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The ultimate slap in the face and total disregard for loyal Audi owners.  The local dealership, Rick Hill Imports, Kingsport, Tennessee had been an Audi dealer for over 30 years.  They also sale Porche, BMW, and Mercedes.  Audi terminated the dealer relationship two weeks ago with no notice - no problem as I respect the business decision made by whomever(although the Audi mechanic with 15 years experience and the best service department ever experienced was here).  Audi has yet, nor does it plan to notify the 100+ local buyers with cars under the Audi service plan about this situation.  My calls and emails to Audi Customer Service department refer me to either of 2 other dealers - each 2 hours from our area.  Needless to say, the service at these dealers will not include loaners and will comsume an entire day each visit.

Anyone had experience with manufacturer like this?  I have my 2004 Audi A6 S line with 16,000 miles for sale and have found its value is greatly dimenished in the area due to lack of a dealer... A double stab!  As much as I like Audi vehicles, the local dealer's service department was the most important criteria for my purchase.  Any feedback would be appreciated.  Thanks  

contractorbob:

First of all, I apologize for the 'anonymous' screen name.  However, I am an employee of Rick Hill Imports and cannot divulge my identity.

You are right about this situation being a slap in the face.  However, Audi of North America is not entirely to blame.  Rick Hill has, for years, refused to cooperate in any with with Audi's dealer franchise requirements.  He never put up a sign, never had Audi designated showroom space, etc, etc.  Audi has been warning him, and trying to get him to cooperate for years.  Yet, he still refused.  When the ultimatim was given to him - comply or loose your franchise - he still chose not to comply.  You can't blame Audi of North America for wanting their dealers to give SOME kind of indication that they are in the Audi business.  So, if anyone has slapped local customers in the face, it is Rick Hill - and not Audi of North America.  Also, it is Rick's responsibility (and not Audi's) to contact each and every one of his customers to let them know that he no longer sells or services Audis.  He obviously doesn't value his longtime, loyal customers enough to take the time to write a letter explaining what has taken place.  

Those of us who are merely employees for this man were (and still are) very sad to see Audi go.  

Two other points:  Our Audi technitian has 30 years experience working on Audis - not 15, and he is heartbroken at the loss of such a fine product.  Secondly, Harper Audi in Knoxville, TN has said that they will give anyone from our area a loaner car if they need one.  Obviously, it's still an entire day out of your week to get service - but that does help some.

I hope that this has helped you understand more about what actually took place.  I, for one, apologize for the inconvenience that you and all the other Audi customers are suffering because of Rick Hill's inconsiderate nature.