One interesting tidbit ... I left it with 60.5 mpg on the FCD (over approx 200 miles). I got back and the mpg was down to an even 58.0. Looks like they did some serious charging of the pack in the car.
It is interesting to compare your story (88K and 2months out of warranty...one $300 your cost replacement...18mos life...second replacement and probably a remaining 16 month warranty) and Atikoiv post (122K and 2 months over..."they (Honda) declined"). You have to wonder what the deciding factor(s) are...bought it from a Honda dealer, Orlando verses Washington D.C, 34K miles, your dealer, which customer service rep you get at the 800 number (if you talked to them), all of the above ...?
My opinions are based on this single experience with Honda...and 20 years of experience with BMW.
Every company and even dealer will be different, but if I had walked into the dealer "cold," not having done business with them, I probably would have been politely brushed off.
I also had a nice polite discussion with American Honda, told them how great it was to get any goodwill from a company, etc. and made sure to point out that the dealer has done routine service for me, just the usual treating the people like I would like to be treated.
"You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.
Prov. It is easier to get what you want by flattering people and being polite to them than by making demands."
But, you still have to wonder if there is more to it.
I think one factor is that I purchased my Insight used from a Honda dealer. If I had purchased it off of Craig's list, I doubt that I would have received the same consideration. I think car companies recognize that people expect more from a [insert name of manufacturer] certified vehicle. Keep in mind that I did not purchase this car from Holler Honda where the warranty work has been done, but from a dealer in Sarasota.
FWIW, I was very polite both with Honda of America and with the service writers at Holler Honda. Even though I'm a litigator, I'm extremely courteous (even with opposing counsel from Miami .... southern upbringing I suppose) until someone crosses me. And before someone asks, I never identified myself as an attorney on the phone with Honda or at the dealership, so I don't think that's a factor.
My "first" oil change was done at the Honda dealership in Sarasota while I was visiting relatives in Venice. Good dealership.
I've had warranty work done at the dealership and even with the "turbo" installed, I haven't had a problem. I have never been demanding, just logical and reasonable.
HTH
Willie
__________________
01 MT "Little Red Rocket"
The first "TURBOCHARGED" Hybrid, Insight G1- (01/2003)
MaxIMA Battery (Serial #2), on 8/25/12 @ 301,520 miles
Use: 320,000 mi. @ 57.8 LMPG
My "first" oil change was done at the Honda dealership in Sarasota while I was visiting relatives in Venice. Good dealership.
I've had warranty work done at the dealership and even with the "turbo" installed, I haven't had a problem. I have never been demanding, just logical and reasonable.
HTH
Willie
I'm not sure which dealer you used, but the folks at Wilde Honda in Sarasota are very nice.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
