Phillips Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram Reviews 30

Jason Graham made our experience with Phillips wonderful. He was attentive and went out of his way to make sure we had the perfect vehicle within our budget.

I made a brand-new purchase of a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Overlander with my family, and I’m extremely disappointed and deeply concerned about how unsafe this vehicle is to drive.
The main issue is a severe glare coming from a mirror or reflective surface on the dashboard, which makes it almost impossible to see clearly through the windshield, especially during midday sunlight or at night under city lights. It’s genuinely dangerous. On many occasions, I’ve had to pull over and stop the car because I simply could not see the road ahead. I even had to ask someone else to drive the car to a safe location.
When my friend brought the car to the dealership, we were told, “It was made that way.” That’s unacceptable for a vehicle in this price range and class. I contacted Jeep Customer Service, and they said they would be happy to fix it if the service center diagnosed it as a problem, but the service center insists that even though it’s a safety hazard, it’s not considered a defect because “that’s how it was built.”
Who builds a car that can’t be driven safely?
Now I’m left with a brand-new vehicle that cannot be safely driven, and Jeep has refused to take responsibility for what is clearly a dangerous design flaw that puts drivers and passengers at risk.
Until Jeep acknowledges and corrects this serious issue, I strongly caution anyone considering purchasing this vehicle. Right now, I don’t know what to do; it’s unsafe to drive, and Jeep won’t help.

Review by Kashia – Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Overlander (2023)

I wanted to leave a 5 star review but.
I was test driving a 2019 Dodge Challenger, dream car material and I find out there are all these higher trim versions. A genuine V8 muscle car in the UK? That'll make up for how disappointing these last 2 years with my neutered mini cooper have been. Top, love it. Then I find out Dodge is going to be stopping the good cars and going with the free from vegan variety cars?

No, Stop, everyone with half a brain knows that the whole movement is based on a lie and when the tax subsidies run out, people aren't going to care to buy engineless cars, they'll be lucky to even afford bread anymore.

Stop it, Dodge, you can rebel against these anti fun liars who're trying to run the world, push back and keep making big mean muscle cars. Big Dodge cars are what Rebels drive, the steeds of the steadfast and you're going to take away them horses and replace it with all soy latte vegan free from plant based meat horses?

You still get 3 stars because I can still buy that Challenger but your new cars are looking bleak after the next year or two, I can't exactly give you 5 stars for the nearly 100 years of good cars you've made if all your new ones will be terrible.

First this is only for the one on blackstone in Fresno and this is dave's wife but my husband can fix vehicles , I've seen him do a complete motor swap (and the motor looks kinda like a brain except huge and metal with these rubber looking hoses coming out of it) sorry I'm bragging but he deserves it and more we've been married 11 year's this coming December but we actually had a little bit of money to spare and he's dealing with graves disease so he was excited to do it but normally he'd never think about taking it anywhere and after this he'd never take it to the dealership again. But he told the guy the problem and drove it there and his guy sent him a text that he found the problem and gave him a pick up time and date and total was like one thousand and 50 bucks click yes or no so Dave clicked yes so on the day he was on his way to pick up our vehicle he called them and was told the original guy was sent home because his wife had covid and you need a new transmission the total is 4 thousand and 50 bucks well we barley had enough to pay what he clicked yes on which you can't see it like right after you click yes or no but Dave ended up telling the guy no because we didn't have the money but it cost a thousand and 50 just to get it towed out of there (we used our last row on AAA) and I made him file a complaint with the bar and they came back with 450.00 I'm thinking this is bull crap we paid more to get it out . And also the only person that helped him put the transmissions in the back of the Jeep because Dave told him don't put it in their (he meant in the engine) was a girl that worked the counter but this is a really big transmission and I thought it was rude. How come the bar can't even get what we spent from them when they didn't even let us know there was a change,they just thought we had the money. now I'm going to take them and the bar to court .

I have a 2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with approximately 53000 miles (85,000 km). I had two issues that were bothering me (3 if you count a Small nail in a tire).

Problem 1) The big issue was that my transmission was shifting hard from 3rd to 4th gear. I had an OBD-II Code P0732 which is defined as a Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio. I spent many hours researching the problem myself before thinking I need to take it in for a professional opinion. My research and feeling was that there was either a communication error or a hydraulic problem. There are many possible causes according to different diagnostic websites. I took it to Phillip's thinking that this may be just a simple thing that every Jeep owner goes through and the answer would be obvious.

Problem 2) I have been fighting an evap leak for some time, as every off-road Jeep owner in the world has done. Apparently my little smoke machine just didn't have enough pressure to make the leak obvious. I asked them to smoke test it and tell me where the leak was.

The price for these diagnosis would be $130.00. This was honored.

That afternoon I was told that my transmission had internal failure and that a remanufactured transmission would be $6400 plus tax. I'm not sure if that included labor, nor did I find out. They said between the error code and the smell of the burnt fluid that that was the diagnosis.

The smoke test showed a leak on top of the gas tank and the tank would need to be lowered to inspect further.

