Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/29/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This dealership call austite auto sales did a fraud on my account. They stole my money amount $3700 and I didn't get anything from them ?? I just went my money back the address ******************************** phone number ************

  Business Response

  Date: 05/30/2025

  We are writing in response to the complaint submitted by Mr. ******** in which he alleges fraudulent activity and claims that $3,700 was stolen from him. We take such allegations seriously and wish to clarify the facts to ensure full transparency and accuracy.
  
  
  Mr. ******* purchased a vehicle from our dealership on April 19, 2025, and provided an initial down payment of $3,000, followed by a deferred down payment and an additional payment made the following day. At the time of purchase, Mr. ******* signed a Motor Vehicle Finance Contract, along with all associated sales documentation.
  
  
  As part of the financing agreement, Mr. ******* was required to maintain full-coverage insurance with a $500 deductible, naming our dealership as the lienholder at all times. Mr. ******* provided what appeared to be a valid insurance policy at the time of sale. However, upon verifying with the insurance company on May 5, we were informed that although the policy was active, our dealership had been removed as the lienholderan explicit violation of the contract terms.
  
  
  Following this discovery, we contacted Mr. ******* on May 5 to notify him of this issue and followed up via text on May 7, requesting confirmation that the lienholder had been correctly updated. There was a delay on the customers part in addressing this matter.
  
  
  On May 20, we were notified that ********************** policy was scheduled for cancellation due to nonpayment. We promptly reached out to him again via text and phone call to inform him of this breach of contract and urged him to reinstate his coverage. On May 21, having received no response and confirming that the policy had indeed lapsed, we were forced to proceed with repossession, as permitted under the terms of the contract.
  
  
  Importantly, our message to Mr. ******* was marked as read on his iPhone, indicating receipt and awareness. Despite this, he failed to take corrective action or respond to our communications.
  
  
  This situation does not constitute fraud, nor does it involve unauthorized charges. Mr. ******* made voluntary payments toward the vehicle he purchased. The issue stems solely from his failure to comply with the contractual requirement to maintain insurance coverage with our dealership listed as lienholder.
  
  
  Mr. ******* has been informed multiple timesby phone, text, and a formal letterabout the steps necessary to redeem his vehicle. While he has contacted us, he has not followed through with the process. It is our understanding that he has chosen not to pursue recovery of the vehicle.
  
  
  We would like to emphasize that refunds are not issued in cases where the terms of the finance agreement have been violated. The repossession was conducted in accordance with the contract Mr. ******* signed, and we remain available should he choose to fulfill the necessary conditions to reclaim the vehicle.
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/30/2025

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Regards,
  
  **** *******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/01/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I bought a 2013 ****** Outback march 21st. They told me the car was good to drive home and would pass emissions.Once I signed the contract and paid they told me I needed to put something called deet for the catalytic converter so I can pass emissions test for the title.The check engine light turns on as Im leaving the car lot. I let them know they said the deet should help. It didnt. 3 days later Im driving on the highway with my kids and the parking brakes turns on out of nowhere the brakes slam and we are going 65 on the highway we all get tugged by our seatbelts and our kids are scared bc we are on the highway. I am stuck for about 10 minutes trying to get it off so we can get off the highway and not get hurt.I told the dealership they told me to drop the car off. I dropped the car off April 9th for repairs. I hear nothing for 2 weeks. I call and call no answer. I went in to get some kind of answers and they ignore me for 20 minutes helping 2 men that walked in the door before even greeting me. I told them I needed their help that I feel ignored. They finally let me talk to their General manager ***. I tell him my concerns he says they will change the catalytic converter and the parking brake. I asked him if we could postpone my first car note of 340 since Ive never had the car for more than 5 days he says okay. I get a text yesterday April 31st saying I need to make the payment for the car I let them know the situation. Again nobody has told me the car is fixed what the did to make things safe for my family. So I ask and he gets frustrated saying Im prolonging this situation and gives me a final option of paying the remaining 1800 for the car today or he will pay me 3000 for trade in value for my car. He said nothing was wrong with the parking brake and I feel very unsafe in my car. I asked if he can just give me my money back for it since we feel unsafe and he said no.

  Business Response

  Date: 05/03/2025

  On March 21, 2025, we sold a 2013 ****** Outback to Courtney ********. The vehicle was purchased as a cash sale, and we extended a courtesy payment plan allowing the customer to pay the remaining balance in four installments over the next 4 months.
  
  Subsequently, the customer returned the vehicle, reporting that the brakes had engaged unexpectedly while driving on the highway. While we do not dismiss the concern, this issue could not be replicated during multiple days of testing at our service facility. At no cost to the customer, we replaced the catalytic converters and ensured the vehicle passed the Texas state emissions inspection.
  
