Bob Returns: Dealer Pumped for Coming ‘08 Production, ‘09 Rollout
Apr 2, 2008 at 1:27PMBy Bob Frederick
RLD Dealer Contributor
It’s hard to believe, but the day that many, myself included, have been waiting for is only a few weeks away! The day is coming when the first Production ‘08 Dodge Challenger SRT8 will roll off the line!
The wait is just about over- The first ones should start to hit showrooms by the end of April or early May. Unbelievable!
If you’re one of the lucky few who’s getting an ‘08, congratulations!
I’ve enjoyed being a part of the Dodge blog RLD so far- it’s fun to interact with all of you fellow Challenger fans and hear what your desires are for the ’09’s and beyond.
With the introduction of the ‘09 Challenger Models at the New York Show, many of the questions that you had were answered, in fact some that I had were answered as well. Three models were unveiled,one for every budget and I think we’re all pretty impressed with each of them. Whether it’s a 3.5 V6 powered SE, a new VVT 5.7 Hemi R/T,or a 425 Horsepower SRT8, it seems like Dodge has us covered. My personal favorite of all has to be the optional 6-Speed Manual with a Pistol Grip shifter in the R/T and SRT8’s!
Like I’ve said in many of my comments here on RLD- Keep your comments and suggestions coming!
Even though everyone has their own opinion, one thing thing seems to be pretty much universally agreed upon: We want to be able to individualize our Challengers right from the factory- From all the original Hi-Impact colors, a few at a time, phased in and out, available on all models several times per year, to stripe choices, to special equipment like Hood Pins, Shaker Hood, Tuff Steering Wheel, more wheel choices, Convertible etc.
‘09 Challenger pricing and ordering info should be out sometime in May, so get ready!
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109 Comments
Will the ‘09 Hemi with 380 hp have a gas guzzler tax?
I would have bet money that the 08’s would have hit the road and orders for 09’s taken by the time the Dodge Challenger 500 takes place on May 10. It doesn’t look like that’s going to happen. Should at least be a Chally pace car.
I would like to personally thank my Dodge dealer for charging $20k over invoice for an 08 Challenger. It seems now after listening to all of these stories, they did me a big favor when I walked out with my check in hand. I am now anxiously waiting for the call when they ask, “Do you want to come in and order an ‘09?” My reply, “I didn’t know you sold Camaros”
Thanks everybody! I appreciate the nice words. Like “Notsure” said before-”We’re all in this together”!
Bob
Bod should get dealer of the year no doubt!
Looks like things are rolling along now, check out Bob Fredericks latest information post. Way to go Bob, I think you should get “Dealer of the year” from Dodge. Without the information you have supplied to us,we would all be in the dark, and pulling our hair out. Thanks again ! ! ! !
p.s. thanks for any help
thanks for your feed back.
i was given the build sheet with the von numbers when i bought my cars.
i called customer support yesterday they gave me the vin numbers for my cars and i explained what was going on with the dealer. customer support told me they would talk to the dealer and get back with me that same day, and no
one has called me back.
so i called chrysler business center in addison tx. talked with lynn white she was very nice to talk with, she told someone would get back with me so far no one has called me back. i purchased on dec 28 07
Good news , Just got my vin number today from
customer service rep.
NOTSURE, thanks for the support and it was nice to chat with you. Now for Frank Schmidt, or anyone else in BG status, you need to be getting the VON number from they Dealership you dealt with. If they don’t have one then chances are your not going get a car.(or at least an 08 anyway).Most Dealers are extremely concerned about custom service because the Dealership CSI (customer service index) is a “HUGE” Factor for the dealership when it deals with the factory. Also please remember everybody, if your getting the run-a-round from your Dealership, then go to customer service at 1-800-992-1997 an register a complaint against the dealership. That’s what I did, and all of the sudden the “owner” of the dealership was involved. But REMEMBER, be fair and give the Dealership a chance to resolve the issue before calling with a complaint. The whole Challenger thing is a “total” mess with every dealer I have talked to, because many times deposits were taken way before Dodge announced production numbers, or announced that Dealers would only get 1 or 2 cars at best. Now they look bad, and have customers that are really upset with them because they accepted a deposit and now can’t deliver a car. Hang in there……….
Dont believe a word you were the 1st or 2nd car because many have been told that. The dealer must give you a von number and than you call cutomer service and you will get the real answer on your car status because this is how they track it before a vin is established . If you bought the car and payed down you need to get on the phone now and get your number.I will be calling my number in this week .Dealers that have not called their buyers by this time . Shame on you CSI!