Tire repaired

I really felt like they didn't try very hard to find the actual problems. I thought that they would at least drop the pan and look for some signs of unusual or excessive wear, or take it for a test drive but no, that was not done. No further diagnostics, the transmission needed replacing.

As for the gas tank needing to be lowered, I do not see the need. Without having the Jeep on a lift I can maneuver around enough to see every hose and fitting on the gas tank. I’m sure lowering the tank would be much more comfortable but at what price? Again, I just wanted the leak found.

Feeling that something was overlooked, I asked an acquaintance that works mainly on Jeep modifications for some advice. A transmission shop was recommended and I called. The front man at the transmission shop advised me that they could give a second opinion as they were a repair shop, not a replace shop. There was no signs of excessive wear, the fluid may have smelled a little burnt, but not more than would have been consistent with some recent slippage. They kept me informed through the entire process and found a problem in the valve body. I had them put a rebuild kit in the valve body as advised.

I have run the Jeep for several hundred miles and the problem has not resurfaced at all. The harsh shift is completely gone. This for $877.00 which included diagnosis, labor, parts, fluid... everything!

I called the service manager at Phillips and let him know that I felt they gave an unfair diagnosis and asked for my $130 to be refunded. He checked with his technician and investigated the diagnosis. The reply came back that the diagnostic tree that was followed, and with the code that was given, it called for a transmission replacement. I said that I felt they didn’t do enough because they didn’t drop the pan or do a test drive. I was told that there was a test drive done, yet the mileage in/out is exactly the same. I was told that could have been the service advisor not putting the mileage in until the vehicle was checked out, but the service advisor seemed pretty diligent at getting all the information punched in when I arrived.

In the end I was told that the “Chrysler way” is to follow the diagnostic tree and that the diagnosis was fair. A new transmission would have solved the problem. When I asked about the smoke test and said I that all the hoses and connections are visible from different points, I was told that the Chrysler way is to lower the tank to make a good diagnosis.

THE TIRE REPAIR! The tire was repaired, the price for a patch was fair at $29.00. On the drive home the low tire warning light came on. The tire was filled to 31 lbs which triggers my tpms. The inflation pressure on my tires is 37lbs as indicated on the door sticker. The tire was fixed properly, I have not lost any pressure since. (My sarcastic wife laughed because the one thing they did fix, I had to finish the job)

I want to say that DODGE cars are good and people shouls really start to see something in their new models. Something must really be done for whatever reason out there. How else do you plan to go out with such ? I do not really see where it's happening there.... too sad.

I love my challenger. No regrets

Great car! Hit the brick on the parking lot and damaged the part but it was easily fixable thank to the way car was built. Next car will definitely be Jeep again!

This dealership does NOT deserve your time or business! Their unethical (slimy) operations will make your attempt to purchase a vehicle an absolute nightmare. Not only are their operations horrific and unethical, their customer service is extremely disappointing particular in working with John Cherry, General Manager, and Arnold Phipps, Sales Manager. Take your business elsewhere and save the frustration and disappointment. Please see the below letter sent to them outlining the experience I had.

June 3, 2016
Phillips Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
3440 S Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Attn: John Cherry, General Manager

