No new Gen V for me, off to the Z06

[ViperSmith]

The voucher never came, inquired with a few trusted sources and seems I don't qualify since I sold the car (for quite a loss) less than 3 weeks before Sept announcement date of the voucher - plan was to order a 15 by getting rid of it then (Before winter set in).

As one of the few here that ordered back in November of 2012, waited forever to actually get the car (and at one point telling Tomball I didn't want it after 7+ months of waiting), then finally taking delivery - I am quite displeased with Dodge and Tim.

Yes, their business prerogative and blah blah, but I feel slighted as one of those that bought in early and was fanatical about how great it was. So, I'll be taking my money elsewhere. And yes, it is still a great car.

Shame, I was quite excited to get into a Stryker Orange Gen V... Such is life.

Enjoy the cars, all. The Z06 will be great and with the A8, something my wife can easily drive and enjoy.

[Nine Ball]

Where does it say (in print) that since you sold the car, you aren't entitled to a loyalty voucher?

Good luck with the Z06. It will be a fun car, but it will feel like a downgrade once you spend some time with it.

[ViperSmith]

Where does it say (in print) that since you sold the car, you aren't entitled to a loyalty voucher?

Good luck with the Z06. It will be a fun car, but it will feel like a downgrade once you spend some time with it.

If I can find a decent 991 GT3 or even MP4-12C I'll be all over those two.

I am disappointed, I was excited to get into another Viper - but it is a matter of principle.

[Nine Ball]

Suggest sending an email or tweet to Ralph, he usually responds. Sounds like you've just spoke with the wrong people, IMHO. What did Bernie say?

[ViperSmith]

Suggest sending an email or tweet to Ralph, he usually responds. Sounds like you've just spoke with the wrong people, IMHO. What did Bernie say?

I was in the system qualifying when first announced but sounds like they circled back around and knocked me out of it...

[FLATOUT]

That sucks, it sounds to me like it would be a judgement call on their part as your timming just sucked (no fault of yours, as you had no idea they were about to offer those vouchers.) And yes I do remember you being a huge proponent for the car, and the fact that you are absolutely wanting to buy another Viper begs the question why would you NOT want to help this guy out?

Sorry Man I hope someone steps up and helps keep you in the Viper community.

[Track Pack]

sorry to hear, enjoy the car.

[swexlin]

Sorry to hear this as well. Perhaps you can still get it fixed. That being said, it does look the Z06 will be a fantastic car. Please stay here in our community, and let us know how you like it once you get it.

Scott

[2010.Blue.White.ACR]

You can get a voucher just talk to the right people

[daytonprowler]

Call 1-800-998-1110 JR Thompson. They are the voucher people. I've sent the link to this thread and one other thread to them.

[VENOM V]

Man that stings Harold, gotta get you back in a snake. Hoping they'll get this sorted out for you

[Chorps]

Why does Dodge like shooting themselves in the foot so much? That is a moronic decision that turns a loyal buyer into a dissatisfied former customer. It's not like he could use the coupon to buy 10 Darts or a Hellcat, and from what I recall there was never any proviso on the coupon that required anyone to have the car still.

Even going back on their decision would still leave a bitter aftertaste.

Best of luck with the Z06, I hope you have a better ownership experience than you've had with the Gen V.

[docwviper]

You can get a voucher just talk to the right people

I'm in the EXACT same boat. Doesn't matter trust me. I was going to order a stryker orange as well. Finally settled on a the Carbon TA. I wanted the voucher. I was told by two dealer sponsors on here, big names, trusted, etc. that they could get the voucher. That didn't happen. After tweeting with SRT they refused my inquiry and said I did not qualify because I sold my car several weeks as well before this all was announced. I still stuck with Viper but I never forget the way I was treated. I feel like some of our big dealers have the pull to get it done but I guess not... I also tweeted ralph, I got no response. In the past he had responded to me. I've only spoken to him once. So I feel your pain. I didn't get to a Z06 but man I never forgot, hold a grudge and I'm young. Many more vipers coming my way. I'll be more selective about who I do business with in the future.

[docwviper]

I just tweeted Ralph again about. Last time was a on the 11th. Maybe I'll get a response this time.

[FLATOUT]

I just tweeted Ralph again about. Last time was a on the 11th. Maybe I'll get a response this time.

Ralph has absolutely nothing to do with the Voucher program. This whole thing was enacted after his departure (Tim K). I only bring it up because you are barking up the wrong tree if you actually want to get something done.

[docwviper]

Flatout, we open to suggestions.

Just got off the phone with 1-800-998-1110 and this went nowhere. I take deliver on the 18th of this month so time is pressing...

[docwviper]

What is Tim's tweet account? I can't find it maybe i'll ask him.

[ViperSmith]

After a bit of follow up and talking with some people (All the forum vendors have been fantastic) there really isn't much Dodge will do.

So, thanks for everything guys. I did enjoy it while it lasted.

Unlike docwviper, I won't be purchasing a new Viper or actually and Chrysler product - as a matter of principle.

Good luck to all and enjoy your cars, they are fun :)

[Voice of Reason]

How did they even know it was sold? I guess I'd like to know what personal information they're cross checking to get to their list. They obviously have a list of original purchasers, but are they then looking up DMV records to see if it's still owned? My voucher said nothing about a requirement of still owning the car, in fact it said if the voucher was lost there was a number the dealer could call to "get it worked out". There's enough money here that getting a lawyer involved makes sense for someone about to purchase. IMO this needs sorted out now because in 2 years there could be a LOT more people in this situation. What if someone is holding a voucher today and sells their car, then tries to buy in the spring, is their voucher void?

[Dman]

Still can't believe this. Seriously as loyal a customer as any company could ever hope to have and this is the treatment.

Just wow.

The Z06 as we all know will be awesome, congrats to GM for yanking business from Dodge, especially a customer who did more for publicly marketing the gen5 then SRTs marketing dept did.

[ViperSmith]

How did they even know it was sold? I guess I'd like to know what personal information they're cross checking to get to their list. They obviously have a list of original purchasers, but are they then looking up DMV records to see if it's still owned? My voucher said nothing about a requirement of still owning the car, in fact it said if the voucher was lost there was a number the dealer could call to "get it worked out". There's enough money here that getting a lawyer involved makes sense for someone about to purchase. IMO this needs sorted out now because in 2 years there could be a LOT more people in this situation. What if someone is holding a voucher today and sells their car, then tries to buy in the spring, is their voucher void?

I sold my car August 8th. I assume the guy registered with them between the 8th and Sept 2nd.

They are saying that since I wasn't registered with the car as of 2nd, as the first owner when the vouchers were mailed out, I am not eligible.

Hey, their rules, but I still call BS.

I'd love to know if people that sold, the car hadn't been reregistered got a voucher and used one... That would make for some fun.

[Murpowa]

Nice job Dodge..

[V1P3R]

^^agree^^^

the more time that passes, the bigger the problem will get.

[Nine Ball]

They are making this too complicated. There should only be one simple eligibility rule here:

1. If you bought a brand new 2013 or 2014 prior to the announcement, you are entitled a loyalty voucher.

Period.

