we were going to that garage is because we bought the car there and were keeping a consistent service record. It is a 50 mile round trip for me, a waste of time and gas.
This past year the car was hit by a deer(5,000 damage), then a careless teenager(4,000) and I'm still fighting with the insurance and body shop on separate issues.....I really didn't need some guy telling me I expect too much!
I plan to call Jim Xaros and let him know how I was treated after such incompetent service.

Jeanne · 1 year ago

CONTINUED from 4-17-08 complaint on HC Honda Westborough.

There is something to be said for the power of the internet! I truly didn’t know whom to contact after being belittled by the service manager. I had Googled Herb Chambers complaints, and that is how I found this site. Within hours of posting here I received a call from a representative of Herb Chambers Honda in Westborough. I was able to explain my experience with the service center. I was given a sincere apology, and promised a full refund. I will be refunded for the total bill even though only parts of the service were inadequate! I was also offered to come in and have the car cleaned up….the engine is still filthy with transmission fluid. I was told I would be taken care of personally, with one of the high tech. Mechanics. Although I appreciate the generosity of the service center I don’t want special treatment. For the future, servicing of my car will require some thought.
I am very pleased with the resolution offered to me. A special Thank You to goes out to Tom Van Fechtmann, who took the time to call and generously offer a sincere apology along with a full refund. He is also aware that I didn’t know whom to contact with my problem. He is looking into ways to have himself available to contact through their website.
To all of you out there who didn’t get a resolution to poor service, you need to contact someone who will care. If you are having trouble with a Toyota Dealership, I’m sure the people at Toyota Motor Corp. would care. No one wants to have their product associated with negativity, especially when it results in loss of $$$$.
Also after this experience……it is clear that word in a public format get attention. Publish an article in the local newspaper about your problems. The paper services your area, and likely the readers will know the business you are specking about. I’ll bet that generates some attention.
Good Luck
-Jeanne

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Imagine how many customers of Herb Chambers don't know how to get their problems resolved and get bamboozeled every day! It's interesting that they are following this blog, but seem unwilling to alter what is clearly a facade that comes from Herb Chambers himself. He is only motivated by what people think of him and reacts only when he gets caught. There is plenty of issues that don't get resolved, don't get printed, and as a result don't get changed.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Imagine how many clients have been satisfied. Imagine how many people are happy with their purchase and the service given.

Imagine if the CEO of McDonalds knew every time a customer got French fries that were cold or the wrong change was given back.

Imagine. Imagine a perfect world where all people were right 100% of the time. No need for managers, no need for thinking and no need for apologies.

Imagine that world.

Imagine about 15 people on the blog that actually attempted or did do business with this company only represents about 1 % of the people that have purchased cars from them in the last 3 months.

Imagine if this company did not respond to any of these legitimate complaints.

Imagine letting go and moving on.

Imagine being positive.

I suggest all of you who are associated with other automobile agencies get back to work and worry about your own income. May I also suggest that you hobbyist bloggers find another forum. This forum would make a great tool to solve people’s problems with this company but the opinions and the statements that don't seem to represent actual experience with this company are very annoying. I have purchased many vehicles from this company at several locations and they are above average to other companies that I have dealt with.

A final word to all of you that are abusing this blog - see Columbia Encyclopedia - libel and slander.

Be careful what you say. Make sure it is truthful, factual and can be proven in a court of law. It is easy these days to find out who you are on the internet. If the owner of this website finds himself facing charges for allowing false information he will surely try to transfer the libel and slander back to you. The fact that an entry on this blog may have resulted in the loss of a client subjects any false statements by bloggers and the webmaster to a suit of libel and slander. Make sure what you say can be proven.

<span style="color: #ff0000;">[edited to remove copyright violations - which were especially ironic given the poster's preaching about the law. -- ed.]</span>

Stoughton Starfire · 1 year ago

The original article:
"they smugly denied any responsibility and referred to the fact that I’d blogged it for 'lack of something better to do.'"

The most recent comment:
"May I also suggest that you hobbyist bloggers find another forum."

Am I the only one who finds it hilarious that the pro-Herbies continue to ridicule the very medium that's cost them so much money by exposing the truth?

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Don't give them any grief about the latest entry ... I'm sure Herb Chambers paid good money for their attorney to write that! I particularly love the McDonald's analogy. Are cold french fries the same as selling a car without a title in violation of MA law. Is it an imperfect world when a customer is purposely quoted a low price to get them in the door, and then told a higher price?

Brian · 1 year ago

Herb Chambers in Boston, the Honda dealer sucks big time. There is this little guy, the so-called preowned manager, he was so mannerless. He's running the dealership like a streetcorner hooker dealer. I don't understand how he gets to hold his job like that. It seems upper management supports all these behaviors there. They sold me a fked up car all painted for a full price of preowned vehicle. Now, all i get is problems. Next time, my dollar is not going to Mr Herb and his fellas.

Anon · 1 year ago

"But i DO know that sending a letter directly to him does WONDERS!!! " This was published a while back by someone. Does anyone know how exactly to send a letter directly to Herb? Email address? Anything?

Loyal Herb Chambers Employee · 1 year ago

you can send Herb a letter @:

The Herb Chambers Companies
Attn: Mr. Herbert G. Chambers
259 McGrath Highway
Somerville, Ma. 02145

joylene labelle · 1 year ago

I bought a 99 toyota tacoma in 2000 My floor on the passenger side was soaked all the time I took it to herb chambers in auburn mass. I was told it needed to be cocked. I took it to a glass place and they did that for me. It still was wet i took it back to herb chambers and they told me it was the windshield so I went and spent 125.00 for a new windshield. The floor was still wet so i went back to herb chambers they told me it was the blower motor that cost me over 700.00 I paid that and my floor was still wet so i went back again and he said it was in my rain guard. I dont know but i wrote to the better buisness bureau I got no where. Now comes febuary 2 2008 it needs springs I spent 662.00 for that. I was chased down by some guy in april and he tells me it was a buy back because of the frame. I go back to herb chambers and they tried to give me a ranger then a chevy s 10 I went there 4 times for nothing. I was told i could have a 2004. I realy been through hell there. I went to the head guy in service on the wet floor and the mechanic there tells me it was multible leaks. Now i need a new truck and the sales guy tells me hes looking for a 2001 for the 12 grand I went on line and found one in hadley 2001 for 7 thousand. I found a 2006 for 11 thousand. I refuse to go back to them in auburn. Im gona take the money now and go elsewhere.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Send letter to herb chambers, he will never call you back

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Tacoma's are great trucks... the 99's although have a recall on them, where Toyota is buying them out, you may want to look into that, it could get you somewhere?

john t · 1 year ago

This shoul go to the topof the page.
A few short words about herb chambers.I just responded to an add in the boston globe in bold lettering on the top of the add herb chambers will give you 120% of kelley blue book fair market trade.
GUESS WHAT I WAS TOLD ???????????
After being insulted by one of the managers i was told that the loop hole was fair market value not kelley blue book value I then agreed to the fair market value then was told that my vehicle was worth much less Aprox 4500.00 les
that sounds like fals advertising to me the then told me my vehicle was not in market value conditio. My vehicle is in great condition with only 18000 miles top of the line .then i left angry with the sales person telling me that kelley is not buying car they are.
SOUND TO ME LIKE THEIR NOT BUYING CAR THEY ARE STEALING THEM

Anon · 1 year ago

John - same thing happened to me at the Herb Chambers Honda in Westboro. Except they blatantly lied to me, telling me that the promotion was for "UP TO" 120% of "fair market" and that unfortunately it had ended the week before. When I went home and looked up the ad on their website - it clearly says "We guarantee 120% of Kelly Blue Book for your trade." (The words "up to" dont even appear in the fine print...) And the expiration date was 5 days AFTER I was in their showroom... False advertising, lying, and insulting your customers - great business practices according to Herb.

Mike M · 1 year ago

If you have a Tacoma between the years 96-2000, have it inspected. Toyota is paying 150% of retail back to the customer. First, make an appointment at a Toyota Dealer. They will inspect for frame rust. 3 Hits on the frame with a hammer, and If it fails, Toyota sends you the check. A friend of mine brought his 99 in and was gonna get 4200 to trade it. I told him about this and instead Toyota sent him a check for $8200.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

This forum is a fabulous idea. I think most people (if they even realize their being ripped off or lied to) won't say anything about it. This is a perfect place share our stories and learn about Herb Chambers bullshit pushy lies.
Long story short. When I went to sign, conveniently, they mixed up some numbers on my trade in. $1800 short, oops sorry sir I thought you said 100000 miles. "Guaranteed to beat kelly bluebook", bullshit. Went to finance dept. and was pressured to buy extras for 1.5hrs. After saying NO for 1.5hrs I was told my payments would go up if I did not buy a $1000 of extras I didn't want. (I won't get into what a hack job they did on installing my extras). The bank was going on the hook, just for me, only that night. The bank was offering me free money how could I go wrong said the dealer. I called "the bank" and they dont offer those deals. Hmmm. LEAVE AS SOON AS THAT STARTS. I was too weak be strong. I heard that Kevin Trudeau is the finance and management trainer at HC.

