Subaru Customer Comments
addressed to Joe Spitz
what buyers of Outback, Forester, WRX, Sti, Legacy, Tribeca, Impreza,
RS have to say
Thank you
to all who have sent letters and emails!
Some letters have been edited for brevity
or spelling etc.
*********************************
Dear Joe, I had a wonderful drive back
to Minnesota in my very quiet, very comfortable, very good mileage new
Forester. Thank you so much for all your help - I love my new car and the
buying experience was perfect. Sincerely, JP, 09 Forester Premium, April
08
Hello, Joe, Thanks for checking
in. The car is wonderful, and the engine is powerful. Just wish I had a
bigger glove box or a smaller manual :) Also thanks for your good
and efficient service when I bought the car. RS, 08 Outback, March
2008, Microsoft
Joe,
Just wanted to send a note to say thanks
for all the help in procuring our new Tribeca. Through the use of your
extensive web site and personal instructions things have gone very smoothly
and our vehicle is registered, licensed and driving us around. At the border
and insurance agent I met a couple of people who were not as fortunate
in receiving accurate and detailed instructions from their vendors and
who were having troubles or delays with the rigmarole of importing. I was
able to offer a friendly hint based on your advice to us.
Love the vehicle and look forward
to many years of care free driving. Love comments like ‘it’s gorgeous!
I want one’ – referred to you of course.
Have a great Christmas! Chuck and Jennifer
B, BC, Canada, (Dec. 4, 07)
Dear Joe
Just to let you know that I have my car
and it looks really good. I drove back from Toronto yesterday. It is a
comfortable car to drive and it is the right size: it corners very well
and has lots of pick up and go. In short a happy customer. The shipping
and customs stuff went without a hitch and was relatively inexpensive.
Regards, Tom H., Forester X, (Canada,
Oct 2007)
Joe, For your information I've got inspection
notice ( Form 2) yesterday via e-mail, only three days after border crossing,
and I sent my wife to Canadian tire today
for inspection. My insurance agent came
to my house to do the paper work. All done and I've completed the process.
Thanks, Dan K, September 07
"I just got through with importing a new
2007 Subaru Forester into Canada and I was really happy with the results
so I thought I would share my experience. Granted, I think I got somewhat
lucky and hit it at the right time (the 2008 Forester's are being sold
in the US now so they are clearing out 2007's plus I hit on a $2000 factory
rebate).
In the end, after every last expense I
had to pay to get the car imported, inspected and insured, I saved literally
25% (everything converted to Cdn) off the price of buying the same new
vehicle from a dealership here in Vancouver. Ridiculous but true. Of course,
this percentage hinges a lot on the current strength of the Cdn dollar
so keep that in mind. I was quite skeptical going in but ended up very
happy with the result. My starting point was a website I found at http://www.cars101.com/,
which has an entire section on how to import to Canada that is quite up-to-date
and accurate. The site is run by a guy named Joe Spitz. He's the guy I
dealt with directly. Joe was quite a breath of fresh air to deal with..."
July 1, 2007 read the full
posting
Joe, we just got home this afternoon.
We used the break in schedule and got 33 mpg the first 500 miles. Then
we hit mountains and it dropped a little. The whole 1620 miles averaged
31 mpg, including two days in Vegas. So, I'm happy with the purchase. Handles
superbly, and has great pick up from all speeds. Thanks for your courtesy,
it was a pleasure doing business. I'll fill out the Subaru survey when
it comes, and I've already given recommendations to a few folks. Thanks
again, Chuck, 08 Legacy, 5/07
Hi Joe, I just wanted to reported back
to you that our drive back to Edmonton, AB was great in our new Outback.
The border crossing was hassle free as I followed your instructions.
The car gave great gas milage, the trip computer showed 26.9MPG.
And this was driving relatively fast, averaging 70-85 mph through the mountains.
Since I got back, there have been a lot of interest from my co workers
and families, so you may be getting a few more calls from up here.
I have also posted my experience with you and Carter Subaru at the following
site, hopefully you will get a few more Alberta and British Columbia customers..."
LH, May 30 2007
You are correct Joe - found the owners
manual and the outside temp display - very cool! My daughters love
it too which they never thought they'd say about a Subaru. Subaru
has always been 'my car' (this is the 4th model I've owned) but they're
sold on this one...Thanks again...WP, Alaska, 3/07 (07 Outback Ltd sedan)
Dear Joe, Everything went smoothly,
my daughter has her new Suraru wagon and is delighted with it. The
only small hitch was when the young lad who picked
up the car from you couldn't figure out
how to turn off the running lights. One phone call fixed that. Again,
let me thank you for your exceptional help in helping me to arrange
for importing the car into Canada. You went way beyond what you were
responsible for and I thank you for you kindness and attention. If
anyone
I hear of wants a new Subaru, I will for
sure send them to you with the strongest recommendation I can. Best regards,
JS, Legacy GT, Alberta, Ca. (07 GT wagon) 2/2007
Joe, The car (07 GT sedan) is nice
and I am really happy with it. Thanks for making it so easy, if I
have any questions I won't hesitate to call. I.S. 2/2007
Hi Joe: Love the car. Need to put
the kibosh on the DVD player as A (daughter) and one of her friends “made”
me wait in a parking space while they watched the end of The Sound of Music.
. . The power of two six year olds with a remote should never be
overlooked. The puddle lights are very cool. I do need to follow up on
the pedal extenders since I am so short but I feel very safe driving the
Tribeca—driving a “modern” vehicle is quite lovely. Cheers,
A&R P., Tribeca with DVD, Navigation, 8/06
Hi Joe, We're home now; it was a
smooth ride from Carter Subaru. We like our new Legacy Limited a lot. Thank
you. CL, East Wa, 07 Legacy 2.5i Limited sdn 7/06
Joe, the car is wonderful! I am so enjoying
driving it back and forth to work....I need to find a different place to
go, I think. Thank you for making it very easy on Sunday. We will let you
know if there are any issues, but so far, so good. Again, thanks. SB, 06
Outback LL Bean, 6/06
The STI is wonderful. It is a very
powerful car, and I now understand your repeated encouragement to drive
with care. It is very easy to get to irresponsible speeds in this
car. I am taking my time with (son) Martin in the car and we are
enjoying the drive back home. Thanks again for everything.