RE: turasque, My order is still in BG. I am first in line at my dealer. I have called Customer service every Monday since February. So far the girl named Jen is the only person who seems to know the meaning of the word service.
I called customer service today and my car is still in “BG” status. The service rep. could not tell me any reason why it is. Mine is the 2nd order at my dealer. I’m hoping it makes the final cut. Does anyone else have a car in “BG” status?
THERE ARE 250 CARS INSIDE THE GATE NOW. WE WILL BE SEEING CARS BY NEXT WEEKEND!
I finally got some information that was confirmed by both dodge customer support and my dealer. Word is that if you have an ‘08 in D status, you can get the exact date that it went into D status from customer support. The exact delivery date to the dealership is 4-6 weeks from the day the car was bumped to D status. This puts the first delivery of cars on 28 April at the earliest and the second week of May at the latest. I’m counting down the days now!
help! i just talk to my dodge dealer he told me that all orders have been canceled he wanted to send me my money back. i ordered two challenger orange &black. they cashed my checks months ago. i have talked to my lawyer if i have to i will sue them. are any of you having this problem? thanks frank
Good for you capitalcarz Id say your on your way this is very good news I hope all works out buddy and know this it aint over till you are out of the lot..
Seems like a alot to put up with for a darn car but as long as you get what you paid for and your happy that is all that counts here.
Good for you !!!!!!!!!!!
Keep on keeping on.
Surprise, Surprise, I called Customer service and my car is back in “D” status and with the same VIN number they had given me before. I called the Business Manager (who promised to get back to me and never did) and he said “Oh yeah we got it back in the schedule, and all is okay now.” I told him that this has been the “THIRD” time he has said he would get back to me and NEVER has. His reply was, I figured you would call Customer Service on your own so there was no need to call you. I then said, “That’s a hell of a way to treat a customer who has given you a $5,000.00 cash deposit over a year ago, and has agreed to pay MSRP plus the $5,000.00. I think Dodge should mandate that to it’s dealers that FULL MSRP is the max they can charge. The Dealership I am dealing with has put a bad taste in my mouth for Dodge all together. The aggressive behavior and the verbal abuse I have tolerated is deplorable at best. Good Lord, after all “We are the customers” !!!!!
It seems that greed has taken over many Dodge dealerships. I put a deposit on the Challenger four days after Dodge announced it was a “go”, in July of 2006. My dealer would not give me a contract, demanded a $10,000 deposit, which I obliged, told me the cost would be in the 40,s. Come to find out my cost has since gone up over $60,000; not to mention the other party who has a signed contract for the same car. The dealership is getting only one car. That’s called fraud. They gave me the VIN number. In the meantime, the other person with the contract said he is not getting the car. The Connecticut State’s Attorney General office is acting on his behalf, I have spoken to them several times too. I must say, this is by far the worst experience I have ever been a part of. If Dodge values their customer base, they had better dictate some ground rules for their dealers to follow. Abiding by the law is a good start. I had enough insight to put money down on July 8, 2006, yet I still find myself getting screwed. What is the purpose of going to a dealer and getting hosed when I could have gone on e-bay and secured the same car for at least $10,000 less than what they are trying to get out of my hide. I have such a bad taste in my mouth now, that I’m ready to go with something else.
That is identical what happened to me.I had a major falling out with my dealer on the so called first challenger to hit their lot.They told me it went to the dealers buddy.I was at that dealership last spring to get this deal in motion. I dont take kindly to being hosed like that.
There is no way Id do any business with that dealer after the dog and pony show your dealer is trying to pull.
Call Bob when he returns to town weds or thurs he’s a great guy and will get you taken care of.
I will be buying from Bob myself he in my opinion really knows his stuff when it comes to these cars..
Plus he cares that is worth its weight in gold..
Please let us know how it works out and good luck buddy no one should be treated that way,but its gonna happen all over the place same story just a different buyer as soon as these car start getting delivered to the dealers.
Greed is going to kill the impact of this car if they are not careful,and that would be a shame.
