Do all businesses answer to the Better Business Bureau?

Question

I bought a used car about a month ago. Still haven't gotten my plates and registration and every time I call them I get the run around. They were also supposed to get me a new Navigation Disc because the one in the car is not working properly. Needless to say, they have not done that either. My temporary plates and reg expire tomorrow, so I'm going down there today and planning to raise h**l.......

Which leads me to my question. Could I threathen to contact the BBB? I've also read on some previous posts on here that the DMV has a dealer licensing division or something like that. Any help on what agencies/departments I can try to use as leverage would be highly appreciated.

Answer 1

The business has to be a member of the BBB.  If they are, it is usually posted on the front door.

As for the tabs, blame the state DOT for that.  I used to work at a dealership.  Tabs almost never came in on time.

If your only other major concern is a Navigation DVD then I think you are REEEEEAAAALLLLYYYY jumping the gun running to the BBB already.  Chill out a bit my friend.

Answer 2

The BBB is all bark and no bite. They will intervene on your behalf, but usually won't accomplish anything other than sending a nice letter to the dealer. The dealer will reply to both you and the BBB, and then the BBB will drop the matter. That is all they can do.

Businesses pay to be a part of the BBB, and their ratings are based on the number of complaints they receive. However, an "unsatisfactory" rating does not get them removed from the BBB rolls, and they can proudly keep that sticker in their window. The public does not know this, usually. They assume that the BBB sticker means the business is always on the up-and-up.

I knew an agency in the Orlando area that had over 400 complaints filed against it in one year. Although their BBB rating was "unsatisfactory", they could still proudly claim to be a member of the BBB. The only way anyone could know about their complaints was to check out the local BBB website.

Answer 3

No, companies have to register with the BBB, but chances are being a car lot they have. I would absoloutely use the threat of a negative impact with the the BBB. As far as he navigation CD issue if you didnt get it in writing it is probably going to be a hassle, but keep with it. It may sound like a terrible thing to do, but make a scene in the showroom. Loudness gets results at times when nothing else works. They cant risk you influencing a prospective customer with not holding up their end of the deal. Remember the more people around the better. Just dont take it too far andend upin jail.