Mr. John Cherry,
First, I’d like to provide some feedback on your employee, Steven Pelnar, as I cannot say enough positive things about him. Steven was transparent, respectful, personable, and honest; you should be proud to have him as a member of your sales team as I am sure he is a valuable asset to your success.
Wednesday evening I found a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee on your website. This vehicle had everything I was looking for and was the perfect price. Thursday morning, and throughout the day, I had been in communication with Jessica via telephone. She knew that I was planning to leave work early and make the drive to the dealership from Jacksonville in hopes that the vehicle mirrored the online photos, and that I would be making a cash purchase. Around 4:45pm I spoke with Steven, who let me know that he was looking forward to seeing me. At 6:50pm my mother and I arrived; we were greeted by Steven, who immediately informed us that there was a lady at the dealership who was extremely interested in purchasing the vehicle but was waiting on her husband. Steven communicated that he told her he had some customers coming from Jacksonville to view the same vehicle. For simplicity purposes, I am going to reference the other buyer as Sally. Steven also informed us that the great price I saw online was in fact an error, and the car was going to be marked up about $5,000. However, he would honor the online price should we make the purchase, which was commendable. It was at this time that my mother asked if Sally had begun the process of purchasing, and Steven replied “No”. He informed us that we essentially had the first right of refusal on the vehicle. I took it on a very brief test drive and before even exiting the vehicle informed Steven that he had a deal and to begin the paperwork. Steven proceeded to shake my hand followed by “Congratulations”.
Once I finished taking some photos of what I thought was my new vehicle, I headed into the office to begin the paperwork. It was at this time that Steven approached with the news that “While we were on the test drive, Sally signed a buyer’s order. They are waiting to hear back from the bank, but if she accepts the terms, then the vehicle is hers.” As you can imagine Mr. Cherry, this led to immense disappointment. Of course, Sally accepted the terms and there went my dream vehicle, which I thought was mine. This led me to believe that the consultant and operations in the dealership are extremely unethical. How could one sales consultant put legal document in front of Sally, while the other potential buyers (and their sales consultant) were on a test drive? I told myself “He probably said ‘quick, sign this before she gets back and it’s yours.”
Disappointed and frustrated, my mother and I requested to speak with a manager. Upon meeting Mr. Arnold Phipps, the already poor experience took a nose dive for the worst. It was very difficult to explain my perception and experience to Mr. Phipps without being interrupted with “young lady…”. Honestly speaking Mr. Cherry, both my mother and I felt very threatened when Mr. Phipps stood up to look down upon us, portrayed very disrespectful facial expressions including heavy eye rolls, and would not give us the slightest moment to justify why I told him that he was unethical and his operations were appalling. As he continued with his body language and communication I thought “I bet he wouldn’t be doing this if my husband was here.” Giving him the benefit of the doubt, I kept that to myself.
Mr. Phipps informed me and my mother that Sally had in fact signed the agreement before we even arrived at the dealership. I asked him “Why didn’t you call us and tell us the vehicle sold as you knew we were on our way from Jacksonville? Why did you let me take it on a test drive? Why was I told that I had the right of first refusal? Why was I told that the vehicle was mine?” With no response by Mr. Phipps, I followed with “So you’re telling me that Steven knew the vehicle was sold, and purposefully did this?” I was then told that he was not sure what happened. Mr. Cherry, I understand that this is a business and that there was a buyer wanting to make a purchase (Sally), but as a customer willing to pay $28,000 in cash, wanting to give you my money, the lack of respect is what I do not understand.
My previously mentioned theory of Mr. Phipps having a better attitude if my husband was around was proven correct when he attempted to make the analogy “Young Lady, if you were going to buy a wedding dress would you expect to be told ‘that dress has been promised to someone who is on their way in, if they don’t want it, then you may purchase it’?” Yes, Mr. Phipps, I would. I would expect, and respect the stores operations for not only doing the right thing, but for having great customer service.
At this point, Mr. Phipps had made zero effort; he did not recommend we look at other vehicles on the lot, nor did he ever simply apologize. I then was ready to leave, teary-eyed, disrespected, frustrated, shocked, and extremely disappointed. It wasn’t until my mother went back inside to speak with Steven about looking at other vehicles of yours did Mr. Phipps put forth any effort to make this a positive experience. It was like a light bulb went off in his head when he said “Oh, yes, I will take $4,000 of any vehicle no problem, or we will find you one.” Unfortunately, I am hard pressed to believe that Mr. Phipps word is valuable as it is now close of business on Friday and I have yet to have been contacted by your team.
Mr. Cherry, whether there was a miscommunication in that Steven was not informed that the vehicle was not available, or that all ethical operations went out the window by processing Sally’s paperwork while I was on a test drive, or maybe even I was being used as a ‘back-up’ option if Sally did not move forward, what happened was wrong. Currently, I feel responsible to let potential buyers know of this. However, I wanted to first speak with you and let you know that I would welcome the opportunity to still give you business, in hopes that you would find a replacement vehicle. While you and your team might view this situation as minor, and think that I am just one customer lost, I can assure that continuation of poor customer service, disrespect, and unethical operations will lose you much more than just one customer.

Was great great experience and they took the time to answer all my questions

We were helped quickly, everyone was happy and helpful. The credit dept. mr. Roberts, went the extra mile to help us. The salesman, Todd truly was a blessing to us, so helpful and pleasant, also went the extra mile to take good care of us.

Thank you! We are so happy with our purchase.

Enjoyed dealing with Phillips Chrysler.

Ever since our first purchase from Phillips CJDR Bill Stickley is our first and last stop when we're in the market for a new car. Part of the reason for that is the great deal we always get - but the thing that really keeps us coming back is the support and service during and after the sale that Mr. Stickley provides. Bill has well earned our business, along with our trust & loyalty. Thanks so much for all you've done over the years to earn that trust & loyalty Bill!

I have never been happier with a dealership. Will was awesome and a pleasure to deal with. We have told many friends, family and strangers about your dealership in Ocala. Will was very professional and knowledgeable about the Jeep we chose. Couldn't be happier. Thank you,, Kay McBride..

Nice inventory of vehicles, good salesman, quick paperwork,

The transaction was easy and fun to drive off in my new Jeep!

We looked for a truck that would fll our needs, and we found it at Phillips. Great staff, accommodating service and an overall gut Philips made buying a new truck a good experience. No-one likes to go through this, but this process was more than tolerable. We are happy with this dealership and the buying experience. Thanks you, SK, for the positive time we spent at Phillips.

I was in the market, and they went the extra mile to help me get the vehicle I wanted.

This is my fourth RAM vehicle, and I'm a solid repeat customer. After searching on the internet via the RAM website, I located a vehicle close to me preferences. I consulted with them and the sales team worked it all out, so I took delivery in the local dealership.

The guys are all great... With a ready smile. Very professional, I was in and out in less time than estimated

Based on the service they provided on my Dodge Van, I decided to check out the sales area for my new van. Not only did they beat any other dealer in the area or as far away as Orlando, my salesperson was absolutely low preasure and helpful.