BL, 2006 STI, Edmonton, Canada, 5/2006
PS. a few days later: My worst mileage
stretch was shade under 25 mpg, while I logged a solid 28 mpg (!) between
Vancouver and Kamloops.
Hi Joe, The car is great,
I love it. I plan on reading the manual and I"ll call with questions!
Thanks, JB, 2006 Outback, April 2006
The car is excellent! The more I drive
it, the more I like it. I'm getting used to the size difference between
it and my motorbike manuevering around town, and got it out on the highway
this weekend for a run up to Snoqualmie. That model was definitely the
right choice for me. Thank you again for your help, and for making it so
simple.
Keith, 2006 Outback 2.5i Limited,
2/06
Joe, I just wanted to thank you for a
very enjoyable car purchasing experience. Living up in Everett I had many
options for car dealerships makes and models. My research really paid off.
From what I had found out in all my Internet surfing, Carter Subaru is
one of the best dealerships in the state. I can now verify that. The car
is awesome. It has turn my commute from being a real pain to a great pleasure.
The car handled beyond my expectations driving home tonight in the heavy
rain. The automatic transmission makes the stop and go freeway driving
bearable. I put in one of my favorite CD's, turned on the heated seat and
my stress levels went down to zero. All my friends and family were very
impressed, made allot of then jealous. Again thanks for all your help.
Also just wanted to let you know your web site cars101.com was a great
resource. Thanks, MJ, Everett, Wa 1/06
Hello Joe Spitz, John and I just wanted
to let you know that we rec'd our new Forester this week and everything
was as expected, and we are very happy with the car and the service that
we have rec'd from you. Thank you for helping us to buy our new Subaru
without stress and worry. Now I'm just concerned about Augustine volcano,
which is erupting right now. I do have my tarp ready though to cover my
new car, haha. Thanks so much, J and JL, Anchorage, Alaska 1/06
Joe, Thank you for your phone call the
other day. The car is great. I am slowly breaking it in. It is a dream
to drive. Thanks for the photos as well. My parents were happy to see I
choose a good car. Honestly, I was not looking forward to the car buying
experience especially after my experience at another dealer, however you
made it a pleasure. Thank you for listening to me and finding exactly what
I was looking for. You helped make this experience excellent and I appreciate
your help.
Thanks again, MR, Impreza 2.5i wagon,
Seattle, 1/06
To Canada
http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3822
http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24153
Joe, Thank you so much for making my car
purchase easy and worry free. I was completely satisfied that I was getting
the best possible deal with no strong-armed sales
"tactics"... and best of all, I am thrilled
with my '06 Subaru Outback. Sincerely, Kendra, Seattle, WA 12/05
Kendra
and her furry friend, 12/05
Hi Joe, The car arrived today here in
Juneau. I went and picked it up this afternoon. It looks great. Thanks
for all your help! LR, 2006 Legacy SE wagon, Juneau, Alaska 10/05
Hi Joe, Thank you very much for everything.
I was careful with my drive and I followed your advice. After one hour
drive in the WRX wagon, I had no doubt that this is a great handling and
performing car. Your photos captured a great day! I wanted to take
the opportunity and thank you for making this transaction so smooth and
great. As a fellow auto sales person I have to compliment you for your
performance, punctuality, thoroughness and integrity. These qualities are
unfortunately diminishing in most businesses and people like you give "customer
service" a true definition. It was my pleasure to do business with you
and I greatly appreciate everything you did.
Best Regards, MH, in Oregon, 10/2006
Joe, thanks for the great deal on the
2006 Outback. It looks and drives great, no buyers remorse from me. I appreciate
the time you took to show me the car and make the deal. I will definitely
recommend you to folks I know looking for a Subaru. ER, 2006 Outback, 9/05
Hi Joe, After a week of driving
the Tribeca and just past the 1000 miles, we love it. My wife's been driving
all over and loving it. She seems to be running around for errands all
the time. Fortunately she is out of town a lot (Flight Attendant) so I
get to drive when she is not around. The handling is amazing. I haven't
read the manuals but plan to do it this weekend. I also need some cleaning
cloth and solutions for the leather (beige) as it does get dirty pretty
fast. I haven't seen one on the road yet.
My brother is still shopping for his car.
Regards, LD, 06 Tribeca with DVD, Navigation 7/05
Hi Joe,
Thank you so much for your follow-up with
me on the Forester. Everything is perfect. We really enjoy the Forester
and its utility. Now, I am getting the small desire to have a WRX again.
When the 2006 WRX/STI literature comes out, let me know. And, if
you happen to have a significant sale on 2005 WRX/STI's let me know.
I know we really
enjoyed our 02 WRX and its performance.
Again, thank you for your attention to the details and your commitment
to total customer satisfaction. JH, 05 Forester, 6/05
Hi Joe, No problem - I called Chase Manhattan
and they changed the address without a problem. Just thought you'd like
to know. Thanks again for all the help getting the car. We are comfortably
situated up here in Alaska after a nearly grueling 6 day drive up Hwy 97
and the Alaska Hwy. It was beautiful. And the car performed beautifully.
We had the oil changed before departure, and in a few hundred miles we'll
get it changed again. Take care, BC, 2005 Impreza Outback Sport
SE, 6/05
Joe, Thanks for the letter.The honeymoon
still isn't over with my Baja. People stop me on the street and ask me
about it, even the wild life in the neighborhood comes round to check out
my Carter Subaru! See attachments. SS, 05 Baja turbo with leather, 6/05
(notice
the wildlife, it's a black bear)
Joe: It was a pleasure meeting you today.
