Texas Autoplex

My grandson and I test drove a 2010 Nissan on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016. In order to obtain insurance on the vehicle, I left a check for a $500 deposit with the owner, Sam Fava, and was to take possession of the car on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2016. I got a cashier's check from my credit union on Thursday and went with my grandson to get the car at Texas Autoplex.

After giving the sales manager the check and signing the paperwork, we went with the sales manager to get the car. Upon locating the vehicle, it was determined that the battery was dead and the car would not start. Since my car was parked close to the Nissan, I volunteered to use my car to jump-start the Nissan. The Nissan started easily but when it started, white smoke poured from the front and back of the car. My heart dropped since I had just turned over a $6200 cashier's check and signed paperwork indicating there was no warranty. We were told that the dealership would have the car checked and notify us of the status. We were also told that all the money (including the deposit) would be returned if necessary.

After numerous calls by my husband to the dealership on Friday, Sept. 30, he was finally able to speak to the sales manager and was told that they would not sale us that vehicle and that someone could come get the cashier's check. They were not able to return the deposit at that time because the owner was out of town and he would be the person who would return that deposit. My husband and I both have called multiple times and spoken to Sam regarding the return of my deposit. Due to health issues, we have not been able to go to the dealership to get my deposit back. I spoke with Sam on Monday, October 31, 2016 to request again that he mail that deposit to me and was told it would be in the mail shortly. A text from Sam on Nov. 7 indicated that I would have the refund by "tomorrow" (that would have been November 8). I have still not received the refund of my deposit.

I realize the deposit is to guarantee that the purchaser does intend to purchase the vehicle and is not returnable in case the purchaser decides against the purchase. In this case however, I think the deposit should be returned.

I have sent a complaint form to TX DMV. I originally was very impressed with this dealership (no pressure to purchase the vehicle or extended warranty) but would definitely not do business with them in the future.

December 27: finally got deposit back so will raise review to 2 stars

These guys will say ANYTHING to make a sale. They sold us a vehicle that couldn't even make it off the lot once they had our money! Worked with THEIR mechanic for 3 days and still couldn't get it operational. Then would not give us a full refund. Misrepresented the condition of the car in the Craigslist ad and verbally on the lot. Their mechanic said there was more wrong with the car than the dealer stated. RUN! DO NOT BUY FROM THESE SHADY SALES PEOPLE! BUYER BEWARE!

Save your money and time search elsewhere. These people sold my girl a lemon they are crooks. Run, run, run!!!!!