Dont buy from HERB CHAMBERS HONDA WESTBORO MA

Stoughton Starfire · 1 year ago

It's not a forum, it's an article on a blog, but .. yeah.

Mike M · 1 year ago

A good trick by dealers. They tell you they can give you a better rate if you buy an extended warranty or those extra's. Again, they are just trying to make money on you. It's simple. Ask what the rate is if you buy the warranty. After they tell you what it is, don't buy the warranty but demand that rate or walk out. Its illegal for them to do it. If they wont, tell them you will get your own financing. Credt unions always have better rates. If you don't, shame on you. Not only did they make money on the one price car, now they made it on the financing too!!

R.C from lynnfield · 1 year ago

all i can say about herb chambers is i hope the failing economy does him in for good,im sure no one would miss him,i cant even stand to see his arrogant face on car ads

Samantha · 1 year ago

I bet Herb already lost millions just from this website. Consumers truly rule in this internet era. Don't treat your customers bad, you'll vanish. Come on Herbie, time to offer more than coffee and TV shows. Wake up!!!

Kim · 1 year ago

Does anyone have Mr Chambers direct email address. Maybe he is not quite aware what his fellas been doing. It'd be easier to report any problems directly to him.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Try reaching Herb Chambers at herb@herbchambers.com or hchambers@herbchambers.com ... by phone, 617-666-8333 or 617-242-0000 or 860-434-8631

Ryan · 1 year ago

I am very worried. I recently decided to purchase a 2004 Honda Element from Herb Chambers Honda in Westboro.

I saw an advertisement for an Element online. When I went in for a test drive, I was told that the car online wasn't actually in the Westboro , it was located in Seekonk. After a bit of selling on their part, they offered to have someone pick up the car from Seekonk and drive it down the next day so I could check it out and test drive it. They told me that they could only do that if I put a deposit down, which I did.

The next day when I arrived at HC, the sales person told me that the Element I was looking at was sold the night before and HC Seekonk did not notify them when I put my depsoit down. This sounded like BS to me, especially when they tried to get me to upgrade to a 2006 Jeep Liberty at a higher price. I almost bit because I really would like a new car, but at the last second I told them I wasn't in love with the car so the deal was off. After some negotiating, I decided that I would buy a Honda Elelment that Westboro had (and I test drove) which was slightly higher in price, but a better model and less mileage. I did NOT sign any financing contract without proof of the title.

They now claim they do not have the title but that it is coming in. I have not been waiting that long but after coming across this blog I am very nervous I screwed myself. They quoted me a monthly payment but now have a feeling they won't honor that when I can actually get the Element. I am alos worried abotu not being able to get my deposit back if I choose to opt out of the purchase.

Does anybody have advice for this situation? Or does it seem like HC is playing it straight so far?

Anon · 1 year ago

My advice? Run far - run fast. Chances are you may lose the deposit if you walked away now, depending on exactly what you have signed up to this point. If you can find any loophole, or the first time they refuse to hold up their end of the agreement (and they likely will) - get your deposit back and run. If by some miracle things work out to meet your expectations - read EVERY piece of paperwork they give you to sign (ignore their annoyed sighs and eye rolling while you do) and make sure it is correct. They've tried to get both me AND my sister in-law on 2 separate occasions to sign wrong paperwork at the last minute... (and it sounds like a few others as well according to this page...)

Ryan · 1 year ago

** UPDATE ** I just wanted to leave an update to the message I posted previously today. A gentleman who identified himself as the GM from the HC Honda in Westboro called me tonight regarding my post. He seemed genuinely concerned with my situation and apologized for the concerns that I had. He impressed upon me the fact that he and his company are really trying to change the stigma associated with car dealerships and salespeople in general. He gave me an update on my Element and where I stood in terms of financing.

I applaud him because that is not a step that a lot of managers (especially in the car industry) would have taken. He was the polar opposite of some of the 'employees' who have posted on this site. All of my worries were addressed and I am now very excited to work with Herb Chambers and get the car I want.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Except that he was violating MA law by selling you a car without a title!

Ryan · 1 year ago

The car has not been purchased. I made sure to not actually sign a contract until the title came in. No body from Herb Chambers even asked me to sign anything. In fact they actually, asked me to wait until the title came in.

Mike M · 1 year ago

So, where is the title? Is it a payoff and they are waiting to get it from the bank. If so, ask for a copy of the certified check they sent so you can see if it was paid off yet!! Ask if it's an electronic title. They usually take a couple extra day's to get. Typically a title only takes 7-10 days. Goodluck!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

MA law clearly states that they are not even allowed to offer the vehicle for sale without a title. Herb Chambers knows that and that is why Herb Chambers is now worried that YOU know that!

Mike M · 1 year ago

Dealers sell vehicles without titles all the time. They will write the deal and maybe put you in a rental (especially if you are trading a car) because they don't want you to go somewhere else. Although it is illegal to sell you a vehicle without them having a title, look at the law again. I believe they can sell you the vehicle but cannot allow delivery to be takin, ie, put you out on a bill of sale etc. As long as you know they dont have a title. There is nothing wrong with taking a deposit on that vehicle in this case. I would make sure when it comes in (if you are gonna wait it out) to cross your t's and dot your i's when doing the paperwork. The other option you have is to ask them if you can see their used vehicle record book (police log) to make sure they actually own the vehicle. Any vehicle in the lot, available for sale has to be logged in!!

Mr. Morris · 1 year ago

Regarding the pricing of trade in vehicles. I'm taking quite a chance because this site has become so controvercial and as a former employee I have a suspicion that HC is looking for someone like me to take to court. I voluntarily quit working there but only after being retaliated against for a complaint and then being subjected to what I view (my opinion) as a hostile environment. Thank God my old employer took me back mitigating my losses. We were always trained to encourage people to believe they would get a fair trade in price based on the Kelly Blue Book. I've been out of there for a month and I can't tell you how many people I gave that assurance to who came in and left bitterly disappointed by the price they got. Most didn't even get close to the Kelly price. As a BDC staff responsible for getting people in the showroom some of my sales reps became upset and hostile because I promised my clients a good price on their trade in according to Kelly. One guy told me he feld he'd been "kicked in the *alls". Another said he almost had to become physical in order to get his keys returned after demanding them back at least six times. A very distinguished doctor came in with his vehicle for a trade and left totally insulted after I assured him he could use the KBB as a guide. I was surprised wthen I saw the add alleging 120%. If they finally did change, (honor their word) that's a good thing. Anything beats getting people into the showroom by giving false information. Keep up the good work Herb. Honesty feels nice doesn't it?

Anonymous · 1 year ago

By the way, I stated that I don't work for HC because it seems that anyone who defends it is accused of working there.

<span style="color: #ff0000;">[Funny, you claim you don't work there, post positive stuff about your HC "experience", yet the IP addresses you've used to post your comments are from Herb Chambers' dealership and match those of others who've posted as employees. So, your comments are deleted, except this one, to prove HC is conspiring to manipulate the readers here. -- ed.]</span>

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I worked for a HC dealer and have left a couple months ago. I just found this the other day and was appalled by some of the comments from customers and more so by the employees of HC. To all the customers who feel they have been cheated, insulted or just screwed, I apologize. We must all realize that as a large company, as HC is, there are always going to be problems. Even though that is an unfortunate occurrence in this world it does happen and not only in the car business. There are always going to be unhappy customers in any industry for there is truly no way of making everyone happy. I can assure you that those salesmen/ women or sales managers or whomever you may have had a problem with are probably not even there anymore. The car business has one of the highest turnover rates for employees. I feel I am able to state this just for the simple fact that all employees' salary and job security partially resides on customer satisfaction. If one continually receives bad "CSI," as it's called, they will not only lose money, but eventually their job. As a previous employee I have seen some questionable tactics, but as a whole they are very honest and do truly try to EARN business. As a previous employee it was very hard sometimes to overcome the stigma of the business and everyone assuming that you are lying to them. Trust me it's not easy. If you have had a bad experience, again I apologize, but I would encourage all of you that one should not judge a whole company based on one bad experience, for they are bound to happen. Also, one must realize that in any business the goal is to make money and the car business is obviously no exception. If your salary was based on commission, would you not try to earn more for yourself? A lot of the men & women working for HC have families just like some of you, so would you not try to earn more money for them? I however do not, and do not possess the drive or love of money that it takes to stay in the business, which was the reason for my departure, in case any of you were wondering. Again to all of those who have been offended by any member of the HC company I apologize, but please understand that not all employees of HC are liars, dogs, etc. Generally they are very nice people & I have made some very good friends there during the duration of my employment.

Mike M · 1 year ago

wow, i guess it is just proof that HC does have employee's that are defensive against the company. They post stuff here and say they are not employed, lol

Trish Hayes · 1 year ago

I used to work for Herb Chambers as his personal chef and believe me the guy is one of the most outstanding people I have ever had the experience of working for; a decent human being and believe me, I have worked for many eccentric wealthy people. It's unfortunate that some of his dealerships may not be following protocol, but this is the case for many large companies. They will sort out these issues - I have no doubt. Sometimes certain things take on a life of their own due to personality/power issues with employees. I think you may agree. Sorry for your dissatisfaction, but I could not let you trash the guy - he's not "that" guy.