Thanks for the frank advice and guidance. We consumers certainly
don't know the car market, options and etc., and I sure appreciate the
sound advice and honesty. Both are sometimes rare in any business and it
is good to have confidence in someone, such as yourself. The car drove
very solidly home. A great ride, plenty of power to pull the pass,
and very quiet inside. All features I was hoping for in the car.
My wife loved it - an important component to family happiness. I will share
your name with others looking for a Subaru. Alisa is the reference who
gave me your name. I will pass on your exceptional customer service
to others. Thank you. Gene S, 3/27/05, Outback 2.5i
Thanks for all your help. You made
a traumatic experience relatively pain free! I love the car so far
and can't see any reason for that to change. I do have to use cruise
control on the roads here, as I can't "feel" when I'm going 50 mph like
I could with the Toyota. Everyone I tell about the new car has nothing
but raves about Subaru. My
boss told me that the Forester was her
most favorite car ever. I also tell everyone how wonderful it was
dealing with you. My son asked if I have an anti-theft device on the car.
I wasn't sure and haven't been completely through the book yet. If
not, he strongly urged me to get it but I never had one of those before.
Anyway, thanks again for all your help. MD, 12/31/04, 2005 Forester X
Dear Joe, Just wanted to let you know
that Nancy and I love the car, and that I really appreciated how smooth
and effortless the entire transaction was. It was particularly refreshing
to be able to minimize the hassle of negotiations and to get a thorough
and efficient orientation to the car. I've kept your card and will
certainly recommend you to anyone who asks about the car and is looking
at Subarus!
I have gone ahead and contacted the Subaru
America website, and sent them the following message: "Just wanted to let
you know how happy we are with our 2005 Subaru Outback XT, and to also
let you know how wonderful and truly hassle-free the purchasing experience
was with Joe Spitz at Carter Subaru in Seattle. This was by far the easiest
and most pleasant car purchase I've ever had. Mr. Spitz gave an extremely
thorough and efficient vehicle orientation. I will definitely recommend
him and the vehicle to others, and want you to know how great he is!"
JS 12/9/04, 2005 Outback XT Limited
Joe- Got your note this past
week. I couldn't be happier with the car thus far -it's comfortable, smooth
and so much more powerful than my old '88 GL that
it feels like a 6 cylinder to me
- and I really appreciate the sport shift feature! Anyway, thanks for your
assistance - it was a pleasure doing business with you.
SG 11/04 2005 Outback 2.5i
Joe, Just wanted to send you
an email to say thank you! The WRX is Great, Ive only got around
1200 miles on it so far. Oh and thank you for mailing the plates,
they saved me a drive up there. Thanks Again! Russ H 10/04 WRX
Joe, Thanks for the inquiry and all your
help in purchasing the car. I just sent off a "thank you" note to you,
a first for me after a car purchase! Your professionalism, knowledge and
integrity made this a pleasant experience for us. We haven't used the car
since we drove home, but we sure like the way it looks parked in fron of
the house! B. & D. L, 9/04, 2005 GT wagon 9/05
Joe, I've got your message. We love our
new Outback! Heather digs it bigtime. I will give you top marks when the
survey arrives. I have nothing but good things to say about you and Carter.
If we buy a Subaru again, I will go straight to Carter. This whole experience
has given me perspective on the Puget Sound Subaru dealers. In addition
to being happy with our purchase, I must say that it's been very interesting
to see how a very successful business like Carter does their thing. Joe,
I am impressed and I will be back. Thank you, MW, new Outback, 5/04. Pt.
Townsend, Wa
Hi, Joe, we arrived in Fairbanks yesterday
after a 5-day trip. We had no problems, the car did fine, and the
weather was nice until the last day. The Alaska Highway is paved
the whole way.Thanks for your help in the purchase of the car.Regards,
CH, 04 Forester, 5/04
Hi Joe: Just a note to let you and Bob
Weintraub know how much we appreciate your assistance in getting our new
car. We love the Subaru and were so happy to get the exact options
we wanted. (Not easy for us Alaskans to achieve under normal
circumstances.) You followed through with all your promises and made
the transaction effortless. We were happy to reflect our appreciation
in the Subaru survey which we filled out and returned. Thanks for everything.
Sincerely, K& F S. April 04
Hey Joe. The car's great - no buyer's
remorse. No problems with the Girl Scout cookies, either. I
was like a 16-year-old this weekend trying to think up excuses to go drive
somewhere. My brother-in-law was looking for a toothpick and I offered
to run down to the store and buy some. He thought I was joking. Thanks,
GM April 04, Outback
Thanks Joe. All is great.
Thanks for making the purchase easy and truly "hassle free"!!! Steve D.
March 2004
Thanks Joe! The car drives like a dream.
Especially going up to Stevens and Crystal ski resorts. Thanks for making
this car-buying experiece one of the easiest and simplest ways to buy a
new car. And then there's always that new car smell. Love that too. Stay
in touch. Gary and Jan, Outback Limited 1/2004
Joe, thank you and Dan (business mgr)
for your professionalism.You made the buying experience very easy and enjoyable.
All car sales should be this easy. We love the car and if anyone we know
needs a Subaru, we'll send them your way. Again thank you and have a happy
holiday. John and Kathi H. used Lincoln LS, Dec 2003.
Dear Joe, I took my Forester into the
snow near Verlot for cross-country skiing on the weekend. It performed
tremendously on the unplowed road! I got the extended
warranty wrapped up. Thanks for the deal.