[FLATOUT]

Exactly it make it's pretty black and white with no grey area to argue over. Which is actually why I am concerned about the issue I am having getting mine.



They are making this too complicated. There should only be one simple eligibility rule here:

1. If you bought a brand new 2013 or 2014 prior to the announcement, you are entitled a loyalty voucher.

Period.

[v10enomous]

So it sounds like the rationale is that if you sold the car before the price drop then you weren't hurt by the price drop.

[ViperSmith]

So it sounds like the rationale is that if you sold the car before the price drop then you weren't hurt by the price drop.

lmao, yeah I'd get to differ with old timmy that $45,000 in 13 months isn't "hurting"

[v10enomous]

lmao, yeah I'd get to differ with old timmy that $45,000 in 13 months isn't "hurting"

I'm not saying it's right or wrong, just speculating on the logic.

[ViperSmith]

They are making this too complicated. There should only be one simple eligibility rule here:

1. If you bought a brand new 2013 or 2014 prior to the announcement, you are entitled a loyalty voucher.

Period.

See, you own your own business and realize the value of happy customers. It is cut and dry.

In the end it just turns me off to Chrysler as a whole. Them groveling over $15,000 is going to cost them more in the long run. I won't by a Hellcat, I won't buy a Hellcat JGC.

Just bizarre.

I think cutting prices was great, I think the voucher program was great - I just want one.

Tim isn't the advocate for the brand that Ralph was, which is disappointing.

- - - Updated - - -


I'm not saying it's right or wrong, just speculating on the logic.

I totally get your point my friend :)

[v10enomous]

It will be interesting to see what happens when they announce the 2015 options pricing.

[Bill Pemberton]

The way it was explained to me was a vehicle traded in or sold ( Corporate could not legally differeniate from one traded in for a Porsche/Corvette/Jag , for example, two weeks ago, or someone who just sold it outright ) was done at the prevailing market rate, and therefore was not impacted in the same way as when the pricing was dropped by Dodge.

It is frustrating and sad for guys like ViperSmith, but it is a legal situation where one can not treat some customers one way and others another. Tough deal and we can all sympathize , yet in trying to help some folks, this was the answer we got and though not what we wanted to hear , it does make logical sense. In most cases the reason folks could not get a Voucher ,was the Dealer Service Records already showed a new owner assigned to the Vin, and therefore the original owner was identified by no longer having possession.

[TrackAire]

I understand what Dodge is saying, but rules can be changed. Seriously, how many Vipers were sold in this time frame that mimic Vipersmiths situation?

Also, what if you bought a new Viper and it was bought back or lemon lawed?....what about those vouchers?

Come on Dodge, step up and do the right thing.

[docwviper]

I understand what Dodge is saying, but rules can be changed. Seriously, how many Vipers were sold in this time frame that mimic Vipersmiths situation?

Also, what if you bought a new Viper and it was bought back or lemon lawed?....what about those vouchers?

Come on Dodge, step up and do the right thing.

Exactly. A handful off us are effected. I'm having another viper delivered in a week and I have Jeep SRT8. I was loyal and stayed with the brand. Heck may be getting a second SRT 8 the loves mine so much. Sucks this Tim guy does what he does. Wish they would see how not cool this is.

I don't feel the justification is correct. I work in a job where every patient I see feels entitled so I get it to a certain extent. Whatever...

[Voice of Reason]

The way it was explained to me was a vehicle traded in or sold ( Corporate could not legally differeniate from one traded in for a Porsche/Corvette/Jag , for example, two weeks ago, or someone who just sold it outright ) was done at the prevailing market rate, and therefore was not impacted in the same way as when the pricing was dropped by Dodge.

It is frustrating and sad for guys like ViperSmith, but it is a legal situation where one can not treat some customers one way and others another. Tough deal and we can all sympathize , yet in trying to help some folks, this was the answer we got and though not what we wanted to hear , it does make logical sense. In most cases the reason folks could not get a Voucher ,was the Dealer Service Records already showed a new owner assigned to the Vin, and therefore the original owner was identified by no longer having possession.

In that case a point in time should have been picked and all current owners, new AND used, should have been given the vouchers. Because used buyers were affected by the reduction as much as new buyers. They're playing a game with their selection that benefits them the most.

[Loud]

Is it just me that I do not see this as something Dodge should be held accountable for? Timing of things didn't work out for some owners and there are many in the same boat of having sold their car before this announcement came out. Did they take a hit, perhaps, but at the time of selling they knew they were doing the right thing.

[Bill Pemberton]

This was a program never done by any manufacturer , and though we can all see it is not perfect for all, it is not logical to expect a manufacturer to give a Voucher to someone who bought a used vehicle. You are not going to get a rebate from a Manufacturer on a used car , and this would have the same type of logic.

Over the years Dealers and consumers have been impacted when Manufacturers came out with a big rebate and then fairly soon it was increased. Nothing was ever done to assist those that bought prior, and this attempt to balance things out is not perfect , but it is the very first attempt, ever. We have all bought something and then things got better, but that is why Franchises are never told what the upcoming rebates or incentives might be.

We would benefit immensely if everyone got a Voucher, but there is a point where getting this even done, and past the legal dept. at Chrysler, was amazing, but sadly it can not meet all criteria. Though it would be nice to make exceptions, no manufacturer ( not Ford, GM, etc. ) would do that on something like this, as it would open them to exposure in all other kinds of cases. We have at least 5 very good customers that would benefit ( and so would we ), but like any program ever done, it can not satisfy or meet all needs.

We all asked for a lower price point, and they listened and actually came up with what Dodge thought might be a solution to the change in value to the marquee. It was an ethical attempt, never done, but like all things impossible to please all. In a perfect World they would make amends to folks like Vipersmith who have bought numerous Vipers, but all buyers must be treated the same. In days gone by it could have happened , but in today's litiganous society, rules are set down and must be adherred to by all when Corporations are involved.

[XSnake]

Ralph has absolutely nothing to do with the Voucher program. This whole thing was enacted after his departure (Tim K). I only bring it up because you are barking up the wrong tree if you actually want to get something done.

^^^ This

[Policy Limits]

Not getting the voucher because u sold for a huge loss or getting it and then getting pooned on trade is the same difference. Get a 2.0. C7 cars are everywhere already.

[ViperSmith]

Not getting the voucher because u sold for a huge loss or getting it and then getting pooned on trade is the same difference. Get a 2.0. C7 cars are everywhere already.

Considering the number of people that paid WELL below invoice getting $15k vouchers, seeing as I paid MSRP, I am far from coming out anywhere close to being equal even if that scenario were true.

Oh well.

[FrgMstr]

<snip>

Over the years Dealers and consumers have been impacted when Manufacturers came out with a big rebate and then fairly soon it was increased. Nothing was ever done to assist those that bought prior, and this attempt to balance things out is not perfect , but it is the very first attempt, ever.

<snip>
We would benefit immensely if everyone got a Voucher, but there is a point where getting this even done, and past the legal dept. at Chrysler, was amazing, but sadly it can not meet all criteria. Though it would be nice to make exceptions, no manufacturer ( not Ford, GM, etc. ) would do that on something like this, as it would open them to exposure in all other kinds of cases.