Stoughton Starfire · 1 year ago

Editor - do you honestly think anyone at Herb Chambers knows what an IP address is? But hell, thanks for the laugh (and for exposing their chicanery.)

JK · 1 year ago

I went to HC Toyota in Auburn to look at a Scion hD. The offer they made for my trade-in was horrifically low. Not just lowball, not just a little low, but way way below the lowest trade in value shown by KBB, NADA, or Edmunds. I know that those values may be inflated, or that dealers will not offer what's listed, but the initial offer was $1500 on a vehicle that will retal for $5500 or more. They need to make a profit, and they're not going to pay top dollar on trades, but, well, what a waste of time.

There was also the line "most of my customers put down at least 25% of the purchase value". BS, says I.

I can only imagine wht the next scam would have been.

Mr. Morris · 1 year ago

The fact that Herb deals fast and loose with your trade in vehicle is well established. In my experience as a BDC rep with Toyota of Boston I've seen people whom I've encouraged to come into the showroom become flaberghasted when they get the price of their trade in AFTER I assured them it would conform to the KBB price. They will severly lowball the prospect at first but I've seen that they will go up on the price after about three rounds of offers. They will try to wear you down because they invest so much into the trade in to make it a HC certified pre-owned vehicle. Of course this will increase their profits once this vehicle is sold in fact often grossing more that a new car sale. What Herb needs to do is either honor his word that he will pay 120% of the KBB price for your vehicle or stop training the BDC rep in the art of making untruthful claims. The car business doesn't have to be based on lies and half truths. What would be really revolutionary would be to be honest with the client. What's wrong with that?

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I was a personal dog walker for Mr Chambers. He is a good man. Always buys the best for his dog. Lets not call his biz n him bad. LMFAO :)

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I just purchased a pre-owned vehicle at HC Ford of Westborough. The service was terrific. There is a manager named Frank there who gives unbelievable service. I have no doubt that any customer service issues will be resolved under his watch.

Brian B · 1 year ago

My wife and I purchased a used Hyundai from the Auburn store. We went down on a Saturday and signed all the papers and drove the car home that day. We told the saleman we were leaving for vacation Sunday morning and would not be back until the following Monday. They were going to register the vehicle for us during this week.
When we returned from vacation, we went down on Monday morning to get the regisration and inspection sticker. When we asked for the registration nobody could find it. They told us they did not have the title. I went to the sales manager and told him it was against the law to sell a vehicle without a title.
They offered to give us a new bill of sale so we could continue to drive the car. I called my lawyer and he said I should get out of the deal right then. When I asked for my trade in back they already got rid of it. I told them I wanted what they gave me for a trade back in cash. They wrote me check right then.
It helps to have an attorney on the phone when dealing with these people.

Another time a female friend of mine was looking to buy a Rav 4. We went to the Toyota dealer in Auburn because she saw one there she liked. I went told the salesman we would give him her car and $9000.00 for the Rav 4. He went inside to talk to his manager. When he came back outside, he said if we bought today he could do that deal. We shook hands and went inside to sign papers.
When the papers came out the new deal was her car and $12,000.00. I told the manager the salesman said $9000.00 and her car and we shook hands. He said they could not do that deal. I told him the salesman said he talked to you and that is the deal you agreed to if we bought today. They could not do the deal. I always thought a handshake between to people was as good as a contract. Not if you are dealing at Herb's.

I am looking for a new car now and I will not be going to a Herb Chambers dealership.

jimmy · 1 year ago

dear Herbert Sir,

It's time to wake up and smell the coffee before your beloved uncustomer service oriented employees flush the company down the drain. Am I hearing bankruptcy paper shuffling there?

give respect and get respect · 1 year ago

People-all dealerships have horror stories......it is normal.

<span style="color: #ff0000;">[deleted due to copyright violations -- ed.]</span>

mich · 1 year ago

Herb Chambers lost a sale from me also...their Honda dealership in Burlington is full of creeps trying to rip you off, especially the sales manager. I will never step foot in that place again.

HC employee who went to colleg · 1 year ago

Oh my gosh, I work for a HC company. And I continually see people referring to HC employees as stupid, uneducated, etc. Not ALL of us are knuckle dragging cro-magnons. I happen to enjoy my job and it is challenging and rewarding (especially when MY clients are happy.)
I almost feel like some posts make it like working in the industry is shameful. I get up every day and work hard. Where is the shame in that? I do my absolute best to be fair and honest. I do not enjoy being the bearer of bad news. Unfortunately, that's part of the job (service) I also make it an absolute priority to be informed about the problem/fix from start to finish. I don't go in for throwing all kinds of technical jargon at my clients. How many people actually know what the heck a camshaft solenoid is??? That's why I educate myself and thoroughly check the vehicle repair history before I start dumping estimates all over people.
I hope for better experiences for all of you. I am lucky enough to have a manager who is both generous and fair. And I hope you all know that there are HC employees out there who do want to fix your problems and make sure you're happy.
Yes, I will probably get sarcastic comments on this post but I actually do value my integrity and respect the fact that our clients feed and clothe my family.
By the way, my keyboard is wonky so any misspellings will be blamed on that, not my employer!!! :)

Joe Daoie · 1 year ago

If Herb doesn't care about his employees then how can you expect him to care about his customers? herb is open from 9-9 on mermorial day?? How about letting your employees reflect on the sacrifices made everyday by our troops?? Herb only cares about HERB!

HC employee who went to colleg · 1 year ago

Yeah, I agree the whole being open on Memorial Day was bogus, then that makes Target, Wal-Mart, Stop N Shop, Market Basket, Macys....a whole host of RETAIL stores uncaring about their employees/troops. Unfortunately the car business is a retail business as well and just about every retailer uses a national holiday to advertise "great" sales for the occasion. So yeah. I do reflect on our troops and their sacrifices....but I and about 50 million other people who have the pleasure of working retail still have to get up and go to work. And if the last comment is about me, wrong. I am at home! I wouldn't dare log onto this site at work!!

gethappyttoday · 1 year ago

Can't We all Just Get along?... It's never to late to realize that we all have a choice. Some folks chose to sell automobiles... some don't... some chose to walk to work... I like meat... my daughter is a vegitarian... I shop on all holidays and sundays (i'm such a bad guy) My Dad (god rest) would never violate the Lord's Day. Soooooo... give the disgruntled way of life a heave ho and move to the light... try it... you'll feel better strolling through this VERY short time on earth as a happier enlightened human. Cmon.... you can do it.

NOTE: There was no cannabis harmed during the posting of this message.

Spielberg · 1 year ago

Hi all!!

OK, first off, this has been a great, informative blog for me, so thanks!!

Also, this post isn't gonna be a rapid generalization to all HC employees, and I honestly don't think that any of all the posts have been that either. I find it a bit amusing that the HC employees, and those "not" HC employees are getting so incredibly defensive, rather than stating how what they think, they get argumentative as if this so called attack is directly against them. It is not, but it certainly is telling!

OK, so I've had it with Herb Chambers and can't believe the service I have received from them in the past few days. Luckily my guy and I weren't emotionally invested in purchasing, so it was pretty easy for us to walk away from the deal, more than willing to pay more money to another dealer if need be just to not have to ever deal with HC again. Thankfully we didn't put any money down!
Anyway, my guy and I were planning on getting rid of his gas guzzling jeep and my 7 year old Volvo and buying 2 Mini's and 2 new Vespa's. So, I stroll on down to Vespa of Boston, walk in to the tiny showroom where 3 employees are standing around doing nothing, and I'm completely ignored. Being that they are the only Vespa dealership in the greater Boston area that I knew about, I had no choice but to go there. So, finally some guy, after 10 minutes!! comes up and asks me what I need. I tell him what I'm looking for, and inquire about buying used. He tells me they don't have any used at that moment, and when I ask if he thinks they might come across some any time soon he says he'll take my name down and call me if he gets any in. I give him my info, he tosses the piece of paper in a basket with about 50 other names and just walks away!!! I had to call after him to ask him the other things I needed to know. I then asked him if I could at least sit on the model that I was interested in. He pointed at one across the room then walked away!! If he had just gone over with me, spoken to me about the benefits of buying new, I more than likely would have left that dealership with 2 new Vespas. But, I will say that after I was looking at the model for a good 5 minutes a very nice young sales girl came up to me and did help me out greatly. She was very knowledgeable, not pushy at all, and very sweet. I started to feel better about the experience, explained that my guy and I would be back that night to possibly speak to her about purchasing the two Vespa's new, rather than waiting to see if 2 used ones came up. I got her name and made it clear that I would only want to deal with her.