Thanks Bob Frederick, I appreciate your help. I talked to my dealer last week and he is upset with me. He keeps saying that he will give me my money back,and I keep telling him “NO WAY”. Dealerships in my area are asking $30,000.00 over MSRP. I have a signed letter that states “exactly” this, CUSTOMER WILL RECEIVE FIRST CHALLENGER THE DEALERSHIP RECEIVES. The letter is on the dealership letterhead,and signed buy the dealership manager. It is dated 2-20-2007 which was over a year ago. They say that they have two cars coming, but they can’t figure out what has happened. At one point they implied that the Owner of the dealership wanted one for him self. The Dealership Manager on two occassions had said that he would talk to the Rep. and call me back, but never did. Again last week he told me the same thing on Tuesday, and I am still waiting to hear. Bob, there must be somewhere or someone that can help me find out whats going on here. They have had my $5000.00 for over a year now, and I agreed to pay the full MSRP plus my $5000.00 which I feel was more than fair. Where do I turn, who do I talk to for help? There must be something that can be done. I tried to call you last week when I was traveling but was unable to reach you. I know you have a position to protect, I just wanted to chat with you about the issue. I am lost as to what I should do. I told the Sales Manager, that he signed an agreement that said I received the first Challenger they got and that I expected him to abide by thatagreement. He was HOT!!! It’s not going well……can you help??????
Read in the paper Sunday that the Dodge name may be phased out and all cars will sport the Chrysler name and logo. Goodbye to the Ram’s head!
Got my VIN today on my 2008. Moved to D status last Friday! YAY!
Just read an article from Road&Track that states, “Near the end of the 2009 model run, Dodge will offer the Challenger Classic R/T package featuring a blue paint scheme with wide black side striping, script-style badging and exclusive 20-in. 5-spoke alloy wheels.” I wonder what the blue will be. B5?
Most cars are sold above MSRP. What are you buying for 24k ? A Rabbit ? Still no word from the Penske dealership where I purchased mine.
On Apr 17, 2008 at 10:00PM, jrejre posted:
I seriously doubt you’ll be able to get a challenger for 20k.
Just pay 20k in cash and finance the other 4,000. It’ll be worth the $75 a month.
—————————————–
Are you saying that you think the SE w/ preferred op group would MSRP at $24k? Because that would mean I could get it for $22k, which is do-able. However, if you’re saying you think that $24k would be MY price then you’re saying you think it will be $26k MSRP. Can you clarify?
Soon !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope!
I just have to get one of these fire snorting machines where is the pricing?????
I seriously doubt you’ll be able to get a challenger for 20k.
Just pay 20k in cash and finance the other 4,000. It’ll be worth the $75 a month!!
capitalcarz: I understand your pain. I have an order that is first in line at my dealership (unless they are lying) and the status hasn’t moved from BG status ever. I just keep calling every week hoping for good news or some news at least.
My mistake. FC7 Plum Crazy, not FE7. I was thinking about my Duster which was FE5 Rally Red. I want to say my GTX was originally Ice Blue but someone painted it Vitamin C.
Please! I’m going nuts. Can someone tell me a closer figure for the price of a Challenger SE and what the preferred option package would run. I’m begging and getting desperate! I need a new car ASAP and want the Challenger (I’ve owned an FE7 70 Super Bee, 70 GTX and 72 Duster, and 2 turbo Daytonas).
Here’s my dilemma. I have the Chrysler employee discount, but I also have the Ford Z plan. Because of current $2500 incentives, I can get an 08 Mustang V6 Premium, pony package, safety/security, interior upgrade, ambient light, and Sirius for just under $20k. $20k’ish is pretty much all I have in cash, which is how I’m planning on buying. W/ the Chrysler employee price, would the Challenger w/ the preferred option package even be close to that? I can get the Stang (a car which is nice but doesn’t have stability control at all, and I’d still rather have the Challenger) right now if I wanted. Do I wait? What if I wait 2 months just to find out the Dodge is out of my range and all the good Stangs are picked over (the 09 Ford is already being produced next month and there’s no incentives on it)? Help.
Yes, I have had that happen to me before. I had an ‘08 B5 Super Bee in “D” Status with a VIN for about a week and then it went to “BG”. I inquired about it and found that they were over the number of units that they could build, so it was pulled.
In your case, if your car is the #1 car for that dealership, then you should still get the car because every dealership gets at least one Challenger. However, I have no idea why it went back to “BG” status. It is possible that it is being replaced with a new order# and VIN.
Bob
Bob Frederick, can you tell me if you have ever heard anything like this before. Two weeks ago I called and was given the actual VIN number assighed to my car and it was in “D” status. Today I called to see if they had a firm build date yet, and I was told that my car now shows in “BG” status which means not scheduled to be built. They said that usually there are comments put into the system telling why a status was changed, but in this case there are no notes at all. I called the dealership where I put a deposit down over a year ago(yes I said a year ago) and they said that they show the same thing on there screen. But they said that it was impossible, because they also had been given the VIN number assigned to the vehicle two weeks ago.And that in order to have a VIN number issued to them, the factory would have had to stamp a VIN tag. They “say” that there must be a mistake somewhere. Can you please give me your thoughts on this. Obviously I am pretty upset over the whole thing. I have a signed letter from the Dealership that states that I will receive the first challenger the Dealership gets, and I have a copy of Dodges letter to the dearlers which states that “ALL” dealers will get at least on Challenger, so if that’s the case trhen I should get one. Please share your thoughts. Capitalcarz
I spoke to the factory today. they say they are NOT working on challengers this week. delivery of the first batch will be first week of may. they also told me my car is one of the first batch of 250 cars being run.