I think your comparison is hollow considering the overall production number of cars we are talking about.

[Viper Girl]

This seems to be a one off program that has never been tried before... and maybe won't ever be done again. It wasn't perfect, as one size fits all usually doesn't. I wish it had worked for everyone as well. VS, the C7 will be fun for a short time... it's fast no doubt... The C7 magnuson car can put a smile on my face, but it's not the Viper... That's just me though... I hope you enjoy it...

[daveg]

Screw Dodge, As a Vette owner as well, go buy a Vette, you will be very happy. You get allot of bang for the buck.. Let yet another Viper sit on there already crowded showroom floor.. IDIOTS!

[2doorrocket]

I have a really good list of reputable Chevrolet dealers, let me know, we could order the car and have your Z06 shipped to you in covered transport.

[docwviper]

I have a really good list of reputable Chevrolet dealers, let me know, we could order the car and have your Z06 shipped to you in covered transport.

I have a buddy who owns a Chevy dealer in chicago. Two allocations viper smith.

Hey bill I'm on my third viper and 31. That's years of lost business for dodge.....

[05Commemorative]

The title throws me on this. If you want a C7 Z, you should go get one. If you prefer a Viper G5, go get one. Not sure how your feelings about a manufacturer should impact your decision making on choosing the best product for you. when you get it back to your garage, are you thinking about the manufacture or the actual car?

You took your loss on your prior G5 before the announcement. You paid what you believed to be market value and you sold for market value, thus the loss is what it is because it all happened before the announcement. If you truly want to by a C7 Z because that is your preferred choice, then great and Dodge has nothing to do with it. If you truly prefer another G5, then put the emotions aside and just go get it. I think you would be happier owning the product you truly want.

[Coloviper]

Who is this lawyer crew at FCA already? Never heard of a big bunch if scum bags as what seems to be in place over there. These guys and gals seems like they would push their grandmother down the stairs to collect the lawsuit money.

Up to whatever point in time, if you bought new, you should get a voucher regardless if you sold, salvaged it or whatever. Clean and simple. I just don't get the business model they are running on. It defies logic. How this lawyer crew is allowed to keep their job us beyond logic.

Sorry to hear but wish you the best. I think you will be writing similar dissatisfaction on the new Vette; but that is me, that car does nothing for me. Come on Dodge,wake up already! This is beyond amateur hour. I love the new car but come on!

[AZTVR]

I guess that it all comes down to the "entitlement" feeling in our society. Every one has their personal opinion of what is "fair." It is funny to see the entitlement feelings showing up so strongly in a discussion of a rich man's toy.

[docwviper]

I guess that it all comes down to the "entitlement" feeling in our society. Every one has their personal opinion of what is "fair." It is funny to see the entitlement feelings showing up so strongly in a discussion of a rich man's toy.

Entitlement... Seems to be the word some dealers around here throw out too. Tread lightly, I know lots about that ;)

[docwviper]

The title throws me on this. If you want a C7 Z, you should go get one. If you prefer a Viper G5, go get one. Not sure how your feelings about a manufacturer should impact your decision making on choosing the best product for you. when you get it back to your garage, are you thinking about the manufacture or the actual car?

You took your loss on your prior G5 before the announcement. You paid what you believed to be market value and you sold for market value, thus the loss is what it is because it all happened before the announcement. If you truly want to by a C7 Z because that is your preferred choice, then great and Dodge has nothing to do with it. If you truly prefer another G5, then put the emotions aside and just go get it. I think you would be happier owning the product you truly want.

This is why I stuck with the viper. I'm a sucker and thankfully can absorb the blow a little. Still not excited about the whole situation.

[vipertank]

How about an older Viper you buy from a private seller? You could still be a Viper owner, hold to your principles, and save bucks.

[ViperSmith]

The title throws me on this. If you want a C7 Z, you should go get one. If you prefer a Viper G5, go get one. Not sure how your feelings about a manufacturer should impact your decision making on choosing the best product for you. when you get it back to your garage, are you thinking about the manufacture or the actual car?

You took your loss on your prior G5 before the announcement. You paid what you believed to be market value and you sold for market value, thus the loss is what it is because it all happened before the announcement. If you truly want to by a C7 Z because that is your preferred choice, then great and Dodge has nothing to do with it. If you truly prefer another G5, then put the emotions aside and just go get it. I think you would be happier owning the product you truly want.

I guess everyone is entitled to their opinion.

I know how I run my business and deal with my customers, I expect the same from those I do business with.

[05Commemorative]

totally understand, but you are referring to personal relationships. You or any of us really don't have a personal relationship with dodge. Your not doing business with dodge. At best, you are doing business with a dealer that sells the product. Are you upset with the dealer? If not, then not the issue. In this case, you are talking about a product (just a car). why would you buy a product you don't like as well simply because you are upset with the company that manufactured the product you truly want. Take out the emotion and just answer for yourself which product you want more and will be happy with.

btw, I get your frustration and the emotion that it is generating, but do you really want to be back on this forum a year from now stating how you purchased a C7, don't like it, now have sold it and taken another hit and back in the market for the car you wanted in the first place? that $15k voucher and anger towards dodge would look pretty silly at that time.

Again, if you want the C7, you should just get it and will be happy.


I guess everyone is entitled to their opinion.

I know how I run my business and deal with my customers, I expect the same from those I do business with.

[Unorthodox]

When they came out with the 15k MSRP reduction, they knew it would kill the used value of the GenV's (essentially reducing their value by 15k, although not really). Since you sold your car before that happened, I can see where they are coming from by not giving you the voucher. Sadly, it really just boils down to bad timing on your part I'm afraid.

Michael

[46hemi]

Good for you. Stick with your principles. Saying it is a big corporation is a cop out. They can do whatever they choose to do. Any executive with the least amount of business acumen would see the difference between this situation and the guy who missed the free navigation upgrade on his dart he bought 2 weeks before a promotion. Yes you need to treat all customers well but the reality is not all customers are equal and that is true from the corner deli to a stock broker. I would be willing to bet that the OP would not feel quite as badly if a senior executive who had the power to make some real decisions called him personally (after researching his history with the brand) and explained the situation and why they could not do it then offered him any other compensation in his power. Offer him a reduced price on a car that he could order and oversee his order with the dealer, give him a few extra viper experiences with his new order, and even if he did not purchase send him a box of viper merchandise and follow it up with a personal note and the problem would have likely been fixed and if not, at least he would have less of a leg to stand on while posting on forums. So simple it almost seems silly. Fail.

[RedTanRT/10]

When they came out with the 15k MSRP reduction, they knew it would kill the used value of the GenV's (essentially reducing their value by 15k, although not really). Since you sold your car before that happened, I can see where they are coming from by not giving you the voucher. Sadly, it really just boils down to bad timing on your part I'm afraid.

Michael

ViperSmith, a few folks have posted comments like this above.

Yeah, I can see your unhappy about the depreciation you took on your '13, but you got out of the G5 before the voucher announcement and the re-pricing.

Dodge's plan was to try to make people whole when they chopped the pricing by $15K, not to reimburse past depreciation. And to try to make you whole you have to buy another viper.