So, I stroll to Comm. Ave Herb Chambers Mini. I walk into the massive dealership and am a little lost, being it's multiple floors. I stand there for about a minute trying to figure out where it is I want to go to look at the Coopers. I'm not kidding when I say that there are at least 10 people on the sales floor, not one of them with a customer, a couple of them are on the phone, but not one person even acknowledged that I was there, even though they were feet away from me!! Not even a smile, just blank stares, very disconcerting. So I go to the second floor. There are 4 sweet lil' mini's just staring back at me, and these great little rides had a million times more personality than the 5, yes that's FIVE, sales people that were just in the Mini area alone. So, I'm looking at each model, strolling the small area, I'm thinking it's possible that they might have a low key sales tactic, I've been in sales for a long time and I know that I like to let a customer get acclimated before I ask if they need anything, however not one of these people even acknowledged my existence. A smile, a nod, just something to let me know they knew I was there, that little common courtesy that says "welcome to HC, we're here to help, feel free to ask us a question". Ten minutes, nothing. Fifteen minutes, not even a polite little nod. Now, 1 of the salesmen is with a customer closing a deal. FOUR other's, all feet away from me, all who have looked me dead in the eye with that same creepy blankness, yet still twenty minutes after my arrival have not said a word to me. One guy actually looked at me then turned around, walked into his office, and started cleaning it!! Guess emptying the trash was more important than helping a customer. Oh, might also mention that he was the Mini Sales Manager!! He should've come right over to me, or asked one of the other sales people to ask me if I needed anything. So finally one of the salesmen decides that his break is over and he comes up to me and asks me if I need anything. No, I don't need anything, I'm just hanging out here on a Friday afternoon because it's fun!! So I ask him half jokingly if he's the only guy working, he looks at me if I'm crazy, not quite understanding the joke. I then asked, looking towards the other sales guys, "so they're all on their lunch break or something". Again, no response. OK, time for business I guess, except that I only had 5 minutes left of the break that I was on. When I told him that, he asked if I could come back later!! I told him that would be fine, that I was interested in buying 2 mini's and that I'd come back tomorrow morning. He seemed a bit stressed, saying that Saturday's are very very busy and it would really be better if I came back that evening. I said that my guy didn't get out of work till later and they close at 7, Saturday morning would be much better for both of us. He was visibly annoyed and said that he couldn't guarantee that we'd get quick help being that Saturday's are busy!! Oh well, I took his car and left.

Now, being that HC is one of only 2 Mini dealers in Boston, and it's right down the street from my house, we thought this would be good for us.

So, I'm gonna try and shorten this up.
First off, we decided on only on Mini, just for economical reasons. But we still wanted the 2 Vespa. However, even though HC owns both Boston Vespa and the Mini Dealer, we would've had to go through 2 totally separate sales procedures!! Ugh, all in one day that was a bit of a pain, they were even gonna run our credit twice. When we asked if they could just send the credit they run for the Mini over to the Vespa department they looked at us as if we were nuts! We asked why they couldn't, and we actually didn't get a real decipherable answer. So anyway, we pick out the Mini we are interested in, we give them the keys to our trade and go on a test drive. The test drive was nice with a very nice young man who told us so very much about the car, just about everything we needed to know about it and more. He was passionate about the brand and even drove one himself. He was really knowledgeable and friendly and the test drive was a great experience. I wish I could remember his name, he deserves kudos!! We get upstairs and back to our sales guy, out of respect I'm not giving any names. So we had told him our budget, and the price he comes up with is just too much. Also, like several others have mentioned, the offer that they were giving us on our trade was absolutely ridiculous!! It was in fact insulting. When I voiced my surprise at the trade price, the sales guy actually got all defensive with me, as if I was accusing him of something!! I wasn't, I was just surprised. So, we let him know that it was just too much for us to spend right now. He got even more defensive!! I'm sitting there shocked, my husband is cool as a cucumber. Funny thing is, the calmer my guy is, the more ticked off the salesman became!! He said things to us like "you can buy another brand that has some sort of incentive, but those are always scams"!!
These kind of comments continued for about five minutes. I don't know if he thought that by making a barrage of negative comments about our trade and other brands would make us give in and take the "deal".

We left, thankful that we didn't buy. Guess I should've know when I was ignored at 3 different HC's (Oh, I went into HC Honda to inquire about Honda scooters and was ignored for a good 10 minutes) that the service might not be so great.
Also, as I stated I've been in sales for many years and am now a business owner. What I am incredibly surprised about is the lack of over all service from this salesman. I mean, OK we couldn't afford the payments on the model that we were looking at. There are several other models!! The one we were pricing was top of the line, most expensive Mini. What a good salesman does is ask if we need the leather interior, the dual sunroofs, navigation, all those little extras. I think that if he said "hey I've got this great Mini on the lot that is the same model, but has a few less accessories, and that will save you a bit of money" we most likely would have bought it.
Also very surprising to me was that he didn't even make any attempt what so ever to change the price of the car. The model we were looking at was a 2007 left over. That's almost a 2 year old car that was just sitting there!! Yes, the price was less than the 08, but he could've at least attempted to ask the sales manager to see if there was anything at all that could be done about the price. But, he didn't do any of this. He honestly could've gotten us into a new Mini with less amenities, but he didn't even try. Instead when we said that we couldn't do it he got incredibly defensive. I looked at my husband finally after about five minutes of hearing about how we'd never get any more money for our trade (which we weren't even questioning by the way, although when we got home and looked up the blue book value it was in fact FOUR GRAND MORE than what they were offering), and how we'd never get such a nice car for such a small amount of money, and so much more was said that, so after 5 minutes or so of this I looked at the hubby and said I wanted to go. Salesman turns to me and says "Have I offended you?"!!! OK, talk about self conscious!! No, you haven't offended me, I just don't need to sit at your desk all night and hear all your excuses as to why I should buy this car when I can't afford it!!! The payment that he came up with was $100 more a month than what we told him we wanted to spend! So, he does a last minute fudging of the numbers and says he can knock the payment down by $5 a month!!! Wow, thanks, I appreciate that FIVE BUCKS!!! As a last minute comment he says "Well your car payment will be more but the gas mileage is better than what you're driving now, so you'll come out about even'!!! Oh my, I wanted to run as fast as I could out of there!! The whole point of us buying the Mini was so that we could start saving some money!!! At that point I would rather spend $85 filling up the tank of my Grand Cherokee V8 then buy a car from this guy. Oh and also the Mini takes only premium gas, so even though the mileage is better I'd still have to spend about $10 extra each time I fill up, so between that and the extra $100 a month on the car payment, I'd actually probably be spending more.

Oh, and I just want to add, the high monthly payments we would've had to pay had absolutely nothing to do with a credit rating, our credit is perfect and although we have a mortgage and are still paying off some grad school loans, we have no credit card debt. Also, we weren't looking for any special deals or special favors. We were just looking for a car to suit our needs in our price range, which this salesman did know. If he was doing his job right he would've found us that car. Our budget wasn't so low that we couldn't afford to buy a car. We could've afforded the payments on the high end cooper, we just didn't want to. But, as I've stated, this sales guy did absolutely nothing to get us into a car. So now we're dealing with the other Mini dealer in the Boston area, and have found an incredible Vespa dealer as well and couldn't be happier. Oh, might also add that we have found the Mini of our dreams, the same exact model as the one at HC, same year, no miles, and the car payment is actually less than our budget, and they are giving us the proper value for our trade!!!

OOOpsy, so sorry to make this the longest post on here!!! Bless you all, even those who just skimmed this, and especially those who are now bored to tears!!! xoxo spiely:o)

Anonymous · 1 year ago

DONT BUY FROM HERB CHAMBERS HONDA WESTBORO
or from any others as I'm sure their all the same.

As you have read on this page and heard from almost anyone you ask, HC management and finance people are lying fucking scumbags. I'm ashamed of myself for buying from them. Let me keep it short and say as soon as you sign ,their done with you, they dont care if your happy or not because the next sucker is already in the door. All the fancy advertizing and commercials take care of garenteed new costumers to fuck. HC shouldn't be in business. We should start an annual HC boycott day and stand infront of the stores to prevent any further victims. ANYONE INTERESTED?
HC is so slick, their on this site writing happy stories.

HC employee who went to colleg · 1 year ago

I don't believe I was being all defensive, just observing the way some people have stated that HC employees are uneducated, can't spell, etc. Judging by the posts, a fair amount of the employees who post on here do come off as stupid and ignorant. It's hard to read a lot of this stuff when I know I get up in the morning with the intention of doing my job well and fairly. But, I'm not in sales, so I don't subscribe to any of that slick, glossy scamming that some sales people are known for. My story isn't always happy either. It's not like working at Willie Wonka's Chocolate Factory. In fact, not even damn close. I am in no way pumping up the company, just saying that there are some employees out there who give a crap.

Anonymous in Beantown · 1 year ago

Hey people.. there is an "edit war" going on over on Wikipedia in the Herb Chambers Companies article. I signed up for an account, "BostonBrew" to try to set the record straight and include this page. But I am not getting much help!!!

r.c from lynnfield · 1 year ago

my wife recently bought a honda fit from honda north in danvers,she would not even think about buying a car from herb chambers she thinks the guys just an arrogant rich prick.also i hope his flagship motors dealership is enjoying the blasting and rock drilling going on behind them.im sure the people living near his dearship are overjoyed but im sure he doesnt give a shit as long as he makes a profit its to bad there are people in the world like hc

BeanTownSuds · 1 year ago

Hello all! I felt compelled to comment because my sense of fairness was tweaked a bit.

