I recently turned in a 2005 Volvo XC90. The car was turned in a month early. I turned the car in with 13,000 miles UNDER the mileage allowance. The car was not "perfect" - but it had NO dings, dents, dimples or anything that could be considered "excessive wear and tear." I even took it to the carwash and had both interior and exterior washed before it was picked up.
When I called for instructions on how to turn in the vehicle, Wells Fargo Auto Finance told me to make sure I took pictures of the car, because the company that picks up the car is not Wells Fargo, but someone they hire to tow the cars. I made sure I had pictures of the car based on this conversation. Then I received a call from Mannheim from a woman who could barely speak English. There were small children in the background screaming. On the day of the pickup, the driver called to ask what city we were in, because he could not find the address. He came and then towed the car behind a flatbed truck, with cables draped down the sides.
To my surprise, I got a bill for $441.66 for excessive wear. The bill simply advised to check the lease agreement for what that meant. I checked my agreement and the website descriptions and could not imagine what could cost $441.00. I demanded an itemization. They sent a "damage report" that was written by the same company that towed the vehicle - Mannheim Auto Auctions. It listed over 8 dents, covering almost every panel that were 1-2" across. The estimated parts and labor on that report totalled over $1,700. Why am I being charged $441? Is there some type of formula, or do they just pick an amount they think will not be objected to? I think there is some type of financial incentive for Mannheim to either purposefully damage the car, or to create a false report.
I have been told to send pictures, but in the meantime, within a week of my dispute letter, I am getting a collection notice with threats to damage my credit. I am so angry about this.
Wells Fargo Auto Finance can apparently ask for any amount they want.
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