At best those two events only hit your old G5 for another $10K in depreciation, who knows, could be more?? Call Exotic Motors, I'm sure they'd be happy to sell your car back for what they paid. Everyone in your situtation sold their G5 for at least $10K more than what there now worth after the new pricing. Also, everyone who bought a used G5 in the past 6 months just took a free $10K plus haircut too.

[ViperSmith]

ViperSmith, a few folks have posted comments like this above.

Yeah, I can see your unhappy about the depreciation you took on your '13, but you got out of the G5 before the voucher announcement and the re-pricing.

Dodge's plan was to try to make people whole when they chopped the pricing by $15K, not to reimburse past depreciation. And to try to make you whole you have to buy another viper.

At best those two events only hit your old G5 for another $10K in depreciation, who knows, could be more?? Call Exotic Motors, I'm sure they'd be happy to sell your car back for what they paid. Everyone in your situtation sold their G5 for at least $10K more than what there now worth after the new pricing. Also, everyone who bought a used G5 in the past 6 months just took a free $10K plus haircut too.

I think the voucher program was great, a good move.

I don't buy the whole "you benefited from selling before the price cut" - because (I assume since what TomBall is/was selling NineBalls car for) NineBall sold his for around what I sold mine for, AFTER the price cut.

I simply disagree with the "suckup and take it" guys. I just expect better - seeing many comments a lot of Gen V owners seem to agree.

If the situation is rectified somehow I'll be back in a Viper. If not, there are a lot more fun cars out there.

[theviper]

I totally understand your frustration, VS. I'd be upset too. But it's like the stock market. Timing is everything. I would ask this though: has Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren, Porsche, BMW, Audi, MB, Lexus, GM, Ford (you get the picture) ever offered buyers any voucher for the depreciation on their cars? I think it was a good gesture on Dodge's part. They definitely didn't have to do it. But based on the confusion, frustration, etc it has caused, I doubt they will ever do it again.

I wouldn't hold it against Dodge that you didn't qualify for the voucher. Rules are rules. You sold your stock one week too soon. That's what it boils down to. Yes, it sucks, but you can't hold it against the company that you sold your stock too soon. Buy a Viper again if you want one. Or buy the C7 Z06 if you want that. Your anger with Dodge (or your decision to sell) will pass much sooner than the continued thrill of owning your future car...whatever it may be.

[Rand1993]

First, I am not a GM/Chevy fan. I have a Gen1 Viper and a C7 Vette. I looked at Gen V Vipers but chose to buy the C7 because of non-cooperative Dodge/SRT dealers and no dealers with service knowledge within hundreds of miles. Money was not an issue. I am very dissapointed they pulled out of racing. The marketing has been a disaster. Now, even though the voucher program didn't affect me personally, I'm very glad I went with the C7. I am one very disillusioned Viper owner.

[05Commemorative]

Did you ever drive a Gen5?


First, I am not a GM/Chevy fan. I have a Gen1 Viper and a C7 Vette. I looked at Gen V Vipers but chose to buy the C7 because of non-cooperative Dodge/SRT dealers and no dealers with service knowledge within hundreds of miles. Money was not an issue. I am very dissapointed they pulled out of racing. The marketing has been a disaster. Now, even though the voucher program didn't affect me personally, I'm very glad I went with the C7. I am one very disillusioned Viper owner.

[GRNBGON]

Viper is a passion. Vettes are everywhere. If you do not get it, go to the vette. Dime a dozen.

[Rand1993]

Went to two different dealers. At one I couldn't even get a salesman to talk to me even though some were not with customers. The other dealer had two with dead batteries and was very put out that I wanted to drive one. If that's how they behave when selling, what do you think their service is like?

[Rand1993]

I do get it. I'm very passionate about the Viper. My point is simply that Dodge seems to be working hard to kill the passion.

[05Commemorative]

Gotcha. Now understand why happy with your C7. (don't know what you are missing, or atleast have not experienced the comparison. Your older gen is no comparison). Don't get me wrong, most dealers are lame, but I found when really showed serious, they let me drive. It was a hassle I admit, but that drive convinced me I had to have the car.


Went to two different dealers. At one I couldn't even get a salesman to talk to me even though some were not with customers. The other dealer had two with dead batteries and was very put out that I wanted to drive one. If that's how they behave when selling, what do you think their service is like?

[Swest]

Anyone tried asking nicely in Italian?:D

[Fatboy 18]

I do get it. I'm very passionate about the Viper. My point is simply that SRT/Dodge seems to be working hard to kill the passion.Great answer. Cant help but agree, there are so many posts and videos about poor dealership sales reps, stupid pricing, now some issues with discount vouchers, poor advertising. The car seems Great (reading owner experencies) but they sure have made some dreadful errors in the way this has gone to market, sad :(

[SilveRT8]

Anyone tried asking nicely in Italian?:D

Datse de way !

[plumcrazy]

Dodge will never do the right thing, its not what they do....

[Smog Dog]

I totally understand your frustration, VS. I'd be upset too. But it's like the stock market. Timing is everything. I would ask this though: has Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren, Porsche, BMW, Audi, MB, Lexus, GM, Ford (you get the picture) ever offered buyers any voucher for the depreciation on their cars? I think it was a good gesture on Dodge's part. They definitely didn't have to do it. But based on the confusion, frustration, etc it has caused, I doubt they will ever do it again.

I wouldn't hold it against Dodge that you didn't qualify for the voucher. Rules are rules. You sold your stock one week too soon. That's what it boils down to. Yes, it sucks, but you can't hold it against the company that you sold your stock too soon. Buy a Viper again if you want one. Or buy the C7 Z06 if you want that. Your anger with Dodge (or your decision to sell) will pass much sooner than the continued thrill of owning your future car...whatever it may be.

I agree that rules are rules. But it's too bad that all the rules were not announced when the voucher program was made public. That is where Dodge fumbled the ball. I am sure Harold would not be as frustrated if he had not been led to believe he qualified for the voucher. He has been a very loyal and vocal supporter of the Gen5. Maybe there is still some way he can get a voucher. Good luck ViperSmith!

Bill

[Policy Limits]

Don't even consider the base C7. Every corner. Z06 appears great but will run 100k loaded up and closely resembles the mass produced base. A Maserati 911 or Lotus are similar price points if u need more options and refuse to stay with Viper.

[2doorrocket]

First, I am not a GM/Chevy fan. I have a Gen1 Viper and a C7 Vette. I looked at Gen V Vipers but chose to buy the C7 because of non-cooperative Dodge/SRT dealers and no dealers with service knowledge within hundreds of miles. Money was not an issue. I am very dissapointed they pulled out of racing. The marketing has been a disaster. Now, even though the voucher program didn't affect me personally, I'm very glad I went with the C7. I am one very disillusioned Viper owner.

Lol... Marketing is a disaster huh... Mhmm... *COUGH* Beth Paretta had one job. Just one.

[Nine Ball]

Went to two different dealers. At one I couldn't even get a salesman to talk to me even though some were not with customers. The other dealer had two with dead batteries and was very put out that I wanted to drive one. If that's how they behave when selling, what do you think their service is like?