Something is brewing here that makes me uncomfortable, and I'm not sure if it's good for all concerned. So here goes my 2 cents worth and an attempt at helping others who are shopping for a new car.

After finding and reading through this blog (we purchased a new Lexus last week) I decided to give the offending dealer a chance anyway. What did I have to lose right? I needed a car, wanted a Lexus and a positive buying experience.

My fiancé and I shopped all the Greater Boston usual suspects. Guess what? The only negative we found across the board is weekend shopping.

Kinda like eating out on a Saturday right?
Don't expect the owner or manager of a busy restaurant to visit your table and chat when there is a wait to get in.

So there it is. We found shopping for a car is best after work during the week, never on a weekend.

Our best shopping, price and buying experience (after a 3 week quest and narrowing things down to two dealers) was at the whipping boy's Sharon MA Lexus dealership.

Ok that's it I guess. Same old, same old.
Never believe everything you read or hear right?
Do your own research (on the web and in person) and then take a minute to tell your side of the story.

LEE MD · 1 year ago

I've bought 2 Infiniti's over the last 5 years from HC infiniti...they have always been good to me....I'm friendly with the service guys when I go in and guess what-they ALWAYS seem to bend over backwards to help me out. I think most people on here bring the drama on themselves....life is way to short to complain,complain,complain....come on people-be nice to people and people will be nice back-that's human nature.

LEE MD · 1 year ago

btw---speilberg's complaint was longer than my thesis...

dvdoff · 1 year ago

To Beantown Suds;

Your "sense of fairness was tweaked"? Well, I'm sorry you're "uncomfortable" with this blog and the overwhelming evidence that HC and his dealerships are scum. Maybe you and your fiance can jump into the new Lexus in your Black Dog t-shirts and head over to Sonsie to discuss how you showed them awful working people over at that website how to buy a Lexus. You see, the purpose of this website (to me), is that it's hard enough out there making ends meet, people should not have their hard earned money hustled from them so HC can fuel his Bugatti or his G5. Then you have someone like you come along to tell the world that hey, you people shouldn't complain, be like me, I can afford to be ripped off! And most people here don't go to restaurants to have the owner come to your table, heck most people here can't afford to go out to eat, they can't afford the gas. They can't afford the gas because maybe they were late on a couple of credit card payments and when the went to a HC dealership, the finance manager could see that he could make a few bucks off of the few times they were 30 days over on their TRW. Then the finance manager tells them they they are what they call a "GMD", which means "Get Me Done". "It's gonna be a tough sell" he tells the unsuspecting customer, "I might have some trouble finding a bank to give you a loan". He then calls a friend at either Citizen's or Primus Financial and together they come up with a 8% APR for the customer. The finance manager, your new friend, then whacks the APR up to 12% and the dealership makes 4% on the financing, of which your friend the finance manager takes a nice cut. I used to ask the finance manager what types of people generally have the worst credit and to my surprise, he said "Doctors and dentists". When I asked why that was he said, "They never pay back their student loans". "Why do I always see them riding around in nice cars?", I asked. He replied,"You see, their debt to income ratio is skewed in their favor, so 9 times out of 10, they get financed anyway". Basically, a doctor makes so much money, that his income far exceeds what he owes on his credit report, so he's more likely to get financed (even though his credit score might be a 550).

Now, in all fairness, I'm sure some salesmen are not all that bad, I know I wasn't, I would actually tell people to walk away from "GMD" deals, because I could see that it would be bad for them in the long run. There were plenty of people with perfect credit who would get good deals, and that was enough to live on. You see, most car salesmen make nothing on new cars, I would only make a $75.00 commission on a new car. This is part of the reason some salesmen are high pressure is that they need the volume of small commissions to make a decent week's pay. The real money was in used cars.
When they would screw a guy on a trade in, they could then make some obscene profits on the resale,because they would make anywhere from 2-6K profit on the car. My end was 20% on a used car. Lucky for me, my cousin was the general manager and I doubled as an IT guy for the dealership when they would have small computer issues, as I was making my way through IT school, so nobody really gave me a hard time when I would let a customer walk, which I would sometimes encourage customers to do.

So, Suds, I'm sorry if you don't think that HC gets a fair shake, but I'm sure 90% of the people here don't live in Weston or on Marlborough Street and don't have their asses kissed when they are trying to buy a Yaris. You know what a Yaris is? That's the car on the other end of the Toyota spectrum.

While I can see overwhelmingly that HC dealerships are above the norm when it comes to scumbags working there, there's always that one guy like me, you just have to find him. I love this blog and I hope it never comes down!

Pete · 1 year ago

I was a little skeptical about dealing with Herb Chambers after reading many of the above posts, but after tracking which dealers were consistently offering the best prices in the newspaper and on the internet I had to go in anyway.

My wife and I just bought her a new Caravan this morning at HC in Millbury. We went there intending to purchase a new Grand Cherokee this past Saturday, but then she saw the Caravans. I've been driving Jeeps for 25 years now but had never bought a Dodge before so I told the Salesman I needed to go home and do some research and that we would be back in less than a week. He gave us no pressure whatsoever and gave us his work hours for the coming week.

We went back this AM and bought the Caravan at a very good price. I had checked the trade in value of her 2000 Cherokee Sport and I figured that was going to be the bone of contention but much to my surprise I got what I considered to be a very fair offer and accepted it.

I then knew the next potential problem was going to be in finance where the finance manger would certainly try to sell us on some very expensive extended warranty. He did try, but I very nicely explained I wasn't interested and he said OK and moved on. We went in already pre-approved via my wifes credit union for a loan and the finance manager offered us a better rate without knowing what rate we already had.

I can only speak for myself but I found the whole experience to be totally stressless and actually quite pleasant compared to the many other times I've bought new cars. Everyone was very nice to us and I wouldn't hesitate to go back to this dealership again.

Holly · 1 year ago

OMG! Lots of info here, worth the read.

Loyal H.C. Employee · 1 year ago

to dvdoff-

for someone who is awful opionated about Herb Chambers and his employees, you sure seem to feel like you have this site figured out, assuming which people can afford what.

ive followed this site since my 1dt post in Oct. of '07 and ther have been alot of complaints and compliments as well- however, respecting both the good and the bad, i would say there is a good mix regarding the vehicles written about; bmw's, mercedes, lexus, etc. Not to metion this blog was started by an infiniti customer.

the long and short of it is don't be an @$$hole to someone for being able to afford a lexus- just like you wouldn't want a lexus customer to be an @$$hole to someone who couldn't afford one.

taking your comments out of context you just made yourself look like a jerk for going off on a guy who had a differnent opinion than you.

you called herb a prick, but sorry pal- you didn't make yourself look much better!

dvdoff · 1 year ago

Loyal HC employee

I don't want to start a flame war on this site, they are counter productive to the nature of the site, which is information and opinion on how much of a sleazeball outfit HC runs. I also find it the apex of poor taste that you link to the HC website in your comments, something that runs contrary to the nature of the site. Your umbrage seems not to stem so much from my assumptions about people's incomes, but the fact that I tried to educate some readers about the true nature of our friends, the finance managers.

Plus you don't know how to use either spell or grammar check.

Now go back to chasing ups around the parking lot.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I am a 40 yr old disabled woman and on a fixed income. I told this to the sales person and business manager. There was a Honda Element that I was interested in and I asked the business manager how much a month with just the sticker price be. It was a little more than what I wanted to pay but I said to myself it would be ok. I get to the office and filled out the paperwork. He told me - the business manager - the Simoniz 5, LoJack and some type of Tire Guard was included. Here I'm thinking what a great deal. I get home and looked over my paperwork. That man added an additional $1500 to my car . Remember he said it was "included". They were NOT included. I then contacted him and told him I only wanted him to figure out the monthly amount from the sticker price.
Since I'm disabled and on disability I am exempt from paying sales tax and THAT MAN had the nerve to say to me "well you don't have to pay sales tax". How low can someone get. To make a long story short I contacted the General Manager and explained to him how rude and unprofessional him business manager was to me. They ended up paying the $1500 toward my loan. NEVER, NEVER again will I do business with them. I would never recommend anyone to Herb Chambers. I did report them to the BBB and to The Attorney Generals Office, they told me that this complaint will be on file for 7 years. Just look online, there's too many bad stories by customers. I should of looked them up before going. Live and learn.

Lisa · 1 year ago

I wrote the previous complaint dated 6/22/08. I want to add I purchased my Honda from Herb Chambers of Westboro. I've read a lot of these complaints and noticed Westboro has a nasty record. I no longer get my vehicle serviced from HC's anymore. There is a Honda Dealer in the next town over from where I live that will be getting my business.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I would have to disagree with the comments from Herb Chambers Employees... I see it every day... Herb Chambers managers only care about one thing and that is money... Keep your eyes open and you will see what I'm talking about... Herb is greedy and he brags about all of his crap that he has...