See you at my first oil change. Regards, Jana R, new Forester, 12/03
Joe, The Forester handled really well
on my first trip over Snoqualmie Pass. There was a sudden hard freeze that
turned the road into a sheet of ice and I had to wait 2.5 hours for a couple
of jacknifed semis get untangled at the top of Easton hill. I got out of
the car to talk to another trucker and could not stand up on the ice. I
was thinking I needed studs for this car although these tires did fine
on the ice. I never noticed it slipping at all. Sten and Linda B., 04 Forester,
12/03
Hi Joe, I LOVE the picture! This morning
I drove to Tacoma and back and things were fine; it's interesting getting
used to where everything is, AND to try to hold back on speed (for this
break-in period)! I'm sure that I'll come up with some questions in the
next few days so I'll just e-mail you, as it's the easiest way for me to
communicate w/you given my crazy schedule these days. Thanks again for
making the transaction relatively painless yesterday - spending money is
always a pain, but you made it less challenging to part with it, PLUS what
I just spent it on is SO MUCH FUN! Talk to you soon, Jennifer N. WRX wagon,
12/11/03
Hi Joe, WE LOVE THE CAR!!!! We took
it over the pass yesterday evening, and it drove like a dream. We
hit several icy patches on Blewett and were amzazed at how well it handled.
I think we just became life-long Subaru owners... Thanks for all your help.
You have been great to work with! L and AD, WRX wagon 11/03
Hey Joe: I just arrived home (Bend, Oregon).
Thanks for everything you did to make all this happen. I still cannot believe
that I own an LL Bean Edition Outback.... I never
would have gone this route until you made
me an offer that I just could not refuse. The car is just awesome!!!
Thanks you so much. I have been telling as many people as I can about
it and who you are....I hope some of them give you a call...and I will
continue talling people I run into the great service of Carter Subaru and
the
fantastic salesperson of Joe Spitz....you
are what makes carbuying a pleasure. I would like to write a letter
to the owner of Carter Subaru telling him of
my great experience. Who would I
send it to and what is their address? Thanks again for everything.
SW 10/03
Joe, Car is great but... I'm like a kid
in the candy store... can't wait to get that 1k miles on it. Got my bumper
cover and armrest already. Thanks again. Jim WRX 10/03
Good evening Joe. I really like driving
my Outback. I love the CD sound system. Frank has forward the picture to
a lot of friends. Everything is going along fine and
we appreciate your help. Thanks.
PBL, 10/03
Hello! I love driving my new SUBARUooooom!
It drives so smoothly. I have 178 miles on it now. Over half
a tank of gas still. I can hardly hear the engine after driving the
diesel for six months. It is fun showing it to everyone. You
know you should have left more business cards in the car. The back area
is great. I am always hauling something around; it is just my height!
I know I will love using it in my business. Thanks again for your help.
L amd M J, new Legacy GT 10/03
Joe, Thanks for a friendly, professional,
hassle-free buying experience. I have bought many cars over the years,
including 2 Saabs, 3 Mercedes, a Land Rover, a BMW and a Porsche.
This was my best dealership experience yet. I will certainly recommend
you to my friends. Sincerely, Pete S. PS -- I love driving the car. Sept
5, 03
I am very pleased with the new car (Outback).
Thank you so much for your wonderful help! I really appreciate it!
I was very nervous but you were very kind and patient with me. Thank you
again! I have told lots of people here at Swedish about you! Take
care. Susan B., July 20, 03
Hey all, my STi hunt ends: After an exhausting
search and contacting every dealer west of the Mississippi, and being told
that there was no way I would find a car sitting on a lot for under $5K
over MSRP, my search is over.
In June (2003), Subaru hosted their ride-and-drive
at Firebird Raceway in Pheonix where all of the dealers sent staff to try
the car. While there, discussions among dealers went as follows; "since
every other dealer is charging $5K I guess we should too".
When the second allotment arrived the phone
began to ring. All the dealers said "Your Blue car is here, $5K over sticker
price ..."
After answering the phone all afternoon
I finally just let the next call go to voice mail. Another dealer called.
"If you are still interested in an STi, we got some in over the weekend,
we selling for MSRP no hassles".
Well I picked my self up off the floor
and called.
Not only did he have cars but after a
20 minute conversation Joe had my buisness and my deposit.
Another quick call and the financing was
done.
The only thing was I would have to fly
to Seattle from LA to pick up my car. And then drive it back 1100 miles.
Oh this was to good to be true :)
After the flight I arrived at the dealer
and in less than 30 minutes I was on my way back to LA. THIS WAS BY
FAR THE EASIEST CAR BUY I HAVE EVER BEEN INVOLVED IN. (And there have been
many). Thank you, Joe. Mark J in Los Angeles, Ca. WRX STi July 2003
(this was posted on www.imprezawrxsti.com)
Joe, Thanks for the help you gave Wendy
and me with the purchase of our two new Subarus a couple weeks ago.
You made the chore of buying a car much easier with your "no games" pricing.
There a couple of dealerships closer to where we live, but you made the
drive to Carter Subaru worthwhile. Wendy and I love our new Subarus!
My Baja holds my paramotor just great as you can see in the attached photos,
and Wendy's new Outback takes on our 22-foot expedition sea kayak with
ease. We have to go to Pullman in two weeks to pick up our son from
WSU, so I am looking forward to the comfort of the Outback with its 6 CD
sound system, cruise control, and AC. Should be a bit more fun than
our previous trips! Thanks again for helping us out. Randy S, April
2003
Dear Joe, Thank you for all your help.
I did the online line survey for the dealership and left a few nice comments
for you. So I'm loving the car. Thanks for the help with the "ding". I
would like to know what It would take to get an STi. Definately a white
one. The fiance wants wants mine and I'm really thinking about stepping
up. Let me know. Thanks. Jeff K, April 03
Joe, It's been a week since I bought an
Outback VDC wagon from you at Carter Subaru. I am delighted with the car
more and more as I learn its systems and capabilities. In fact, I am so
satisfied with my purchase that I have not experienced the usual "buyer's
remorse". Thanks for making it so easy. -Greg March, 2003
Dear Joe. Hi, my name is Andrew and I
bought a WRX from you back in June of 2002. My father is currently
looking at the Forester and I had nothing but good things to say about
Carter Subaru, so he asked me if I could get you in contact with him.