  As a resolution, we offered the customer two options: continue making the final payments, or return the vehicle for a buyback amount of $3,000, less the remaining balance owed. The customer chose to retain the vehicle and proceed with completing her payments. Despite this resolution and her apparent satisfaction at the time, we later received a formal complaint regarding the same issue.
  
  The customer received a call from our General Manager informing her that the vehicle had been repaired and was ready for pickup. We extended a ***** period to allow her time to make the past-due payment. Despite this, the vehicle remained on our lot for approximately one week without any communication from the customer regarding payment or pickup.
  
  Eventually, the customer retrieved the vehicle and chose to proceed with her payment. At that time, she expressed satisfaction with the resolution provided.
  
  At this time, the vehicle title has already been transferred, and we are currently awaiting the arrival of the license plates, registration sticker, and title by mail. The customer has a small remaining balance on the vehicle. As she elected to complete the payment plan rather than proceed with the buyback option, that resolution remains in effect on our end.
  

  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/06/2025

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Regards,
  
  ******** ********

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/28/2025

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On January 17th, I purchased a vehicle from Austinite Auto Sales, a 2014 ****** XV Crosstrek. Issues began to occur that were not present during the test drive; an immediate issue was heard from the rear suspension. I took the car to ***************** for a more thorough inspection, and they discovered leaks in engine components in addition to critical suspension components in need of replacement. These can affect the driveability, so *** at Austinite was contacted. His response was to downplay the report and accuse both the ****** tech and service advisor of dramatizing the situation, though he did state he would review the tech's findings, which were forwarded to him via email. Further attempts to contact Austinite have failed, as the calls go direct to voicemail and there has been no attempt to reciprocate contact. In short, I was sold a vehicle with drivetrain and powertrain components that are not far from failure. The requested resolution is that Austinite repair these critical issues, lest I be forced to involve the state. As evidence, here are the technician's reports, with documents attached:********************************************************************************************************* ********************************************************************************************************

  Business Response

  Date: 01/28/2025

  We did respond to the customer regarding the report provided to him by another dealership attempting to earn his business. We explained that the only significant issue we could identify was the front-end vibration, which we were willing to inspect and address at his expense. However, given the age and mileage of the vehicle, we believe it is in good condition overall.
  

  Additionally, we reminded the customer that the vehicle was sold under an "AS IS" agreement, which was clearly disclosed and marked on the windshield before purchase. As a high-volume dealership selling hundreds of vehicles, it is not feasible to inspect every detail of every car. Therefore, we provide customers with the opportunity to thoroughly inspect and test the vehicle before making any purchasing decision.

  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/28/2025

  Complaint: 22866065
  
  I am rejecting this response because: the issues are critical with engine and suspension components on the verge of a catastrophic breakdown. And I have received no such email or return call.  If Austinite is unwilling to effect the necessary repairs, then the other options are to either have the deal unwound and the vehicle w/reimbursement for tires and sensors plus diag fees, or involvement of the state's AG.  Any further opportunities to earn my business have been lost as a result of the dealership's failure to ensure a vehicle that is safe to drive. 
  

  "As-Is" is zero excuse to sell a vehicle that is unsafe to drive.  
  
  Regards,
  ***** *****

  Business Response

  Date: 01/29/2025

   The vehicle was in a clearly safe condition to drive, and the complainant personally test-drove it before making a purchase decision. Additionally, I will upload the Texas state inspection report, which was completed prior to the sale, confirming that the vehicle passed all required inspections, including emissions testing in ****** Countyan emissions-regulated county. I will also upload our agreement to sell the car in AS IS condition with no warranty.

  
  We fully complied with all state of Texas and *** regulations before completing the sale.

  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/23/2024

  Type:Sales and Advertising Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I bought a car from this place and was listed as good working condition. I have only had it not even two weeks and it already broke down and cant use it. Im probably about to spend a lot of money fixing something that should have been at least checked before selling to people. I bought the car based on the condition and the that it actually works and is safe. This was not safe. I stalled in the middle of the highway. I could have been in a bad accident because of it.

  Business Response

  Date: 11/04/2024

  Customer brought car in for us to service. She has been assisted. 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/27/2024

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On August 24th, 2024 Me and My roommate who uses the preferred name of *** went to purchase a vehicle from austinite Auto sales. We test drove it and purchased the vehicle around 12pm and before 4pm that day the car was smoking on the side of the road. It was towed back to the dealership and they let us know they'd get back to us Monday. On Monday they let us know the engines failed and they sent it back the ******* and that they had some vehicles in mind to swap it for. We agreed to test drive one and took it to a mechanic during our test drive around 5:10pm . Which was meineke auto care center near ***********. They let us know the car had a flat tire and blow back meaning the engine would likely fail same as the last vehicle they had given us. We returned back to the dealership at 5:45pm and the doors were locked and the general manager *** nowhere to be found. We deposited the keys with a mechanic who works in the connected shop he was also surprised as the hours for the business say they don't close til 6pm. We after trialing two separate vehicles that both have failed or failing engines asked for a refund due to the fact we don't have the original car makeing it a breach of contract on their end and they refused. We believe this business is scamming people including ourselves with faulty used vehicles that could be dangerous to drive as well as taking money without providing the goods promised. As if Tuesday August 27th we have no vehicle and no refund.

