Calgary man can't get truck fixed despite warranty
2013 vehicle has problem with 4-wheel drive, ignition
A Calgary man is going public with his frustration about trying to get his vehicle fixed under warranty.
Michael Rae bought a Dodge Ram diesel truck for work in 2013. He has experienced ongoing problems with the vehicle.
He says the four-wheel drive will often not engage and other times it won't turn off. He says he has been stranded in -30 C weather because he couldn't get the truck into four-wheel drive at a work site.
"I've been stuck in the truck more times than I can tell you," he said.
Rae also demonstrated to CBC that the key gets stuck in the ignition on a regular basis.
Rae bought an extended warranty when he purchased the vehicle and he says he is getting the runaround from the dealership and the manufacturer.
The truck has been in for servicing four times, but the dealer is unable to replicate the problems.
The dealer, Crowfoot Dodge, says Chrysler Canada is looking into the problem.
Phil Edmonston, author of the Lemon Aid series of consumer car guides, says Rae should contact Chrysler's legal department.
"You should get what you pay for," he said. "A vehicle should be suitable for the purpose that it was purchased and it's very clear from all the laws."
Rae says if Chrysler is unable to fix the problems, he wants the company to buy the truck back.
Arbitration program available
Scott Freilinger from Drumheller, Alta., said he experienced a similar situation with his 2013 Ford Escape.
He said his vehicle had electrical issues, and the dealership was unable to find the source.
The Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) was recommended to him, which offers a cross-Canada program to help resolve disputes with a manufacturer about vehicle defects or how the vehicle warranty is being applied.
Disputes are resolved through binding arbitration.
"We applied to the program to see what would happen and we ended up getting bought out," he said.
Rae said he was aware of the program, but was concerned that once the arbitration program was implemented the consumer would not be able to go to court if they were unhappy with the outcome.