His name is Richard, and he can be reached at xxx-xxxx or alternately via
email at @hotmail.com. Thanks again for a pleasant buying experience! Sincerely,
Andrew, Feb 2003
Hi Joe, The car is great!
I can't wait to reach 1000 miles so I can really see what it's made of.
I was wondering when you expect my license plates to come in. Thanks
again. -RD Jan 03, WRX
Joe, I just wanted to thank you for the
buying experience I had yesterday purchasing my Blue WRX Wagon at Carter.
As a busy professional who travels every week, I appreciated your prompt
replies with inventory and prices. Being able to come in, drive a
WRX, choose one, and then drive it out the door in less than 2 hours was
a huge benefit to me. My wife was also appreciative of you going
over the WHOLE car with us in person. She remarked that with our other
2 car purchases nobody had taken as much time as you did in walking us
through the car. This experience shows me that you truely know your
internet customers and can provide an outstanding buying
experience. I also wanted take the chance
to tell you that Adam was the person who referred me to you. You
can be sure that I will pass on your name to friends of mine who would
like a Subaru.Thanks again for everything, Mike D., Jan 03
Joe: Thanks for the phone call last week.
I have started this e-mail several time and it got put off. The 03
Outback is working great. I have about 700 miles on it. My
only concern how to keep the key entry bobble from swinging around and
hitting the column when I go over speed bumps. Have a nice weekend. Tom
M January 2003
Dear Joe, maybe you remember me, I bought
a blue Forester on 12/30/02. I just wanted to thank you for all your help.
I never thought buying a car was so easy. I love driving it around and
am glad I made the purchase. Right now I'm the envy of all my friends.
If I hear of someone who needs a subaru, I'll send them your way. Thanks
again for help and time. Happy New Year. Thanks again. Liz (Forester 12/02)
I got the car and I LOVE it! Just
got here yesterday. It really is a beautiful car. There is only one
other WRX in town, and people have been asking about it. I have been
giving out your name and telling alot of people about Carter Subaru. I'm
willing to bet you'll be getting some more business. I appreciate all your
help. CR, WRX in Alaska October 02
Joe, The car is doing great, actually,
it's more fun than I had ever expected. Can't wait to see how it performs
in snow when the season comes. :) -CH (WRX 9/02)
Joe has the most data about Subaru's that
I have ever seen. I was so impressed by Joe that I drove almost 250 miles
from Salem, Oregon to Seattle to buy a 2003 Forester XS. He made me a great
deal, which I could not pass up and the car is fantastic! Most sales people
don't know the difference between the 2002 and the 2003 model. Joe's web
site has all the details! I highly recommend Joe and would drive
to Seattle again when I buy another new Subaru. DB, 8/03 (03 Forester XS
5spd)
Joe, The Legacy is absolutely wonderful!
We have been having fun driving it all over the city. Yes, we are being
kind to it, however.
Everything is smooth, new, fresh, clean,
and good. We are very happy with our decision! Thanks again for all
your time during this purchase. We appreciated it! MK August 02 (02 Legacy
L)
Hi Joe, I absolutely love the car!!! That
was the easiest car deal I have ever made....so thank you. Take care, AJ
8/02 (02 WRX)
Hey there, Joe - Photo looks great, thanks.
And the car is stellar, we're both excited. Have already passed your name
on to some friends, though they won't be serious for another few months.
Take care, BS August 02 (01 Legacy L)
Well, the car is blast to drive. As you
know some rattles appeared in the trunk area, and I'll come and service
the car next Wednesday. The technician drove with me yesterday, and said
something about the door must be fixed. Anyway, thanks for the positive
experience in buying a car straight, without hassles. Will let you know
how the car is doing after some longer trips I
plan for the next two months. VM, July
02
Joe, thanks, the car is great. Most of
my friends (primarily climbing partners) are just pleased that I'll no
longer have an excuse for not driving. At any rate I'm enjoying the
new car, and I wanted to thank you and Dan for making it's purchase a pleasurable
experience, NF Feb 02 (Outback Sport)
HI Joe, The car is great. I love it! LOVE
IT. Thank you again for all your help and I think my brother will be coming
to see you shortly. I have been really busy with work and school stuff
that I haven't had the time to thank the people I need to. I like the picture
and
yes, my boyfriend is very pleased with
my purchase. Have a great one and a good valentines day. Talk to you soon.
Thanks again!
LH (Honda Civic) Feb 02
Hi, Thanks you! The car is doing great
and it is really nice to drive. The all-wheel drive is great to have on
my quarter-mile long, switch back, super steep driveway... I'll be taking
it up to the Pass this weekend to test out it's snow-handling capabilities!
Should be fun. Thanks! LT, Feb 02 (Legacy
L wagon)
Hi Joe: The car is working out very well
for me. The AWD and ABS are great. Even better than I remember
my 88 4WD Subaru handling in snow. I made it out of our neighborhood
the past few days, which can be a chore. I look forward to heading
home tonight and climbing the hill on Simonds road. The photo is great.
Thanks very much. I will keep in contact. Thanks again, we
love the car. J&J T. Jan 02 (Legacy L)
Hi Joe. Thanks. The car is an absolute
joy!! I can't drive near schools anymore tho . . . . . . . . car
won't go that slow!! Is this my midlife crisis toy? Oh well. I will
keep in touch to let you know how things go. Thanks again for your help.
LW (WRX, Jan 02)
Hey Joe...I LOVE the car. Finally
had time to lay the back seat flat and put Hannah, the corgi, in it and
knew I had bought the perfect car...she can see out of the windows!
Broke the car in good today...grandchil kicking against the back of my
seat with her wet shoes...decided I did need leather... life is so messy.
