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  #1  
Old 12-10-2010, 10:12 PM
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sigp220.45 sigp220.45 is offline
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Default Any tips on fighting with GM?

I just picked up our 06 Hummer H3 and dropped off a check for $1134 at the GM dealer.

It has 79,000 miles on it and is out of warranty.

Up until the 07 Model there was a plastic mode fork (or something like that) in the transfer case. In 07 this part was replaced with a metal part due to the tendency of the plastic one to come apart and foul up the transfer case, causing repairs that cost - can you guess? - about $1100. (Most of that is labor).

The dealer confirmed that is what happened to mine. There was never a recall, but a simple Google search shows it is a common problem, and it went away with the implementation of the metal part.

I called GM customer service in the faint hope they would recognize their part in this little saga and either extend the warranty to cover it or at least go 50/50 with me. The dealer indicated the would sometimes do that. After working my way through "Josh" and then "Roy", they told me they wouldn't offer any assistance.

Eleven hundred bucks won't break me, but it sure isn't fun, especially this time of year when I'm trying to make good on Santa's promises.

Any advice?
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Old 12-10-2010, 10:30 PM
m1gunner m1gunner is offline
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Those are high maintenance vehicles anyway, you do not need poorly engineered parts on top of that.

Have you contacted the zone representative for warranty and service? He would be the goto person on this. It would work best to meet FTF at the dealership.

Other areas for you to keep an eye on:

oil lines going to the oil cooler
shift servos in the transmission
ride height motor (air pump?)
in dash 4wd controller

and several others that escape me for now.
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  #3  
Old 12-10-2010, 10:32 PM
ia1727 ia1727 is offline
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Sick the Better Business Bureau on em'--it's worked for me. They really don't like that kind of bad press. GM that is. I certainly wouldn't take it lying down especially if they even once recognized the problem as a faulty part--make sure the Better Business Bureau is aware of that.

Good luck--

Steve
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Old 12-10-2010, 10:52 PM
roarindan roarindan is offline
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bet the next letter you get from them will be in Chinese.
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Old 12-10-2010, 11:18 PM
m1gunner m1gunner is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by roarindan View Post
bet the next letter you get from them will be in Chinese.

That deal fell through.
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  #6  
Old 12-11-2010, 12:01 AM
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GM used to have a Customer Relations or Customer Service phone number, maybe they still do. I think it was more for resolving problems with dealers who are providing poor service, rather than problems with GM itself.

I used it once many years ago, when I was trying to get a Cheverolet repaired under warranty and the dealer wouldn't fix it. After several trips to the dealer to fix the same problem, I called the Customer Service number and described the problem. They told me, "We will take care of it". A few hours later I got a call from the dealer, it was all "I'm sorry sir..., We will fix it right it sir..." . And they really did finally fix the problem.

If they are still around, it might be worth a call. I think the number was in the vehicle manual somewhere.
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  #7  
Old 12-11-2010, 12:05 AM
Old 44 Guy Old 44 Guy is offline
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You guys still buying GM??? Thought that went out with Obama Care.LOL.
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  #8  
Old 12-11-2010, 12:20 AM
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CAJUNLAWYER CAJUNLAWYER is offline
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The Zone manager usually is the one to go to. Do your homework and show him the problems. If all else fails....show him your badge
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  #9  
Old 12-11-2010, 12:31 AM
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Ford is the same way on 50/50 splits nowadays. I've got a 2005 Mustang GT that had the tach go crazy a few months ago. I realized it was out on time as far as warranty, but it only has 36,000 miles on it. I asked about a split on the $400.00 gauge cluster, and was given a resounding NO! I WORK for a Ford dealership parts counter, and was told that Ford not only was cracking down on warranty splits, but an employee was COMPLETELY out of the question. I thought about it a bit, and devised a way to fix the problem for about ten bucks total, and told them later on that I would remember their warranty help when I was scraping up the moolah to buy a new Corvette.
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  #10  
Old 12-11-2010, 01:08 AM
Beemer-mark Beemer-mark is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ia1727 View Post
Sick the Better Business Bureau on em'--it's worked for me. They really don't like that kind of bad press. GM that is.
The BBB used to (and probably still does) have a special phone number for GM. The BBB acts as arbitraitor for cases like this. Do not expect any type of results by talking to anyone connected with GM.
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  #11  
Old 12-11-2010, 01:30 AM
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Search around on the internet to see if GM has issued any Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) on this particular problem. Considering that they changed the part, it's highly likely that there could be several.
TSBs describe both the problem and the fix for it. Its also documented proof that the problem does exist and GM knows about it. If you can call the zone manager and quote the TSB number and its date, you'll have some solid ammo to fight with.
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  #12  
Old 12-11-2010, 02:10 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by sigp220.45 View Post
It has 79,000 miles on it and is out of warranty.
Unless you have had a lot of expense before now on unusual or unexpected maintenance, I don't really see where you have a complaint. As someone pointed out, it is a high maintenance vehicle anyhow. Stuff goes wrong on those types of vehicles. It comes with the territory.
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  #13  
Old 12-11-2010, 06:08 AM
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I'd ask a lawyer about filing suit, charging that they knowingly used a substandard part that failed and offered no help. Maybe a class-action suit would scare them.Or, a local TV reporter.

