Fifth Third Auto Leasing
Ripoff threatening dishonest

I signed paper work to purchase a vehicle at a dealership in Columbus, Ohio, July. They contacted me a few weeks later and said the plates came in and I would need to come by and pick them up. Around the begining of Sept. I called the dealership to inform them I hadn't received the payment books and they said there was something that I missed signing on my paperwork.

I went there and thought it was strange that they pointed me to the leasing department but went and waited for my appt. The lady called me in the office and laid out a couple pieces of paper that did not have my signature on it. She said this is what's holding things up. After reading the information, there were different papers including in my paperwork that, in small print, stated the vehicle was a lease. I explained to her that I never signed for a lease, it was to purchase the vehicle. She explained there was nothing she could do.

After yelling and getting no where with her or the manager, I said I would turn in this vehicle, just return the car I traded in on it. Well, of course "the car is already sold or "I'm not sure where it is". I was furious! I wrote letters, called anyone who would answer the phone but nothing happened and no one wanted to listen.

My fiance and I move to Las Vegas in 2001. Sept. 11 happened and our hours were cut. I called Fifth Third to explain the situation and they said you better make sure your payments are made that's all that matters. I've never been late or missed a payment until Nov. 2001. They called me at home, cell and work everyday, told me to "sell my furniture, borrow money from loan sharks, ask your family, get a second job". Not only did I hear this at home but they started calling my employer, leaving messages on my managers voice mail explaining the situation to her. I WAS HUMILIATED!

Around the first of April after still being harrassed for the 'back payments'. I contacted them again to see what could be done or to buy the vehicle 'out right'. They said to buy the vehicle would cost $23,000, I said that's ridiculous considering it's only worth around $9,000 blue book value and I could buy a new one for that price. They opened a VISA acct. For the back balance that was owed, did I ever sign anything, NO. I recieved a bill in the mail, called them and they said there was nothing they could do now since the acct. Was already made.

I've been trying for 4 months to get them to come and pick up the vehicle (bcs. I'm turning it in) but to no avail. I already have an attorney looking into this.
My word of advise... Do not deal with fifth third auto leasing!

Company: Fifth Third Auto Leasing
Country: USA
State: Ohio
City: Cincinnati
Address: 38 Fountain Sq. Plaza

  <     >