Theft

I recently took my truck to Purvis Ford for routine service. After picking up the vehicle and driving approximately a mile from the dealership, I took note that the power cord for my GPS was not connected to the power outlet. I normally store the GPS in the center console. Stopping at a traffic signal, I opened the center console and discovered that the GPS wasn't there. I pulled over, got out, scoured the truck and still no unit.

I immediately called the dealership, spoke with Mike Iden, my service coordinator and apprised him of the situation. He checked with the technician who'd serviced the vehicle and reported back that he had not seen a GPS. This in no way came as a surprise to me. It would however be reported to the manager. I tersely thanked him and hung up.

After returning home, I again checked the vehicle, under the seats, in all pockets and even the bin in the rear of the vehicle where I store jumper cables and other tools. Nothing. During this second search I also discovered approximately $3.00 missing from the change storage slots in the center console which I use to spray off the truck or pay the occasional toll.

It's bad enough that a low life employee at the dealership rips off my GPS. He/She reaches the level of being simply pathetic when they have to take loose change from the vehicle as well.

I've responded to this theft by firing off a complaint to the local BBB. To them, it's a police matter. I sent an email to Ford Corporate, simply to let them know what had occurred at one of their dealerships. I know they aren't responsible for who the dealership employs. However, they do know how I feel about one of their dealers.

I decided to also send a letter to the GM/Owner of Purvis and included a small gift. I removed the window mount for the GPS from the truck and included it as well. Heck, I don't need it anymore. Since I am unable to prove unequivocally which employee stole the GPS, as far as I'm concerned, everyone is suspect; from the owner/GM on down. I commented that the theft directly reflects the obvious lack of ethics, integrity and values of every employee at Purvis Ford. For want of a whopping $152, Purvis has lost the possibility of thousands of dollars in parts, service and future sales. In the grand scheme of things, taking my business elsewhere will have no real affect on their bottom line. However, by telling friends, family, coworkers and acquaintances, maybe they'll think twice of shopping there, and that will have some affect.

Some will say I was too trusting and foolish to leave the GPS in the truck in the first place. That may be true. Still, I would expect this type of thing from a no name mechanic or shop...not from a dealership.

It's been a week since the original call to the service coordinator. I did believe for the briefest of seconds that I'd hear back from the dealership. Then reality set in. I've heard nothing. No surprise there either. I doubt anything was conveyed.

My wife says not to expect any response from Purvis. I don't. It's about principle. I've registered my displeasure with the BBB, Ford Corporate and Purvis. That will suffice as I chalk this up to a lesson learned.