Al · 1 year ago

Herb Chambers in Lynnfield are a bunch of mental defective scam artists and crooks, especially their service department. They couldn't diagnose a flat tire! They lie, cheat and steal and have no regard for their customers. Hope you go down in flames, Flagship!

ray · 1 year ago

after selling my hc of Braintree 2005 dumptruck I was informed that I was entitled to a refund on the unused portion of my extended warranty.... well guess what....six calls and still no return call from the finance managers so I called the GM. he took my number and said he would get back to me....guess what...I really don`t have to tell you , do I. Well the jokes on them, I`m flying out to the east coast to purchase two new trucks for my business next week and there`s no doubt, the dumbasses have lost my business over what probably amounted to about 500.00 if that. WAKE UP HERB !!!!!!!!!!!

ray · 1 year ago

oh yes, by the way, if any of you dedicated HC employees know of any way in which I can get the money I`m entitled to I would be glad to hear from you. But then again, I probably won`t hear from you either. Guess it`s a HC thing.

Loyal H.C. Employee · 1 year ago

In posting this, I would like to touch base on a few separate posts and respond to individuals…

First off to “r.c. from Lynnfield”:

You have spoken about what a scumbag Herb Chambers is because of the on-going construction project behind his Flagship Mercedes Dealership on Rt. 1 in Lynnfield; yet you fail to realize it is your town’s fault that project is going on and in fact it is not even Herb who is doing it.

Back in 2002 Herb Chambers owned the 15 acres behind Flagship and wanted to build a parking lot using about ½ an acre; yet he couldn’t because the land was zoned residential. So in an effort to try and win over your town’s people he donated $50,000 to your youth sports programs, and bought new uniforms for your little league teams, and your Pop-Warner football and cheerleading programs; he also offered to donate 14 acres of that land to the town, and spend $150,000 constructing a new town playground. However, your town voted against the “big bad Herb Chambers” so 6 years later he sold the land to a developer like he said he would and now is not a even apart of the project you curse him for. I understand you not wanting to have that noise and mess in a residential area I wouldn’t want it going on around my house either but check all the info before you curse someone who is not even involved.

Next, to “dvdoff”:

I completely agree with you that a “flame war” is counter productive to this site. And if you read at some previous posts that I have made, I am never derogatory nor am I ever condescending to anyone on this blog- I am merely here to directly refute statements that all people at Herb Chambers are scum. You can make your attack personal about misspelling and incorrect grammar (I am sure no one on this site has ever typed fast and hit a wrong key) and you can tell me to go “chase ups”, however, you only prove my point. I am not here advocating the mistreatment some people have gotten on this site; it angers me that mine and my company’s name are sullied by such slander. However, it does anger me every time I read a compliment on this site and the person who posted it has to be chased off the blog.

So “dvdoff” I have no “war” with you; you sit at your computer, and I at mine and we will probably never transcend those boundaries. However, as I said in my first post on this site, “For whatever reason People in the automobile industry are held to a higher standard than people of other employ. Everything we say or do is held under a microscope. When one walks into a Wal-Mart or a target and is treated with disrespect or is ignored or spoken to rudely it just gets dismissed, meanwhile if a coworker of mine looks at you the wrong way it generates a horrible survey or a slew remarks regarding how awful we all are…”

I wish that people could understand that in all walks of life and employ there are good and bad. I wouldn’t generalize about a top restaurant because I had a bad server. And I just don’t get how people on this forum can generalize about a company of over 1500 people and say we are all scum, or how people who have never met Herb no he’s a scumbag. It doesn’t make sense. And I know some of you have worked for him but it still doesn’t add up!

That’s my only point my friend.

And finally, to “ray”:

Depending on which warranty you bought (API went out of business and is not offering a pro-rated portion of funds back) all you would have to do is go to the dealership and say that you want to cancel your warranty- the dealership you traded your car into could have done that for you.; but they will have you sign 2 pieces of paperwork and its done, the warranty company will put a check in the mail once they process the paperwork. I hope that helps.

Sorry to disappoint you but some of us do try to help clients…


- J

ray · 1 year ago

Thank you J. for your quick response. By the way I sold my truck privately and I happen to reside in the southwest at this time. My real problem lies with the fact that they refuse to call me or help settle this matter. As a new customer with 50,000 in my pocket believe me I had no problem getting people to talk to me. I have never treated my customers this way and I`m sure if I did I would someday end up in the unemployment line. By the way I for one don`t think all HC employees are scum but the way I`ve been treated is certainly a reflection on the conpany as a whole and as such they have lost another customer. Thanks again for your reply.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

To J -

First, Herb Chambers wanted to convert 9 acres to a parking lot, not half as you describe. Second, his company did give money for sports uniforms, but it was seen as a transparent bribe. Finally, he never agreed to a playground. So, it is you that should check your facts.

Next, please don't confuse not greeting customers with the offenses outlined here. Violating MA law and selling cars without titles, not refunding peoples money, and packing payments is a little different.

This is not one or two incidents. As you can see from this blog, it is a clear pattern that obviously starts at the top!

anonymous · 1 year ago

I worked for the chambers companies the mission statemant is nothing but a lie and the manner in which the dealer ship was run was under handed everything was hidden from the staff . i left that company with the worst taste in my mout ever it is a sad thing to say this

ray · 1 year ago

I posted my complaint about HC of Braintree so I think it is only fair that I post this letter of satisfaction. Scott the GM called me back the next day to get the info on my warranty, given only the mileage he told me that he would send me a check for the balance. I wondered just how long it would take and how many times I would have to call to receive my money. Well my wife called me the very next day to tell me that DHL had delivered the check to our home in AZ. Scott actually overnighted our check, and in light of everything that had happened, that is what I call customer service.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Ray, I would say, this is the power this blog now has on Herb Chambers! I would bet they wouldn't have done it without your post here!

ray · 1 year ago

I hate to say it , but I believe you hit the nail right on the head. It`s a shame that that some businesses can`t conduct themselves in an honest manner, being an honest man myself I don`t ever think I`ll understand that mindset. I`ve always run my business treating others the way I would want to be treated but then again I`m nowhere as rich as some of these people. Maybe I`m doing the wrong thing but you know what, if thats what it takes, I`d rather be poor. I sleep very well at night. I`d like to thank the people or person who made this site possible because without it I`m sure I`d still be waiting for that phone call. When I get back to the east coast and drop 80,000 for the next two trucks I can only hope the next dealer has the commen sense not to be pennywise and pound foolish. A loyal customer is the future of your business. Thanks again. Ray

Loyal H.C. Employee · 1 year ago

It baffles me... even when our company does something right- the people involved get no credit! just goes to show the mindset here... There is just no pleasing everyone i guess

Mike · 1 year ago

It seems to me Ray just gave someone some credit. Another clever comment by a HC employee!! I bet you if he was not treated badly in the first place he would have bought there, shame shame!!

Loyal H.C. Employee · 1 year ago

i wasn't refering to Ray i was refering to "anonymous" but thanks mike...

Mike · 1 year ago

So, Loyal HC employee, whats your response to that?

Not painless · 1 year ago

Has anyone sucessfully negotiated the "smart price" ?

anonymous · 1 year ago

In all fairness, Kelly Blue Book is not an accurate representation of used car values. The market changes DAILY, as gas prices soar diffrent vehicles values change. People are trying to trade-in their large V-8 and V-10 trucks, the market is flodded and these vehicles are worth FAR, FAR, less than KBB lists. For a fair assesment of a vehicles value look at Manheim Auto Auction or in your local area ie. Lynnway Auto Auction. I used to work for Herb and I agree with alot of the comments here, I wouldn't send my worst enemy to visit his dealerships, but, facts are facts.

Former Flagship Employee

ANONYMOUS · 1 year ago

Anyone listen to Jay Severino promoting the high regard for buying a car at Herb Chambers? Apparently he has an inside track for being treated unlike the ordinary customer, since all he does is rave about their superior ethics and quality of lovefest that goes along with buying a car at one of the Chambers outlets. Well, I went into Flagship Motors buy a Mercedes E500 4matic, and I wound up walking out. Arrrogance in wrinkled Marshalls suits parading around as though we are non existant. Anyway, I did buy one in a NH dealership for a great, no haggle price and the service has been top notch. Thanks, Herb.

anonymous · 1 year ago

Re: Comments from (Former HC Employee (11:31:19) :) above.

My father worked for Herb for a very short time. Every thing stated is exactly what he experienced as well. I can vouch that those statements were not written by a disgruntled employee looking to get even with Herb, they are TRUE.

Rick · 1 year ago

Wanna have some fun? Go to the Jeep dealership on 114 in Danvers and try to buy a car. Always three or four salespeople outside smoking their brains out and too busy to help you. When one of them approaches, you can smell the odoeur of stinkin' smoke and they like to get close enough to breathe on you. Real comfortable! Once was enough for me. The dealership in Salisbury is pretty good. You pretty much get the bottom price right away and they're friendly. Amazing!