But will the Bureau be upset if you become involved in a consumer issue at a public level?

You already did one thing: this would make me think twice if I was thinking of buying a GM vehicle. Others may feel the same.
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Old 12-11-2010, 06:25 AM
YogiBear YogiBear is offline
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The Wife had a problem with her Hyundai still within the 10 yr 100,000 mile warranty.

Told her that the throttle body wasn't covered under warranty. NEVER tell a pissed of woman NO.

Her reply in so many words, SHOW ME in Print where it says that or ELSE.

We got 2/3s of what we paid back. It took her 6 weeks or so of "discussions" with the dealer and Hyundai.

Our legal friend said mention RICCO, BBB, TV news Help Line etc.

It was the Wife's show all the way. She had rolled into Battle Axe mode and was in no mood to take prisoners....... She did ALL with very little help from me.

Do your Homework first. Check online, Hummer forum if there is one for more input on the part and what other Hummer owners on the forum did.

Make sure all your paper work is in order.

Did you take the extended warranty? I did on my 06 TrailBlazer, I several years left on mine.
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  #15  
Old 12-11-2010, 07:57 AM
neiljrosen neiljrosen is offline
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That's not how you build consumer confidence. I'm sure you'll remember this when you buy your next vehicle.
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  #16  
Old 12-11-2010, 10:29 AM
The Highlander The Highlander is offline
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I'm having issues with Ford on my F-250 diesel. I'm experiencing a surging issue and my dealer is not able to repair it. In fact, they say it is operating within Ford's parameters. Yet, Ford has a name for the trouble, "trailer-hitching," which is an accurate descriptor for how it feels.

I called the Customer Relationship Center and was told to....."Work it out with my dealer..."

That was sure helpful.

My next Ford will probably be a Dodge.
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  #17  
Old 12-11-2010, 11:06 AM
cussedemgun cussedemgun is offline
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Most states have a consumer protection unit connected with the attorney general's office.

If it were me, I would talk to them;
1) See them in person, not a phone call
2) Go in uniform if possible
3) Try to get them to write a letter for you, on official letter head, suggesting it might be prudent to reconsider
4) Send it to the dealer with foot notes; copy to GM & copy to consumer fraud division

Often threats work best that are unspoken.

Jim
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  #18  
Old 12-11-2010, 11:21 AM
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681ismyfavorite 681ismyfavorite is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by The Highlander View Post
I'm having issues with Ford on my F-250 diesel. I'm experiencing a surging issue and my dealer is not able to repair it. In fact, they say it is operating within Ford's parameters. Yet, Ford has a name for the trouble, "trailer-hitching," which is an accurate descriptor for how it feels.

I called the Customer Relationship Center and was told to....."Work it out with my dealer..."

That was sure helpful.

My next Ford will probably be a Dodge.
i believe the last year (2002?) of the 7.3 International diesel engine was the last year Ford offered a Diesel engine worth a flip.

Dodge cummins mega cab would be my next vehicle if money permitted.
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Old 12-11-2010, 12:38 PM
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Take a look at www.recalls.gov

There are some issues with yours anyway. And you can notify these people as well.
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  #20  
Old 12-11-2010, 12:54 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ia1727 View Post
Sick the Better Business Bureau on em'--it's worked for me. They really don't like that kind of bad press. GM that is. I certainly wouldn't take it lying down especially if they even once recognized the problem as a faulty part--make sure the Better Business Bureau is aware of that.