  Business Response

  Date: 08/27/2024

  all vehicles sold at austinite auto that are under 10k, are sold AS IS with no warranty. This car was test driven and was up to the customer standers at the time of sale, therefore they purchased it. It was returned to us with a bad engine, a locked engine that we did not cause. This could have happened for many reason, as simple as manufacture defect or misuse of vehicle. We responded by sending this car to the manufacturer to check for defects and offered to exchange the car for equal or greater value. There will be no refunds on this transaction as per signed contract the customer agreed to an AS IS, we attempted to work with this customer but they seem unreasonable and broke our policy rules by taking a car to a shop with out permission from our us. The assessment of this shop has been proven wrong as the2013 ******* sonata offered to them has a brand new engine from the manufacturer with warranty on it still. We have sold cars to thousands of happy customers. customers should use reason when buying cars under 6k, unfortunately this customer is not very reasonable therefore there is no further resolution that we have at this time.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/15/2023

  Type:Sales and Advertising Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Austinite Auto Sales ********************************************* ********************* 1. Austinite Auto Sales advertised a Vehicle as "By owner" and I called them, not knowing that they were a dealer and they set up an appointment for me to see the car. (They don't answer their ********** published cell phones, as Austinite Auto Sales, they answer them acting like a private party.) 2. I came to the location and saw that it was a car dealer, and because I needed a car badly, I went in to talk to the dealer, ***************** about a 2012 VW Passat that he advertised on ********** as "By Owner" with no engine light or any warning lights". The car was immaculate and I purchased it.3. Two or three days later the engine light came on and I went to AutoZone to see what the issue was and they said the reason the light was not on when I purchased it was because the monitors were "Reset". Their comment was, " I bet you bought this from a crooked used car dealer."4. I texted Austinite Auto Sales and asked them if they knew the monitors were reset and of course they said they never do that ?5. I asked them for a reasonable reimbursement for the issue or to take the car back or fix it. 6. Austinite Auto Sales refused a reasonable reimbursement for the issue or to take the car back or fix it. 7. They continue to advertise their cars under "By Owner", I have flagged them, told them not to do it, because it is deceptive, and they continue to do this.8. They reset monitors and deceive the public claiming "No engine/warning lights", but when you drive it 100 miles the engine/warning lights come back on.Regards,************************* ************

  Business Response

  Date: 03/08/2023

  Customer came to our dealership three times total prior to purchasing the *********** He came to look at a Buick one week prior that he ended up passing on. He came back to look at the ********** that he ended up liking. He test drove the vehicle and stated he was interested in purchasing. The ** also gave him a $300 discount off the price because he was ready to buy the car in full even though he ended up coming back a week later to pay for it. He didnt have the full amount to pay for the vehicle so he put a deposit on the vehicle and came back a week later to finalize. He signed all the paperwork and we gave him copies of everything. He also got a copy of the state inspection that was brand new that we recently did on the Passat. Per ***** law any car that is diesel powered which this car is, it has to pass safety inspection. The car did pass and we provided that copy to him for his records. His claim that he didnt know we were a dealership selling the vehicle is not true. Especially since he came to our dealership multiple times. After the paperwork was done, he then sat in our office for over 30 minutes and spoke to the general manager about how he worked for ACV auctions for over 20 years. Hes very familiar with the auto industry and familiar with vehicles. ******** claims he asked for reimbursement on repairs however he never stopped by or asked us for any reimbursement. Any mention of reimbursement was sprinkled in with the multiple threats that he sent via text. what he did do was act inappropriate towards staff and was extremely aggressive when speaking to us which we have text messages documenting his threats. He did state that he would put us out of business and told us to lawyer up. He did threaten us multiple times on multiple occasions. The threats started around January 2023. He also spoke to an employee via phone call and he screamed at her on the phone and threatened her with legal action. He dont all anyone to be aggressive towards staff  and any threats that get relayed to the business especially when someone says and I quote from customer text message I know almost every franchise dealer principal independent dealer owner. *** worked in ***** for over 20 years and worked with auto trader ACV auctions I know all of them. If I pursue a case it will put you out of business Im sure you know because I have your dead to rights on fraud. We stop all communication and we do not engage in anyone that is aggressive and friends the business.  The few responses that we gave him after he threatened the business were cordial. 
  
  
  At that point we no longer had any communication with this individual. 
  What appears to be happening is this individual no longer got responses from us so they are trying every possible way to threaten us but we refuse to engage in this behavior