WTF · 1 year ago

I previously posted on this site to warn others of how business is done at Herb Chambers Honda in Westboro, and I have to retract that. After posting on this site I received a call from the general manager that night to address my problems. He promised to make it the easiest car buying experience ever and he did. He introduced me to the best salesman Rick who has been more than helpful. They gave me what I deserved for my trade and further reduced the price of the car. They helped with student financing and with my out of state plates. Rick stayed on top of the DMV to get the job done. Rick also did a great job of explaining the car to me which was not previously done. All I can say is not every salesperson is going to be great, but there are some people in this organization that care and want to do business professionally.

CodyRidley · 6 months ago

So, all of Chambers' customers should come here to complain and then sit patently waiting for a positive experience to come their way? Sounds a bit fishy to me. Or more like a fake ass response.

lucysandini · 3 months ago

ya sure WTF. And how did they get your number posting on this website? Nice try Herb.

BK · 1 year ago

I have had nothing but good luck with Herb Chambers in Boston on Commonwealth Avenue. My husband and I are each into roughly 4 cars with then (leasing and buying) through the BMW dealership. We have become lifelong customers, as they have treated us so well there. Sure, there are sometimes glitches when you pick up a new vehicle, but they do their best. They accept ownership of issues/problems, have been accountable and do whatever they can to accommodate us and rectify anything. It is the first place I have ever gone where the car buying experience has not been a nightmare, and I look forward to doing business with them. I also trust them. It is a very busy dealership, and everyone is working hard. I highly recommend them!

saritahendelman · 3 months ago

Aren't u lucky! Wish I could say the same.

Jackie P. · 1 year ago

I found this site while looking for a used civic for my daughter before I actually set foot into a dealership. I went through it. Went through the car process. Then, decided to comment back here:

So I walked into a store the other day to make a small household purchase. The place was confusing. I couldn't find what I was looking for, and when I asked a person who worked there they gave me an answer with an attitude (talk about friendly service!), and sent me to the garden center rather than where I needed to get to. Half an hour later, I found what I'm looking for and found the check out lanes. I waited, and waited, and believe it or not, waited some more. Finally, after listening to my kids tell me how tired they were and didn't want to wait anymore, I reach the cashier; who, by the way is having a side conversation about her and her ex boyfriends latest fight. It made for a terrible afternoon. With that said, all people who work for this store state wide (or further if it goes that far) are morons, incompetant, and I will NEVER buy from them again.

Point of the story? Things go wrong. In stores, large buisnesses, banks, and... ready?... car dealerships. With the amount of people that walk onto those floors everyday, it's bound to happen once or twice. People also tend to rant and rave more about bad experiences over good ones. I know I do. And granted, sometimes you have to in order to get someone to deal with your problem. But, going into how horrible every employee is? Seriously, come on. I hated buying my last car. I got treated the same way everywhere I went. What do you want? A civic. How about this instead? No. Great financing! No. C'mon! No C'MON!!! No..... etc. etc. Boch did a great deal of that, and honestly, I got it at Herb Chambers as well. The thing is... it's there job to try to get us to buy these things. That's how they make a living. That's how they support their families.

Lastly, so that this doesn't become too extended, I read a lot about the sales people who post on here to be lying, (which clearly they are), but who's to say some of these posts aren't from a competitor trying to make Herb Chambers look even worse and/or adding fuel to the fire? Sometimes you need to jump in and do something for yourself to see if that was one of the few bad experiences or not, rather than just going by some on-line posts. Just my two cents to all those who read this and are planning on buying a car in the future.

Geoff · 1 year ago

I am a Canadian who thought all Hyundai dealerships mechanics could actually fix Hyundai vehicles. Unlike everywhere else in the world, Auburn Hyundai technicians have no clue how to fix Hyundai cars. I walked into the dealership to have my vehicles fixed to the sound of a very irate gentleman swearing that the morons had no idea what was wrong with his vehicle and his wife calming him down explaining that they can leave the vehicle there not knowing that five days later it will be my turn. They charged me a handsome some and I still have the same problem. I want the money the incompetent morons charged me and my brother will to tow the vehicle to back to Canada. The Hyundai dealership technicians there know their job, they can fix hyundai vehicles.

Geoff · 1 year ago

I wrote here three days ago about my car and the mechanics not being able to fix it. I towed it from the Hyundai dealership and got it fixed by a different mechanic for $75.00 not the $142.00 for parts and additional costs of labour as I had been told by the service clerk. Problem is that they did work that was not necessary and I want to get my money back. They installed a starter for $603.00 and the car did not need the starter. I want to know how do you confront them about this and how do you get you money back? Any help out there?

Ryan · 9 months ago

In May of 2008, I had a very poor experience with Westboro location of Herb Chambers Honda. I wanted to come back onto this site and reiterate how impressed I was with the way they resolved my issue promptly once they found out they had a dissatisfied customer.

Like any line of business, there are employees that do not care about rhe customer and are simply looking out for their bottom line. Theie are some of those people working at every single car dealer whether the name starts with Boch, Herb Chambers, or whatever.

What truly matters is what the company (with management acting as the face of the company) does when faced with an unhappy customer. Do they chalk it up to "oh well, we'll get the next one" or do they seriously think about the impact of one unhappy, dissatisfied customer on their business?

The GM of the Westboro Honda location falls in the second category.

Bill · 6 months ago

Over the past 10 years, I, and my family (2 brothers and parents), have purchased a number of vehicles from Herb Chambers Lexus, Honda, Acura, Porsche and have had no issues whatsoever. In fact, contrary to what I've read on this blog, I find their sales staff to be courteous, friendly and HONEST from the first handshake to the handing over of keys. Other dealerships, BOCH to be specific, routinely advertise "to good to be true" deals that they never intend to make good on, which serve as a loss leader to bring customers in the door. In my opinion, BOCH should be shut down for their false and misleading advertising and deceptive business practices, but until something happens to change my opinion of Herb Chambers, I'll continue to be a loyal customer of their dealerships. My experience with Herb Chambers has been nothing but positive.

Boston20 · 6 months ago

Bill,
Are you smoking drop or Herb Chambers himself ? They have had my BMW for a total of 63 days over the last year for the same problem. I just wonder how many people would panic if you asked for "Green Card" in the repair dept.

janice23 · 3 months ago

LETS JUST HOPE YOU DID'NT GET SCAMMED IN FINANCE, IT SEEMS THAT IS WHAT THEY DO TO EVERYONE, TRUST ME I KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE

CodyRidley · 6 months ago

Herb Chambers' company is responsible for these dozens of complaints and frankly, I'm happy to have found this site while searching for the dealers name. It's an excellent example of the power of the Internet and I'm happy that an article written nearly four years ago continues to be relevant in the eyes of Google.

Have you actually searched for their name before? It's sickening just how many paper thin sites are out there. It makes finding legitimate information like this next to impossible.

Boston20 · 5 months ago

I will never set foot in a HC Dealership. I asked the Volvo dealership to sign an agreement that he would not sell to HC, he laughed. While I was in the showroom another customer came over to me and shared his HC horror story

Mike · 5 months ago

I couldn't disagree with you more! I purchased my Honda S 2000 from the Herb Chambers dealership on Commonwealth Ave and was treated with the utmost of respect. I've had my S 2000 in for service and found the service department to be fantastic!

tim · 5 months ago

Last week went in to herb chambers toyota in auburn, looking for new vehicle for my daughter the experience was terrible the salesman lied the managers were yelling i think the general manager was yelling it was terrible, very unprofessional.

Name · 3 months ago

I just want to say thank you for all of the Herb Chambers information good and bad. I wish others did the same.

saritahendelman · 3 months ago

I'd love yo join in. I bought a Rav4 from them in July 03. In Jan 06 the car was totaled in accident. I have been trying to get the money for the extended warranty since. Well here I am in July 09 and still no refund. I emailed Herb Chambers directly. I thought with his response that the matter would be taken care of quickly. So after no response from the Auburn dealership that he notified,I sent another email to Herb. Shortly thereafter I got an email from the Sales manger in Auburn. I took a friend along on Thursday and met with the Sales Mgr. That as u probably have guessed was a total waste of time. Incompetence abounds. After having a discussion he offered me half of the contract back. But, (wait here comes the punch line) If I wait until next July, I can have it all Back$1203. Well needless to say, that didn't appease me. Also the gm was not there. I was told to come back at 5 to meet with him. Well, guess who wasn't there> Yep no gm. Must have been a real loooooong doctors appt, from10.30 on. Then (I know) I'm told that even if he were there and could help, the checks are locked up at 4pm. So why oh why was I told to come back? Well, Herb has til 1 pm. tomorrow. After that I go to the Attorney General and Investigative reports on CH 4,5,7.
I find that is is impossible to have a warranty or contract on an item that doesn't exist. And yes, I submitted proof from the insurance co that the car is demolished.

