John Jones (@john.johns5141) intended to downsize from his Ford F-150 King Ranch to a sleek Audi S5, but his experience with the Tulsa Genesis dealership turned into a costly and frustrating ordeal. He’s now sharing his story on TikTok, detailing what he believes were unethical practices and undisclosed mechanical issues.
The Allure of German Engineering
Jones sought a smaller vehicle due to rising gas costs and a diminishing need for a large truck. He considered both an Audi S5 and a Kia Stinger, ultimately choosing the Audi because of its superior interior quality and design. “I fell for this car because I wanted something that was a hatchback but still a full size car,” Jones told Motor1.
A Series of Unfortunate Events
Things began to unravel quickly after he arrived at the dealership with a pre-approval from Capital One and a request that his credit not be run. According to Jones, the dealership proceeded to have his credit checked by multiple lenders without his consent. “I never did sign a credit application through them. I never signed off on a credit application.”
This resulted in approximately 15 to 20 hard credit inquiries, negatively impacting his credit score by an estimated 75 to 100 points. Hard credit inquiries are recorded when you actively seek new debt, and can remain on your credit report for two years. Unlike soft inquiries (typically used for promotional offers or credit checks initiated by yourself), hard inquiries can affect your credit score.
Hidden Damage and Extensive Repairs
The issues didn’s stop at credit score damage. After detailing the car, Jones discovered that it had been involved in an unreported accident. The rear driver’s side quarter panel was filled with Bondo, requiring paint correction. Furthermore, he uncovered evidence of another accident, with the passenger side front fender and suspension components replaced. To top it off, the water pump was leaking, and numerous other components—including the oil filter housing, thermostat, coolant bypass valve, vacuum lines, and motor mounts—needed replacement.
The resulting invoice for repairs totaled $8,774.78, with Jones’ out-of-pocket expenses reaching $3,500. He credits an extended warranty for mitigating further financial strain.
A Silent Dealership, a Frustrating Response
Despite initial attempts at resolution with the dealership, communication abruptly ceased. A complaint filed with the Better Business Bureau yielded a delayed response – a curt “You buy the car ‘As-Is,’ we’re sorry.”
Public Opinion Divided
The story has sparked debate online. While some viewers defend the dealership, stating that buyers should perform their own due diligence, others argue that dealerships—as automotive experts—have a responsibility to disclose known issues.
A Connoisseur’s Perspective, a New Engine
Despite the ordeal, Jones remains a fan of the car. “I still love the car and fully intend to keep it, I love driving it and love how I feel every time I get behind the wheel and of course every time I get out of it I have to always look back at it,” he said. Currently, the car is at an Audi dealership undergoing engine replacement due to a manufacturer defect.
Motor1 reached out to Tulsa Genesis for comment but has yet to receive a response. The case highlights the importance of thorough vehicle inspections and transparency in used car transactions