Come on now. You went to TWO dealerships and think all Dodge dealerships are the same? Then you justify your C7 purchase because of that? I call that giving up. You will never convince me that Chevy dealerships are any better than Dodge dealerships, and I own multiple GM's purchased new. Some dealerships from both brands are excellent, some suck. Even at times, those excellent dealerships have employees that simply suck. If I want something, and have "passion" for it, I don't give up. I go find a better source, some dealership that will appreciate my business. Most of the Houston area Chevy dealers suck. My last two new Corvette purchases came from Dallas and Detroit. I shop outside my zip code, no problem.

[Policy Limits]

New Jaguar is same price point as viper too. An F type was behind me & it looked like a California. Has Dodge style depreciation though so u might not like that.

[docwviper]

Had a 911 after my first gen V. Our second porsche. Great service and vehicle all the way throughout .

[VENOM V]

Went to two different dealers. At one I couldn't even get a salesman to talk to me even though some were not with customers. The other dealer had two with dead batteries and was very put out that I wanted to drive one. If that's how they behave when selling, what do you think their service is like?


Come on now. You went to TWO dealerships and think all Dodge dealerships are the same? Then you justify your C7 purchase because of that? I call that giving up. You will never convince me that Chevy dealerships are any better than Dodge dealerships, and I own multiple GM's purchased new. Some dealerships from both brands are excellent, some suck. Even at times, those excellent dealerships have employees that simply suck. If I want something, and have "passion" for it, I don't give up. I go find a better source, some dealership that will appreciate my business. Most of the Houston area Chevy dealers suck. My last two new Corvette purchases came from Dallas and Detroit. I shop outside my zip code, no problem.

Excellent perspective. Sorry to use Rand's post as an example because I wasn't there and those dealerships may have really been sub-par. However, the one thing that I have trouble believing is the extent in which some people accuse the dealerships of being so damned horrible. Maybe my dealership experiences have been the exception rather than the rule, but I don't believe that horrible dealerships are as common as some posts on this forum would indicate.

If someone can't get salesmen to even talk to them or respond to them seriously at two dealerships, perhaps it's time to look in the mirror. If one rolls into a dealership with a chip on their shoulder, if I were a salesman I wouldn't want to deal with that person either. I treat sales and service people with respect and courtesy, civility doesn't reduce my ability to bargain hard and get a good deal.

Don't get me wrong, I know there are scumbag sales guys and bad dealerships out there, but I can't believe it's as bad as some claim.

If I want a car bad enough, I find it hard to believe that a mediocre dealer experience is going to push me towards a car that I like less.

[VENOM V]

New Jaguar is same price point as viper too. An F type was behind me & it looked like a California. Has Dodge style depreciation though so u might not like that.

I was digging the F Type Jag until I read about it's funky "drifter" handling quirk as described by Randy Pobst in Motor Trend's latest comparo. Beautiful car, but not the track machine that it could have been.

[v10enomous]

The F-Type coupe is gorgeous but it's no Viper and you'll probably be able to get a lightly used example in two or 3 years in the mid $30k's. Jaguar resale is typically awful plus the car has a far cheaper entry model which doesn't help.

[swexlin]

There was an F-Type super-dooooper model at a show I attend 2 weeks ago, and holy schmoley, was that car gorgeous, loud, and equipped. However, not that I would kick it out of my garage, but it just didn't "speak" to me.

[Policy Limits]

Yeah the 100k range of z06, Lotus, maserati, jaguar, gtr, 911 and viper leads to the snake for performance, exclusivity, hand made, and biggest balls. Might be the most masculine car I've owned.

[allans]

Hmmm, I got two vouchers: one for my 13 and one for my 14. The 13 was traded in on the 14 so it was "sold" before the vouchers were issued. Seems to me if you bought the car you should get the voucher to compensate for the loss you have or might incur. I assume both of you above have actually realized that loss so, the intended reason for giving the vouchers has been clearly met. Good Luck. Allan

[allans]

Hmmm, I got two vouchers: one for my 13 and one for my 14. The 13 was traded in on the 14 so it was "sold" before the vouchers were issued. Seems to me if you bought the car you should get the voucher to compensate for the loss you have or might incur. I assume both of you above have actually realized that loss so, the intended reason for giving the vouchers has been clearly met. Good Luck. Allan

[Newport Viper]

Don't get me wrong, I know there are scumbag sales guys and bad dealerships out there, but I can't believe it's as bad as some claim.


It is. Tried to live/service Vipers in Orlando, SoCal, Hawaii, Las Vegas, NorCal over the last 17ish years. They all suck and they all have **** uped over and over and over. ( I have 140,000 miles driven)

http://www.bloodaze.com/uploads/8/8/2/1/8821381/s347149618671413876_p1249_i1_w286.jpeg

[99RT10]

http://www.bloodaze.com/uploads/8/8/2/1/8821381/s347149618671413876_p1249_i1_w286.jpeg

lol

[Nine Ball]

Anyone have the rules posted on the voucher and that flyer that came with it handy? Post the pics up please. I'd like to see where it says anything about having to still own the car, to be eligible. If it doesn't say that, then this situation is just wrong. I would post mine, but I used it already and don't have it.

[Snakebit10]

The G5 Viper deserved a better company behind it imho. It is a better car than the company that produced it sadly. I still say that in the hands of a competent company the G5 would probably have done better sales-wise. It might not have offered the bells and whistles needed by the majority but marketed correctly along with solid dealership experience, it surely would have resulted it much better sales at launch.

If the dealer network, marketing, alleged corporate shenanigans with vouchers etc are turning off tried and true Viper-heads just imagine what its doing to the masses that are used to much better ownership experience a la Porsche etc. How can you lure those buyers with ZERO of the high-end ownership experience available to most? I hope Tim realizes how deep of a problem he has with Dodge. It goes way beyond just the marketing failures. A car like the G5 Viper deserved better. Hopefully by Generation 6 it will have a company that's equal to the task on all counts imho.

[ViperSmith]

Anyone have the rules posted on the voucher and that flyer that came with it handy? Post the pics up please. I'd like to see where it says anything about having to still own the car, to be eligible. If it doesn't say that, then this situation is just wrong. I would post mine, but I used it already and don't have it.

Says nothing about eligibility

http://i.imgur.com/uD4TSGK.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/p4sp5Fr.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/1y1pewp.jpg

[Nine Ball]

There was also a paper that came with the voucher, that said some other stuff on it.

[Nine Ball]

I found the letter. It also says nothing about having to still own the car. In the middle paragraph, it says

"And - as an early purchaser of the 5th Generation Viper - we especially want you to benefit from the Viper's new positioning."

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_Voucher-Letter.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/Voucher-Letter.jpg.html)

Sure seems like you qualify as an "early purchaser", IMHO.

[F2V]

It's just a letter talking mostly about repositioning, and taking a bow for the $15k coupon. Says nothing about eligibility, or anything related to this thread. I understand Dodge verbal position on the matter...but their written document sent to us is quite another matter.

[ViperSmith]

I found the letter. It also says nothing about having to still own the car. In the middle paragraph, it says

"And - as an early purchaser of the 5th Generation Viper - we especially want you to benefit from the Viper's new positioning."