I love the car, Joe...fits nicely in my old garage.... I'll do an
ad campaign. JM Jan 02 (02 Forester S)
Hi Joe, B. and I wanted to wish you a
Happy New Year, and thank you again for selling us such an incredible
new Subaru!!! It's a great ski car and our dog loves it too.
We actually sold our other Subaru in less than a week after we put an ad
in the paper and the new family is so excited... plus they live fairly
close to us so we will still see it. Thanks again. N & B, Jan 02
Thanks Joe. The car is running great.
I took it down to Portland for my niece's wedding. The family was impressed.
I'm really
impressed with the handling. Wonderful
car on the freeway, too - so much extra power. I'm probably going to go
up to the mountains soon just so I can get the feel of it in the snow.
Maybe I'll take up skiing again - I've got the prefect car. Thanks, again.
JN,12/01 (2002 Outback Sport)
Thanks Joe, We've been waiting for the
picture! Looks great... The car has been fine, it's running a little
smoother now but it's still a tad rough at 2.5-3.5K rpm. After a
few more miles we'll see how it likes the 4K territory. Just had the rear
latch adjusted when you saw me. It wasn't closing completely about 20%
of the time. Otherwise, we've been very happy with the vehicle. Please
tell Hugh thanks for us too. And happy holidays to you both as well!
L&G, 12/01 (2002 Outback)
Hi, I just want to send a follow-up e-mail
after my purchase of a used Nissan pickup truck from you early last week.
Thank you so much for making the car buying experience so easy. Despite
the fact that this was not one of your high-end used cars, I still feel
like you treated me with the same respect you would anyone else, and I
greatly appreciate it. The truck is beautiful and I've come away a very
satisfied customer. Please pass along a thank-you to both Dans in financing
as well. They were very cool too, and patiently answered all my questions
until I understood the process. Good luck over the holidays! Sincerely,
RK, 11/01
Thanks Joe - I'm enjoying the heck out
of the car. Still trying to learn all the buttons, though.
Take care - B. 11/01
Joe: My face hurts from smiling so much.
ck 11/01 (WRX)
Joe, The car is great! Right now
its in the shop receiving an electronic mirror. I'm driving a loaner car
for the day. Thank you very much for the pictures and the up-front, courteous
service. I appreciate it. Best, EK 10/01 (02 Forester)
Joe, I love my Outback! It's a great
car. I'm looking forward to taking it off road, maybe next weekend.
I've been to preoccupied with the Mariners. I'm watching the game
as I send this email; scoreless at the bottom of the sixth. I'm about
ready to have a nervous breakdown! I'll be sure to say hello when I come
up to pick up my tags. Take care. Blessings, Doug 10/01
Joe, Love the WRX! I haven't had this
much fun with a car since my last Porsche, which was pre-kids. Thanks,
Dan, 10/01
Hi! Most fun I have had driving
a car in years (sorry Mr. Porsche!). Easy to handle and plenty of power
(even at < 4,000 rpm).
Thank you by the way, you sell great cars
and sell cars great. DS 10/01 (WRX)
Joe, thought
I'd let you know of some places we've been together.
Took my parents and a friend (all tall
people) to watch the eagles on the Skagit. My dad was just as impressed
with my car as he was with those magnificent birds.
Snowshoeing at Mt Rainier- getting waved
through the chains checkpoint.
Cycling near the Columbua River- everyone
appreciated the carrying capacity for bikes and gear
Backpacking in the Teanaway area- instant
a/c when it was hot and buggy outside-ever see a mosquito freeze?
Driving on a Forest Service road and passing
2 guys in a 4WD truck with astonished looks on their faces.
Kayak trip in coastal BC (I promised I'd
keep my sweet spot secret). Mommy and the Minnow look great together and
with a little help from a step stool, loading the boat on top is no problem.
Car camping in the wagon with rear seats
flat- I was sleeping in the womb.
The most miles I've driven in a year (10K)
but every mile an adventure.Thanks, LK, October 2001 (Legacy wagon)
Hi, Joe. Loving my car
(02 Outback). It's everything I wanted. Took it over to Winthrop
this past holiday weekend. EPA estimates must be based on going 70MPH.
Filled up in Burien and drove home. Then from West Seattle, over
the North Cascade Hwy to Winthrop and then back to Sedro Woolly was 384.5
miles. I put in 13.859 gal of gas. I was impressed. Made
me decide that I really didn't NEED the little extra kick that the six
would have given going over the pass. Also.......... have my plates come
in yet? Could you drop them in the mail to me? Thanks. TR, Sept 01
The car is great, it is getting better
gas milage than I expected. Thanks, R. August 2001
Hi Joe! I had my car up to Carter
for it's 6,000 mile service on Friday, the 20th, and looked for you. You
must have had the day off.
Thanks for the card and the picture of
me with my car. I continue to enjoy my car. In fact I am finally taking
it to Sportsrack.com to fit it out with a bike and boat rack. Of course
I will say you referred me. It's obvious you really care about your customers.
I spent 20 years at Northwest Airlines in customer service, and I know
really good service when I get it. Everyone there is really nice and takes
good care of me. I will stay in touch. Hope all is well with you. Take
care and enjoy the rest of your summer.
Your Friend, Leslie L., July 2001
Hi Joe, Laura and I love our new 2001
Forester! She drives it to work everyday..so my time behind the wheel is
limited (bummer). I have discovered how easily it handles...as did our
'96 Legacy. There are so many wonderful bells and whistles. It's great.
I especially like the huge sun roof (next step-convertible!) We will always
own and drive a Subaru. That's for sure. Thanks for everything. Jean,
July 2001
Last summer I needed a nice looking, reliable,
4wd vehicle without a lot of haggling banter and you made it happen, with
an incredible price. Joe, you were the beginning and end of my carsearch
circle and I actually got the chance to discuss "The Last Picture Show"
with a pre-owned car salesman instead of how much "I can afford"...very
refreshing, much appreciated, and you can bet I will soon be back for my
next auto purchase. Everyone appreciates quality hard work, thank
you. Martin 7/01
Joe, Thank you yet again for making this
whole experience quite pleasant - something I had never even heard of happening.