janice23 · 3 months ago

THIS IS A WARNING TO ALL FUTURE CUSTOMERS OF HERB CHAMBERS DEALERSHIPS! THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO PURCHASE THAT YOU CAN MAKE IN FINANCING THAT WILL LOWER YOUR INTEREST RATE!!!! I WAS SCAMMED AND TOLD THAT MY INTEREST RATE WOULD GO DOWN FROM 8% TO 5% IF I PURCHASED AN EXTENDED SERVICE WARRANTY! I FOUND OUT THE NEXT DAY THAT THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING YOU CAN PURCHASE IN FINANCE THAT WILL LOWER YOUR INTEREST RATE, IT WOULD HAVE ALREADY BEEN 5% TO BEGIN WITH, THEY JUST LIE TO YOU AND TELL YOU THAT IT IS HIGHER SO YOU CAN PURCHASE THINGS AND THEY CAN MAKE MONEY OFF OF YOU. DO NOT FALL FOR THEIR SCAMS!!!!

lucysandini · 3 months ago

I have been given the run around and lied to several times on the cash for clunkers program since I attempted to buy an Elantra on 7/27/09 from their Auburn location. For example they changed the negotiated price once I disclosed I had a clunker. They told me at 1st my vehicle didn't qualify and then reversed themselves once they realized I wouldn't buy a new car if it wasn't under the program. I still don't have my new vehicle and now I can't get back my title to my old vehicle.

shannonhodge · 2 months ago

i went to greg coats in louisville ky i took my 2001 eddie bauer expedition in to trade in , i picked out a 2005 expedition xlt i filled out credit app they sold my trade in, in 3days and 44 days later not approved they sold my car ,want there car back and for me to take bus home , what should i do ? kay

deirdre138 · 2 months ago

I had a recent experience that left a bad taste in my mouth. To be fair I will start with the positives. The first sales person I met who took me on my test drive was very accomidating, helpful and friendly despite being a brand new employee she was fantastic. The senior sales person I dealt with on my first visit there was also helpful in that he was respectful to the time limits I had set for being there. I was able to negotiate a pretty good price and a pretty good APR. When I called off the deal the business manager and salesperson exercised restraint and were not rude to me like other peoples experiences I see listed here. Here is the negative. It turns out that in the beginning of the transaction despite my repeated questions for clarification we had a complete misunderstanding on the value of my trade-in. Which instead of taking 2,000 OFF the price of my car, added 2,000 to the amount I was financing. The phrasing was strange and I thought they were offering me more than my trade in was worth. In reality they were offering me much less than it was worth. I walked out on the deal about 5 minutes after the dealership closed for the night and they stated they could not return my deposit until the cashier returned the following day. The paperwork that I did sign stated that I was intitled to a full refund since no finished contract had been made or signed by either party. I called the next day to just touch base and confirm that the credit had been made to my account and was told by the sales manager that he couldn't find the paperwork, which seemed fishy to me. I called later and he said he still couldnt find it but he would talk to the sales person and call me back immediately to let me know it was taken care of. I called back after not recieving a call from him and was greeted by rudeness but told that I should see the refund post in a couple of days. I can't help but feel like they are screwing around with me here. I have called my bank and by my accounts having worked in retail I should have seen a pending transaction come through by Thursday and have not yet. Hopefully it is coming through soon. My bank says to wait until Wednesday and if it doesn't post by then they will launch a fraud investigation and refund my money. That's one thing Bank of America is good for! What I learned from this experience. 1) Keep your deposit as cash on the table. 2) If somethine seems too good to be true, it is. 3) If there is something that the wording is fuzzy on, ask them 100 times and 100 different ways till you fully understand it from all angles. 4) If they screw around with you too much you can always call your bank, the attorney general, the news.... and bitch on the internet!

carsalesguy · 1 month ago

Until recently I sold cars. I worked for Herb Chambers' years back. I am surprised to see these postings. Herb Chambers would be on the phone personally making things right when stuff went wrong. I worked for a lot of dealers. As far as the big guys' he was more customer friendly than any. But either way, he can't watch every employee, their job is to make money, use your heads, the business office is where you get hurt when you don't. The business manager is usually the highest paid and greasiest. Best advice, check your local credit unions' rates and do a little bit of price research b4 you go anywhere. Oh and be nice! I have never once been bullied into a deal, If I had to give something away, it was to someone who was nice to me!

Fly On The Wall · 1 month ago

Foreign Motors West is no longer, it was sold to The Herb Chambers Company over 2 years ago. Tom Mix (the late former owner) would be sad to see the way Mr. Chambers has taken it. Yes, FMW was employee owned and we needed to sell and good thing we did or we would have lost our investment dollars, the car biz is tough now. Most of the long time employees of FMW are now gone, weeded out by the new GM. My take on a Herb Chambers dealership, hostile work environment, this can not be good for the consumer. If a employee does not meet their numbers, they could be fired, so it's sell sell sell. So do your homework before you buy a vehicle, know all the rules, be firm and don't be bullied into buying something you don't want or need. And when you get that survey call/card, think before you answer and be fair, someone's job is on the line ( I have seen it happen ).

cfick · 1 month ago

Hi i just bought a Jeep at herb chambers and i was talked into buying the extended warranty (250 month for 12 months) for a 3 year ext. warranty....any experiences with this extended warranty....i bought a used jeep with aprox 75,000 miles

frankiez · 1 month ago

I used to work for a dealership in Rhode Island several years back. Worse job of my life. We were encouraged to basically lie, cheat our way to sell and were pressured to work bell to bell everyday inc days off. If you took your scheduled day you basically signed your own death warrant as the contempt from managament and other sales team members was overwhelming. I was told during my training that the "Documentation fees could never be negotiated or waived as it would open the Herb Chambers Auto Group to a potential lawsuit. When I asked why I was told all his dealers charge those fees and it had to be consistant. I asked then what are the fees for and was told by my GM, gas for Herb's yacht. I quit after a few months as I could not stand how I felt ripping people off all the time and the joy those I worked with took in screwing people over.

thomasjpeters · 3 weeks ago

I found 2 seperate hangars open to anyone( a terrorists dream) at the Waterbury Oxford Airport,CT ( Key Air ).I made sure they were secure,called the State Police,FAA,TSA,Homeland Security,Herb Chambers(he has a Gulfstream 450 and was a shipmate on the U.S.S.Lake Champlain(CVS39). I was forced by Key Air from their hangar where I was working for a tennant as a Pilot. I was thanked by Herbs secretary for letting him know about the bad lack of security. I had to retire. Just getting Social Security. Filed lawsuit against Key Air. Judge Droney dismissed my case a "Frivilous". Our troops are dying and Droney thinks
everything is " frivilous". Herb has his plane on charter with Key Air I found out later. Somebody got their ass chewed and I lost my job for securing the hangars ! I was working for AC Aviation.
Any thank you's can be addressed to: Thomas J.Peters,11013 Fuqua St.,#163,Houston,TX 77089
I was an FAA Safety Counsellor,ATP Pilot with 40 + years exp and A&P Mechanic

Undisclosed Sender · 2 weeks ago

I applaud your effort/s / challenge of 'fighting the good fight'! Keep up your noble effort/s! Thank you.

Name · 1 week ago

I have a new 2009 SLK Mercedes Benz. In less than 1000 miles the GPS/central control system screen went blank. I took it in for service and was told that I ruined the system by dropping coffee on the unit which friied a circuit board. The cup holder sits above the GPS and there is nothing to prevent coffee spills when going over bumpy roads in this tightly sprung car. They want $6,000 to replace a unit that costs #2,800 when ordered new. They reuse to discuss it and so I am taking them to arbitration. Considering the more than one million I have spent with this organization you think they would have gone to bat with MB for a good customer.

Anthony Rea · 1 week ago

I live in the Western Mountains of Maine. I surfed the web and landed at Herb Chambers Danvers, MA. I was looking for a 15 passenger van (still am). When I clicked on pre-owned it gave me a lot of options at great prices. @ $3,000.00 less than competition. I decided to drive there (@3 and 1/2 hour drive). Mike from Westborough got my online inquiry and called me as I was driving down. I told him I had my truck with plow attached (in October) and my title in hand and ready to make a deal. When I arrived in Danvers, MA I was told there was no Mike there and the vehicles were in Westborough (another hour away). The dealers all share the same internet inventory but don't inform you of that. I went to Westborough where I was told that because they had "SMART" prices there was no room for haggling. The salesperson also told me that they could not give me book value on my trade because they had already discounted the price of the van. To summarize...Herb Chambers lowers their price to lure you in, but discounts your trade to make the money back. It comes out the same as any other dealership. I heard a bunch of lies about them listening to what their customers want and they have a no hastel experience. NOT ! As I was driving back home to Maine, I received a call from the dealership asking me how everything went and was I satisfied. I was enraged. I told them about my having to drive eleven hours, the $100.00 gas and wear and tear on my truck with a plow attached, the inconvenience, and the attitude of the manager who did not even try to work out a deal as well as possessing no tact as a salesperson. I was scammed. I also told them that discounting a trade is dishonest because if you were to go in with a barrel full of money, they would have to honor their price (or maybe not?). Why is it OK to recoupe their loss on a trade...because they can? They should have just been honest with me and told me to stay home. I WAS SCAMMED!