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_Voucher-Letter.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/Voucher-Letter.jpg.html)

Sure seems like you qualify as an "early purchaser", IMHO.

LOL I think all of us that ordered back in Nov 2012 were earlier purchasers!

[F2V]

Indeed, I remember you well from 'the early days'. I feel you are on solid ground, but you know what they say about fighting city hall. As another point, we all did recieve a clarification letter about a mistaken implication....a precendent? There has been no such letter regarding this particular situation, which certainly should have been addressed, but was obviously never considered.

[Nine Ball]

My take on this, is that it is referred to as a "Loyalty Voucher". Loyalty, being a reward for being an "early purchaser" of their product. Dropping $100,000+ early on a car, Dodge made their money on that transaction. Had this been called a "Depreciation Voucher", then I would agree that selling the car early would remove you from the eligibility. But, this was never referred to as a depreciation voucher.

[Voice of Reason]

I sure am glad I'm married to my lawyer should anything like this ever come up for me.

[canadian viper]

i have a letter that says you have to own the car. if someone want to pm me their email, i will send it to you to post.

[Unorthodox]

i have a letter that says you have to own the car. if someone want to pm me their email, i will send it to you to post.

Just post it!

[Policy Limits]

News flash: cars are depreciating assets. Lol

[Nine Ball]

i have a letter that says you have to own the car. if someone want to pm me their email, i will send it to you to post.

Thanks for sending that, Shawn. This appears to be an information brochure intended for dealers, not something that was sent to the public. But, Shawn is correct, it does mention having to currently own the car. See page 5.

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-1.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-1.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-2.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-2.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-3.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-3.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-4.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-4.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-5.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-5.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-6.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-6.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-7.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-7.jpg.html)

http://i466.photobucket.com/albums/rr29/ynotdv8/2014%20Viper%20TA/th_viper-whats-new-8.jpg (http://s466.photobucket.com/user/ynotdv8/media/2014%20Viper%20TA/viper-whats-new-8.jpg.html)

[05Commemorative]

I have difficulty understand why so many think this is/should be more than it is. The "loyalty" aspect was for early purchasers that still have the car.

Lets say I bought an early one (say for full price to add emphasis) and then sold it 6 months later (for a loss) and now a year later this announcement comes out. Why would I think for a second I deserved this reward?

The only difference of what I described and the example here in this thread is timing of when I sold it. Come on now, the "loyalty" aspect is for those that are still loyal to the car and the only way to prove that loyalty is by "owning" one now.

[Schen]

Are you missing the point? There is nothing, NOTHING about being a current owner under eligibility in the coupon owners got. The dealer version does, so since someone posted the info on the owners coupon prior to the post Tony put up I could see how Harold's feathers might have been ruffled calling people and not getting a direct answer. Everything was being stated as 'recent Viper buyers' of the 2013/2014 Gen V. We are in the age of internet, things move fast. It sucks, things should be a little more clearer.

--RS

[05Commemorative]

Not missing anything. the coupon is for the owners that received it. They don't need to describe the rules more as that is part of the criteria who they sent it to. Everyone understood in the beginning it was for early buyers that still owned them. Said nothing about recent "sellers". That was stated in other posts and threads before. Why in the world would you offer an reward to someone that bought your product and then decided to sell it. Makes no sense as what are the odds that person wanting to buy back into the brand. sure, always some examples, but not many. This is a bunch of discussion for an extremely small number of individuals.

Folks getting too caught up in what is written. Again, go to my example above. Why would you think a non-owner or "recent seller" should get a coupon? Lets not confuse clarity with desire. The clarity was there from the beginning. Even in this thread, most of the discussion is not about the clarity, but more on the feeling that somehow Dodge should offer this for recent sellers.

Are you missing the point? There is nothing, NOTHING about being a current owner under eligibility in the coupon owners got. The dealer version does, so since someone posted the info on the owners coupon prior to the post Tony put up I could see how Harold's feathers might have been ruffled calling people and not getting a direct answer. Everything was being stated as 'recent Viper buyers' of the 2013/2014 Gen V. We are in the age of internet, things move fast. It sucks, things should be a little more clearer.

--RS

[TrackAire]

The reality is even if the Gen 5 owner sold his car and was still able to use the $15k voucher, how many would actually go buy another Viper? I'm guessing the majority of the $15k vouchers will go unused.

How many ex-Gen 5 Viper owners are we talking about that actually care enough to know that a voucher is potentially available? 20 or 30 total? Even though it is a $15k voucher, I guarantee not every ex-Gen 5 owner will go buy a new Viper. After looking at the numbers, I really don't see that many owners trading in a perfectly good Gen 5 on another if they already got a good deal before the $15K reduction and now the $15k voucher. Selling or trading in your existing Gen 5 and buying a new Gen 5 means having to now pay sales tax and registration costs....which you just did on the last Gen 5.

Come on Dodge, why even allow this discussion to be happening? If there is nothing in the printed paperwork you sent owners mentioning the word "existing owner", you're opening yourself up for a lot of negative press and eventually a lawsuit (I honestly can't see how the ex-Gen 5 owners could lose).

This will probably be on Jalopnik by Monday morning....more marketing and PR brilliance by the Dodge camp.

[ViperSmith]

Edit: nevermind.

[Nine Ball]

I have difficulty understand why so many think this is/should be more than it is. The "loyalty" aspect was for early purchasers that still have the car.

Lets say I bought an early one (say for full price to add emphasis) and then sold it 6 months later (for a loss) and now a year later this announcement comes out. Why would I think for a second I deserved this reward?

The only difference of what I described and the example here in this thread is timing of when I sold it. Come on now, the "loyalty" aspect is for those that are still loyal to the car and the only way to prove that loyalty is by "owning" one now.

Strongly disagree. Anyone that opens his wallet to buy a $100,000+ toy, has shown their loyalty to that brand. What they decide to do with the toy after that, is NOBODY'S business. What if that car were wrecked/totaled, or stolen? Do those buyers get screwed, too? If Dodge earned the money on the sale, that is the only thing that matters.

if anything, anyone who bought a car later on, at steep discounts from MSRP, are they considered less loyal than those of us who pre-ordered at MSRP? All this defining of "loyal" isn't necessary. It should be simple. If you bought a new car, you should get the voucher. Simple.

[KickAsp]

Strongly disagree. Anyone that opens his wallet to buy a $100,000+ toy, has shown their loyalty to that brand. What they decide to do with the toy after that, is NOBODY'S business. What if that car were wrecked/totaled, or stolen? Do those buyers get screwed, too? If Dodge earned the money on the sale, that is the only thing that matters.

if anything, anyone who bought a car later on, at steep discounts from MSRP, are they considered less loyal than those of us who pre-ordered at MSRP? All this defining of "loyal" isn't necessary. It should be simple. If you bought a new car, you should get the voucher. Simple.

Tony I couldn't agree more!

[RAY W]

The real thing Dodge needs to understand is that giving a voucher to a person that has already sold their car does a few positive things.
The voucher may not even get used. So that costs zero. Ticking off a 100K customer will certainly cost a lot. The used Gen V that was already traded or sold won't muddy up the purchase of a new Viper due to a dealer not wanting to take or give a good price on the trade.
Maybe one more Viper would be removed from the 400 that are left. Lastly hasn't Dodge learned their lesson yet about pissing off their real buyers.