:)
I got the letter from you, and the service
guys have already contacted me this morning and set up an appointment.
Thanks yet again.
Gene Z, 6/01
The WRX is great, a lot of fun to drive.
I'm happy with it so far, had the oil changed already and it went into
the shop today to get the alignment checked. My wife likes the color and
the look of it. I recommended you to a guy at the dealership who was looking
at my car. He was looking into buying one. I gave him my phone # if he
has any ? to call me and I will give him one of your cards.
Again thanks Joe I'm loving the car getting
a lot of ?s about it and admiring stares. Dan J, 4/01
Joe, I just wanted to drop you a note
to thank you for the very professional job you did, in assisting me with
the purchase of my new 2001 Subaru Forrester. I had my doubts that I would
be able to purchase the vehicle over the phone, but you made the process
quick and easy. I appreciated your no nonsense approach to coming to terms
over a price and found that you were very knowledgable about the
product. I was delighted that you were able to obtain the car so quickly
so that it was in Seattle when I
arrived after moving from Boston. I especially
appreciated your prompt return of phone calls and general overall attentiveness
to my needs. I'll stop by and say hi when I bring the car by for servicing.
By the way, thanks for the tip about Central Market. It's great.
Take care and thanks again, Brian
12/2000
Hi Joe. Thanks again for selling me the
RS. The car is great.
Joe and Carter Subaru
were recommended to me by quite a few people on the i-Club bulletin board
(http://www.impreza-rs.com)
My experience at Carter Subaru was wonderful.
I was moving from Philadelphia
to Seattle to start a new job after college. I needed a car pretty
much on arrival, I knew I wanted an RS, and I knew that I didn't want to
pay an arm and a leg for it. So I decided that the best way to go would
be to order the car.
I called up Joe, told
him exactly which options I wanted in the car and that I wanted to do a
factory order. We talked about the price, he faxed the purchase order,
I signed it and faxed it back.
All in all my experience with Joe Spitz
and Carter Subaru in Seattle has been nothing but great. If you're
in the market for any Subaru give Joe a call (well, you're on his website
already). Thanks again for a great car! Max. 9/2000
"Joe, you are the Man". We had a
great drive home, in probably the nicest car we've ever owned. Seattle
was a much faster paced town then our Montana ski town of Whitefish, but
the car performed perfectly. This is the only way to buy a car.
Your web site made it too easy. The complementary ride from downtown
Edmonds to your dealership was "fab". Once we got to Carter
Subaru, you helped us through all the
details, etc. Your quick lesson of all the options was really great,
most salesman would just want somebody out the door. We are
fantastically happy about the entire deal. Next "RU" I get, I'm going
straight to your web page. We'll recommend you and your web page
to everyone. See Ya .... Randy D. in Montana. 9/2000
(from someone who purchased
and then referred a friend, and went out for "Dinner on Me")
Joe- Joan and I finally got together for
"dinner on you" last night. The food, view, drinks and company were
all top notch! AND Joan has a really hot car! Thanks
for dinner- we toasted you and Subaru... Gael 7/2000
Joe, I tried the seat warmers a few days
ago when I had a chill. Unexpectedly, and probably no surprise to
you - I love it! I'm so glad they came with my car! All is
well and I'm getting acquainted with it day by day. Feels really good.
Again, thanks for helping me find the
RIGHT car. Blessings, Elaine, July 2000
Hi Joe, I have been so busy of late...
I rear ended this guy on Monday after I drove off with my car from you
on Sat. I have never been laughed at so much! Just got it back from
the bodyshop. They did a great job and I am so glad to have it back. I
love the car. Thanks for selling subarus! I'm going to Italy the 11th......I'm
storing the car safely at my sisters during the trip.
What a life! Doris, 6/00 (her 2nd purchase)
Joe, Once again I just wanted
to thank you for the experience I had at Carter Subaru. I felt genuinely
at ease in the atmosphere at your facility. So far I absolutely LOVE
my car! I told a friend what I bought over the weekend, and he quickly
became jealous. Overall I would rate the experience at your facitity
10 of 10. Thanks Jeff, Olympia, Wa, 4/00
Joe- The "Outback" is fantastic
on snow and ice and I love the heated front seats. Thank you for all your
help and without a doubt you're the best salesman that I have ever worked
with. Thanks again-Cheers - Don 1/2000
Hi Joe, My car-buying experience at Carter
Subaru was the most pleasant I've ever had.
You listened to what I wanted and did
not try to sell me stuff I didn't need.
Even the financial negotiations were not
unpleasant; I felt that I got a fair price with very little hassle. And
15,000 miles later, I love my little Subie! (Impreza Outback Sport).
from V and B. 1999
Joe: We love the GT. It was
the perfect choice. Now Jim kids me about finding excuses to run
out for an errand with my new toy just as he did when he bought his 325ic.
And I do want to say that dealing with
Carter Subaru was the most professional car buying experience I have had.
In the past when I purchased my Audis and first Subaru (oops, not from
Carter), the sales person was like a s-l-o-w ping pong ball bouncing back
and forth between the sales manager and the customer trying to come to
a final sales price--it took forever. At Carter, your sales manager was
right there with you and we concluded to an acceptable price quickly and
decisively. Even your finance manager did not try to hard sell us
all the extra warranties, special under and overcoatings etc. Just
a quick "are you interested?" and when we said "nope," he moved right on
to signing all the paperwork. Quick and easy.
The custom leather seats are comfy.
And by the way, I walked by a Mercedes SLK this morning parked at Bellevue
Square. And guess how the leather seats were stitched? Just
like my new GT! Classy!