Good luck--

Steve
I agree re: BBB. Wife leased a Saturn when GM took it over - Car would lose power unannounced and for no apparent reason - Saturn 'fixed' twice - third time I told Saturn my wife was driving an experimental car since it couldn't be fixed and wanted lease DP back and cancel lease. Saturn/GM said they 'never' take lease back or refund lease DP. I wrote to BBB and wife received refund of DP and Saturn terminated the lease. (Complaint didn't even mention the ignition key 3-time failure that they also cou;dn't fix )

Bought GM all my life - but will not buy any GM newer than 1980, preferrably not later than '79, when the last 'real' Cadillacs were built. (Maybe they went to MIM? )
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  #21  
Old 12-11-2010, 01:05 PM
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I had a Chevrolet pick-up truck several years ago that had some problems, the dealer I purchased it from was unco-operative about fixing them. There used to be a step by step process outlined in the back of the owner's manual along with a toll free phone number to call. I called and they made an appointment at my convinience at another dealer, they were very co-operative about repairing the problem. I would try working with GM before resorting to consumer advocates or attorneys. Get names and titles of everyone you talk to and document everything. If you don't get satisfaction ask to speak to a supervisor, be polite yet firm. Good luck.
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Old 12-11-2010, 01:57 PM
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JcMack JcMack is offline
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The H3 uses basically the Colorado chassis and running gear. Do a search for Colorado/Canyon forum. (they're is one but I don't think the mods will let me link it) Maybe you can compare notes. I unfortunately own a Colorado ('08) but it isnt 4wd.
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Old 12-11-2010, 03:32 PM
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I was under the impression that the BBB was a "paper tiger".

About thirty years ago I worked in a lawn/garden store doing small engine mechanic work and sales.

Every now and then we'd get an irate customer that would threaten to call the BBB.

My boss (the store owner) would practically laugh at them and offer to provide them with the phone number...
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Old 12-11-2010, 05:39 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by YogiBear View Post
It was the Wife's show all the way. She had rolled into Battle Axe mode and was in no mood to take prisoners....... She did ALL with very little help from me.
Amen, brother. When my wife pulls off the gloves, all I can do is pity the fool who torqued her off. She's much better at dickering on a car than I am too. The last dealer that we bought a car from (after she let him have his nards back) offered her a job on the spot. Said he needed to have her working on his side. She declined by saying if she wanted to tell lies for a living, she'd run for office. God, I love that woman.
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Old 12-11-2010, 05:49 PM
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BBB Auto Line 800-955-5100

I would highly reccomend you call these folks.

I have a 2008 2500HD. IF I would have known the details of the lemon law in CO, and had filed claim within the first year of having it, GM probably would have had to buy it back.

Unfortunately, I didn't know the law.

Initially I called GM customer assistance, and after probably 3-4 weeks of back and forth phone calls, they ultimately told me to pound sand. They have a huge department (Maybe more than one), that does nothing but string you along, and then tell you to go away. (I think it's the wear you down approach)

It was not until I called and filed claim with the BBB autoline that I got any satisfaction. I can't make any promises they will help you, as I was still within the 3yr/36k "bumper 2 bumper" when I filed, but it may be worth the call/time.
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Old 12-12-2010, 09:19 AM
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I think that all calls to GM are now routed through the White House. This may be the reason for your lack of satisfaction.

By the way, the "Chinese" deal didn't fall through, they just recently couched it as an IPO.
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Old 12-15-2010, 02:03 AM
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I had a great experience with Lincoln. (It is one of many reasons that my next car will also be a Lincoln. I'm on my second now [but only because my wife wrecked the first one!].) The fuel pump went out in the middle of the night, coming back from a new job much further away than my old commute. Unsure of what else to do, I had AAA tow it to my trusted mechanic, and I paid out of pocket. A few months later, the second fuel pump went out. (This was an LS, built on the Jaguar/Thunderbird frame; a great car [mine was V8!], but the fuel pumps were a weak point. I think Jaguar designed that part...) Anyway, that one at least went out in the afternoon on my way to work. Had it towed to the dealership. Told them about my first fuel pump- all they needed was a copy of the receipt, and I got a check in the mail for the full amount- $600 and some change. I bought two more cars from the same dealership- one for my wife, one for my daughter. When I'm treated right, I stick with a good thing!
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Old 12-15-2010, 03:45 AM
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Definately try the zone manager. My friend had a very strange water leak in a 99 Suburban and the only way he got any kind of help was through the zone manager.
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  #29  
Old 12-15-2010, 10:51 AM
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Would a suit filed through your local small claims court work for you?
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