[FLATOUT]

Your last sentence is the most important, and no that's the one thing they are farthest away from figuring out.



The real thing Dodge needs to understand is that giving a voucher to a person that has already sold their car does a few positive things.
The voucher may not even get used. So that costs zero. Ticking off a 100K customer will certainly cost a lot. The used Gen V that was already traded or sold won't muddy up the purchase of a new Viper due to a dealer not wanting to take or give a good price on the trade.
Maybe one more Viper would be removed from the 400 that are left. Lastly hasn't Dodge learned their lesson yet about pissing off their real buyers.

[Chorps]

The reality is even if the Gen 5 owner sold his car and was still able to use the $15k voucher, how many would actually go buy another Viper? I'm guessing the majority of the $15k vouchers will go unused.

How many ex-Gen 5 Viper owners are we talking about that actually care enough to know that a voucher is potentially available? 20 or 30 total? Even though it is a $15k voucher, I guarantee not every ex-Gen 5 owner will go buy a new Viper. After looking at the numbers, I really don't see that many owners trading in a perfectly good Gen 5 on another if they already got a good deal before the $15K reduction and now the $15k voucher. Selling or trading in your existing Gen 5 and buying a new Gen 5 means having to now pay sales tax and registration costs....which you just did on the last Gen 5.

Come on Dodge, why even allow this discussion to be happening? If there is nothing in the printed paperwork you sent owners mentioning the word "existing owner", you're opening yourself up for a lot of negative press and eventually a lawsuit (I honestly can't see how the ex-Gen 5 owners could lose).

This will probably be on Jalopnik by Monday morning....more marketing and PR brilliance by the Dodge camp.

I totally agree with this. Guy who had and sold a Gen V can be lured back into the fold with a coupon, or go to another brand? What part of salesmanship doesn't anyone get?

[05Commemorative]

are we discussing salesmanship or something else? IF salesmanship, then lets just discuss that without all the emotion listed. If about salesmanship, then we would just be talking about how dodge could sell more vipers.

If salesmanship was the goal and real issue, why not offer coupons to friends, relatives, etc. Heck, why not offer to anyone that owned any prior version viper in the past? That would be salesmanship, but are we upset they did not offer it to gen3/4 owners? No. Why? because we are not talking about salesmanship are we...


I totally agree with this. Guy who had and sold a Gen V can be lured back into the fold with a coupon, or go to another brand? What part of salesmanship doesn't anyone get?

[Coloviper]

I think the emotions are coming out wrong here. The point of the voucher was to reward people who bought a 13 or 14, plain and simple. They overpaid $15k to fund the race program, which is wrong or they overpaid $15k because the car was priced too high which is wrong. Semantics that mean nothing. That was the price of admission rewarded.

It is idiotic, stupid and just plain dumb to put a condition, that you have to still own your purchase. That is getting too much into people's lives. Hell Dodge should base the refund on sending a unverified car to !otor Trend to get slaughtered. That stunt brought the price down the most on resale.

Dodge needs to wake up and grow up. Replace this insane lawyer crew they have and hire a more business friendly counsel. To not send a voucher to a previous original owner of a 13 or 14 is a bonehead move as all you do is alienate and piss off someone who did buy and can afford to buy again. It is anti-sales 101. It is as bad as not including the Viper in their final solution event of 0% financing for 72 months. All ads and commercials says ALL Dodge products. Small print in commercial does not say excludes SRT. Their website just does not talk about it at all. What does it matter if it is a $60k whatever or a $85k Viper. It accomplishes the same thing.

The Dodge company has fantastic products, awesome marketing commercials and ads (sans Viper) but their sales, back office and management is clueless. It is like they are deliberately working hard at being insignificant.

Bottom line is not including all original 13 and 14 Viper owners just st creates even more hostility in certain situations as opposed to just solving the original problem. I don't get it! Fix it all for all, done. Happy customer is a higher percentage of repeat customer. Come on Dodge! And include Viper in 0% big event for those of us not in access or the cash norborn with the silver spoon in our mouths.

[Smog Dog]

It should be simple. If you bought a new car, you should get the voucher. Simple.

Agree with Nine Ball, keep it simple.
But especially, if you were an early buyer, like ViperSmith, and got hit with MSRP, sold the car or not---you deserve the voucher. Hell, those who placed orders in November 2012 deserve 2 vouchers and should be able to stack them. My order was entered into the system 5 minutes after it opened up. My car was delivered 7 weeks before SRT started building the 2014's. Talk about instant depreciation! Give the guy a voucher.

Bill

[Policy Limits]

U guys stress over nothing. I doubt the car will even be in production for more than 2-3 additional years. Just a hunch.

[ViperSmith]

U guys stress over nothing. I doubt the car will even be in production for more than 2-3 additional years. Just a hunch.

$15,000 is hardly nothing

[theviper]

What they should have done and still can do is an idea I had suggested to many people at SRT in Feb 2012. Give all Gen IV and Gen V owners (who bought new) a voucher. We are the brand's best marketing tool. Somehow, even after all of the fallout over the last couple years, this idea seems to still not make sense to them. The best they can do now is to allow at least all current and previous Gen V owners (who bought new) the 15K voucher and despite the winter, I think most of the remaining inventory will be sold.

[theviper]

U guys stress over nothing. I doubt the car will even be in production for more than 2-3 additional years. Just a hunch.

I think it will be if they can get people excited about the car again. I think they are trying to salvage the brand and the vibe behind the Viper. Otherwise, they could have just let SRT marketing continue down the path of destruction. But in the process of doing that, certain people are still with the brand that don't get customer service for die-hard Viper owners...I won't mention her name. As frustrated as many people here may be about the voucher program, remember 3 things. Dodge did not have to do any voucher program, no one has done it before, and if the VOA members are complaining, who is left in the Viper's corner to cheer it on.

If we want the Viper to succeed, we need to hope that the people at Dodge seriously start listening to some of us. At the same time, we should continue discussing the awesome aspects of the Viper (not to mention that it remains the best bang for the buck in its category).

[Policy Limits]

It's 15k more than Maserati gave me on a new car I bought at the same time for the same price that has had the same amount of depreciation. SRT didn't need to do what they did, and I'd be surprised to learn if an auto manufacturer has ever done this in history. Sorry u didn't get one. I may or may not use mine at all.

[viperprowler1]

Regardless of what it says, I truly hope it can be worked out for you...but I doubt it based on what I am about to write here:

This is taken verbatim from Dodge's email to their dealers:

Customer letter sent to: "All existing 2013 and 2014 MY Viper owners".

Eligibility: "Any existing 5th Generation Viper owner or household member that bought new and still owns a 2013 or 2014 Viper".