P.S. Kudos to your receptionist
for remembering my name and that I was the one that bought that red GT.
She has a great knack for remembering names and trying to help out.
It was nice to hear a voice instead of an automated answering machine where
I had to punch several buttons to get to the sales dept and then no one
answered and I had to leave a general voice mail.
P.P.S. Thanks for the great web-site.
Without it and the extensive amount of historical information it contained,
I would have hesitated to drive all the way over to north Seattle.
But it was worth the trip.
Thanks again. Nancy, 1998
Hey Joe! The car was great driving
the Alaska Hwy up to Fairbanks. I gripped gravel, surfed frost heaves
and stopped in record time to avoid a collisionwith a moose and her calf.
Very Paul Hogan!
Buying the car out of Seattle couldn't
have been easier, from accessing the website, calling the toll-free number
and having you guys even pick me up at my hotel in Seattle for the test
drive.
Many Juneauites have admired my car.
I have one prospect for you already. Will pass your card on to her.
From S.S., Alaska, 1998
Joe -- feel free to use all or part of
my comments on your webpage. Thanks again. Car is still doing
great. I'll send an update once it gets below zero here.....
Thanks for your efforts to try to find
me the car I needed: first, the '96 Legacy wagon, then the '96 Legacy Outback.
I have, for the time being, gone back
to my true love: my 1985 GL wagon and am having a low mileage engine from
Japan installed in her and the CV joints replaced with new assemblage.
When I had AAA tow her from her "resting
place" near the waterfront to my home, the driver said, "Why would you
consider having this just towed away after this? This is still a
really nice car! You should get it fixed!"
And then he told me about the low mileage
engines shipped over from Japan, Since I am really fond of my faithful
old Suburu (despite that weak engine), this was music to my ears, so I
guess I'll drive her for a few more years.
My son and I appreciated your low key
sales approach and agreed you were our favorite sales person, and believe
me, we saw lots of them.
When I'm ready for another car in a few
years, I'll see if you're still at Carter Subaru! By the way, your
web site is great!
from A.M. 1998
Joe, you're welcome to use our names
if you like.
The best thing about our car-buying experience
with Joe Spitz and Carter Subaru was that Joe and the dealership delivered
everything that was promised (and more). From the price of the car, which
was below our expectations, to the patient and thorough manner in which
Joe explained and/or demonstrated the features and benefits of the car,
the warranty, and the dealership, we came away from the experience confident
in our selection and without a single regret.
We highly recommend Joe to anyone consideringthe
purchase of a car.
from R and M. DeLorme, 1998
Hi Joe,
I am sending this email to let you know
that I really appreciate how you helped me find my perfect car. I
am so happy with how everything turned out that I thought it would be good
to sum up my particular car buying experience for others to read about
on your website…
When my ’83 Subaru with 197,000 miles
on it recently broke down (temporarily), my friends threatened to have
me committed if I went ahead with my plans to buy a new engine for it!
Okay, it was true that I could afford a new car, but I really didn’t want
to deal with the hassle of looking for a car and talking to a car salesman
(this did not sound like my idea of fun). Besides, I am usually particular
about big things that I buy and I knew this meant that I would need to
do a lot of research before I made any decisions
regarding a new car.
I liked the Outback Limited, but was disappointed
to find that I couldn’t get a ’99 or ‘98 Ltd in blue (my favorite color).
In fact, I nixed the idea of buying a ’99 when I saw the new sandstone
trim on the Ltds (what’s up with this color? I don’t know what the
public consensus is, but personally I think it is gaudy!). I had
previously seen a beautiful blue/slate Outback Ltd parked near my school,
but not having any info on pre-’98 Ltds and since it was the only one I
had ever seen, I assumed it was a custom color. So at this point
I thought my only choice was to find a ’98 white/slate Ltd (the only other
acceptable color as far as I was concerned).
After a frustrating encounter with uninformative
salespeople at a local Subaru dealership (one salesman told me that he
had been selling Subarus for 4 years and that the Ltd had always had a
lower sandstone trim!), I was unhappily ready to hire an independent car
advisor to find a ’ 98 white/slate Ltd for me.
As a last attempt to get more info on
earlier Ltd configurations, I posted a message on an internet subaru newsgroup
asking about the ’97 Ltd (e.g. did it come in blue/slate?, have a sunroof
option?, etc). Joe saw my posted message and sent me an email
answering all of my questions and provided
a link to his great Subaru info website. How nice! Joe also
mentioned that he currently had a ’97 Sydney-Blue/Slate Outback Ltd at
Carter Subaru. Of course, I sent Joe additional emails asking a lot
of other questions,
and he was totally cool to answer all
of them. He even put ’97 Outback Ltd specs on his
website the same day that I sent him an
email asking about them :) I felt better about the whole car
buying thing when I went to Carter to meet Joe and see the car. Joe
was really nice, patient, and knowledgable about all the very specific
questions that I asked (and I had a long list of them!). Joe didn’t
pressure sell me at all and I felt completely comfortable talking with
him. The car was exactly what I wanted! It was a beautiful
blue/slate, with low miles, loaded with neat options, and the price was
very fair. I bought the car that same night and Joe stayed after
Carter normally closes while I gathered more info and went through the
car purchase paperwork.
Well, I have my new car now and I love
it! I feel really lucky to have it because I know it is a uncommon
color for the Outback Ltds. I also feel that I wouldn’t have this
perfect car if it had not been for Joe being so internet-savvy and willing
to help. He made the car buying process that I was dreading an actual pleasant
experience.
I would certainly highly recommend Joe
to anyone I know who wants to buy a Subaru in the future.
Thanks Joe! Jessica C. Bellevue WA,
December 1998
some letters have been edited to remove
personal stuff etc
It's true that sometime I get emails from
folks who don't buy from me and aren't too happy, but there's no sense
including those here.
Thank you for visiting.
Bye,
Joe Spitz
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