As you can see, you have to still own the car. It's rough, but it is what it says. That doesn't mean that they should not be able to work out something much as a dealer would work out a deal with a retail buyer so as not to lose the sale or the loyalty of the Viper loyalists. I wish you well. You are probably not alone. The point is to sell Vipers and to keep Viper owners and intenders happy and loyal! Mike

[swexlin]

I think it will be if they can get people excited about the car again. I think they are trying to salvage the brand and the vibe behind the Viper. Otherwise, they could have just let SRT marketing continue down the path of destruction. But in the process of doing that, certain people are still with the brand that don't get customer service for die-hard Viper owners...I won't mention her name. As frustrated as many people here may be about the voucher program, remember 3 things. Dodge did not have to do any voucher program, no one has done it before, and if the VOA members are complaining, who is left in the Viper's corner to cheer it on.

If we want the Viper to succeed, we need to hope that the people at Dodge seriously start listening to some of us. At the same time, we should continue discussing the awesome aspects of the Viper (not to mention that it remains the best bang for the buck in its category).

Driving the car will open MANY people up to the car. Ready my First and Second Impressions posts. Dodge Marketing should read those posts. I would be happy to be their spokesperson. The masse need to know how awesome, and the bang for the buck this car represents. It is a world class performance car, period. I was at a show today with McLaren P1, and 3 Gen 5s. As awesome the McLaren was, guess which cars also got the same amount of attention?

[allans]

Hmmm, I got two vouchers: one for my 13 and one for my 14. The 13 was traded in on the 14 so it was "sold" before the vouchers were issued. Seems to me if you bought the car you should get the voucher to compensate for the loss you have or might incur. I assume both of you above have actually realized that loss so, the intended reason for giving the vouchers has been clearly met. Good Luck. Allan

REPEAT, Hear is your justification. If they tell me one of mine is void - that's OK. Allan

[Policy Limits]

Driving the car will open MANY people up to the car. Ready my First and Second Impressions posts. Dodge Marketing should read those posts. I would be happy to be their spokesperson. The masse need to know how awesome, and the bang for the buck this car represents. It is a world class performance car, period. I was at a show today with McLaren P1, and 3 Gen 5s. As awesome the McLaren was, guess which cars also got the same amount of attention?

There's the problem. Lots of these yuppies with dough can't even operate a manual transmission. So they couldn't drive it if they wanted to. They want flappy paddles and cup holders. Pussies. Lol

[Chorps]

are we discussing salesmanship or something else? IF salesmanship, then lets just discuss that without all the emotion listed. If about salesmanship, then we would just be talking about how dodge could sell more vipers.

If salesmanship was the goal and real issue, why not offer coupons to friends, relatives, etc. Heck, why not offer to anyone that owned any prior version viper in the past? That would be salesmanship, but are we upset they did not offer it to gen3/4 owners? No. Why? because we are not talking about salesmanship are we...

You still are talking about salesmanship with retaining customers. The coupon could be offered to outside people but this is supposed to be a salve for the people who paid full ticket for the car before it was repriced. Widening the discussion isn't the point of this thread, but the reasons on why ViperSmith isn't eligible is ridiculous, and any exec who wanted to sell more Vipers should have have taken his call and overridden the (hidden) rule.

[theviper]

There's the problem. Lots of these yuppies with dough can't even operate a manual transmission. So they couldn't drive it if they wanted to. They want flappy paddles and cup holders. Pussies. Lol

Awesome!

[TIME]

Awesome!

What they said.

[Unorthodox]

Strongly disagree. Anyone that opens his wallet to buy a $100,000+ toy, has shown their loyalty to that brand. What they decide to do with the toy after that, is NOBODY'S business. What if that car were wrecked/totaled, or stolen? Do those buyers get screwed, too? If Dodge earned the money on the sale, that is the only thing that matters.

if anything, anyone who bought a car later on, at steep discounts from MSRP, are they considered less loyal than those of us who pre-ordered at MSRP? All this defining of "loyal" isn't necessary. It should be simple. If you bought a new car, you should get the voucher. Simple.

'Loyalty' was probably the wrong name for the voucher, based on who Dodge has said is elligible. 'Depreciation' voucher would have been a better name for it IMO, just less catchy.
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _______________________________

The people who will really made out like bandits are the guys who got a good deal on their GenV before the vouchers were announced, as I believe they are elligible for the 15k coupon. Good timing.

Dodge knew that dropping the MSRP on the Viper by 15k would really hurt, even more, the resale value of those who had GenV's when that news was announced; although, I don't believe it effectively dropped their resale by 15k (probably more like 5-10k). That's, based on everything I've seen, why they provided current Viper owners with the voucher and not because they had to.

At the end of the day, I think it boils down to crap timing and unfortunately, that's just life. I wish I knew what the stock market is going to do tomorrow, but I don't.

ViperSmith....to say you are out 15k because Dodge won't give you a voucher because you aren't a current Viper owner is inaccurate, the way I see it. Fact is, you likely sold/traded in your car for 5-10k more than you could do so today, so really you would only be out 5-10k on the purchase of a brand new Viper. Needless to say, there are probably much better deals to be had on slightly used cars, of which the vouchers aren't elligible on anyways.

That's my 2 cents, for what they're worth. At the end of the day, these are all 'First World Problems'. If you really want an eye opener, come over here to Africa and I guarantee you will have a different outlook on these sorts of issues.

Michael

[Policy Limits]

LMFBO!!!!!!!

Quarantine dallas!

[ViperSmith]

'Loyalty' was probably the wrong name for the voucher, based on who Dodge has said is elligible. 'Depreciation' voucher would have been a better name for it IMO, just less catchy.
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _______________________________

The people who will really made out like bandits are the guys who got a good deal on their GenV before the vouchers were announced, as I believe they are elligible for the 15k coupon. Good timing.

Dodge knew that dropping the MSRP on the Viper by 15k would really hurt, even more, the resale value of those who had GenV's when that news was announced; although, I don't believe it effectively dropped their resale by 15k (probably more like 5-10k). That's, based on everything I've seen, why they provided current Viper owners with the voucher and not because they had to.

At the end of the day, I think it boils down to crap timing and unfortunately, that's just life. I wish I knew what the stock market is going to do tomorrow, but I don't.

ViperSmith....to say you are out 15k because Dodge won't give you a voucher because you aren't a current Viper owner is inaccurate, the way I see it. Fact is, you likely sold/traded in your car for 5-10k more than you could do so today, so really you would only be out 5-10k on the purchase of a brand new Viper. Needless to say, there are probably much better deals to be had on slightly used cars, of which the vouchers aren't elligible on anyways.

That's my 2 cents, for what they're worth. At the end of the day, these are all 'First World Problems'. If you really want an eye opener, come over here to Africa and I guarantee you will have a different outlook on these sorts of issues.

Michael

Read allans post, the issue is clearly laid out and where your point falls to pieces.


Hmmm, I got two vouchers: one for my 13 and one for my 14. The 13 was traded in on the 14 so it was "sold" before the vouchers were issued. Seems to me if you bought the car you should get the voucher to compensate for the loss you have or might incur. I assume both of you above have actually realized that loss so, the intended reason for giving the vouchers has been clearly met. Good Luck. Allan

[Unorthodox]

Obviously my reading comprehension is lacking because I missed the fact that he got 2 vouchers; although my guess would be that it was in error.

Michael

[ViperSmith]

:).

[JonB ~ PartsRack]

:).

Can I quote you ?!?!?