Hi Jono my number is 911 can’t wait for May.
REGARDING VIN #’S…
I CHECKED ON EBAY AND THE VIN SEQUENCE NUMBERS FOR BRAND NEW 300′S CHARGERS AND MAGNUMS SEEM A WAYS OFF FROM THE CHALLENGER VIN’S.
BY THE WAY JONO MY NUMBER IS 114. MY ORDER WAS PLACED AT 9:07 AM. I STILL HAVEN’T HEARD OF A LOWER #
The VIN breakdown is as follows:
1st didgit= Country of origin
2nd didgit=Manufacture (Dodge)
3rd didgit=Manufacturing division
4th thru 8th didgit=Features,bodystyle,engine type,model,series,etc.
9th didgit=Indentifies vehicle VIN accuracy as a check reference
10th didgit=model year
11th didgit= Assembly plant
12th thru 17th didgit=Identifies the sequence of the vehicle for production as it rolls of the assembly line.
Now having said that, you still need to remember that there are three vehicles made at that plant, and VIN numbers are assigned by Dodge as orders are placed for “ALL” vehicles as they are sold. No matter what type of vehicle it is, so trying to figure out which car number is yours out of 6400 is almost impossible. Example: 10th Challenger is ordered then twenty five “other types” of vehicles are ordered then the 11th Challenger is ordered. Vin numbers would be 25 numbers apart but the cars would be the 10th and 11th Challengers sold. Hope that helps explain it for those that did not already know. Good luck all……
The last 4 of my VIN is 9281, so this definitely goes against the idea that the last 4 is which specifc number of the 6400 being made is yours. Compared to the post by capitalcars on 4 April, VIN 2B3LJ74W18H290906, the last 6 of my VIN is significantly lower. This is all speculation on my part though, as no one has stated what the clear means to read the VIN is.
I just know that the rep said my car is currently in manufacturing and a specific date for delivery will be known next Monday, 21 April.
I read on a forum a delaer stated they may have challengers arrive this week how could that be?
JONO, WHAY IS THE LAST 4 OF YOUR VIN?
I gave my VIN to a Dodge assistance rep today and they said my Challenger is in manufacturing as we speak. The rep told me to call back in 7-10 days to get the specific delivery date, as the car should be completely finished. Additionally, he said the latest delivery for my car should be the second week of May.
No way I had a buddy who had his ferrari melt down a year back.His mondail is no more.
The day is soon at hand youll have a build date if you laready dont.
This is very cool..
thanks “notsure”. i hope they do hurry, i have been cruising ebay for a 1970’s chally all weekend. i have been without a toy since october’s italian barbecue i had. (ferrari burnt to the ground). i really can’t wait any longer.
I was told by my source that the first 2500 have been moved to D-Status (firm schedule)and the first scheduled production date is now April 17th instead of the 15th. Not sure why all of the sudden they changed that, but that’s what my source said on Friday.
Hey just filled up one of my BMW’S $3.63 Per gallon. The time we get the Hemi it could be up to $4.00 Many of the buyers will not take delivery and someone could get a lower plate number or the dealer will get it . Watch and check if your one of those needing a low number.
Patience = Colors, options, price, and yes,even INFORMATION!!
Re:oops happy,darn computer.
FRONTYARDRESTOGUY
you must be very haooy its now just days till you see your baby.Big time congrats,its a boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cigars light up!
Many cars are or seem to be ging to D status any one here have that happen to them.
I was thinking the same thing why is the intake system different.
Any word on the air scoop. The one at Barrett Jackson had it coming right up to hood off the throttle body.All I see on pictures is that dam air box. I want the hood to set on the air filter to be fully operational and hope its not the every day air box. Any one know for sure ? Any body know about factory chrome headers ?
i have the same date. my car was ordered within 5 minutes of the system coming online. i haven’t heard of anyone with a lower # than mine yet.
Katman, I’ll see you in Arizona!!! would’nt that be wild to see 6400 Challengers in one location, with 90 percent of them in Hemi Orange. It would look like an orchard of oranges! (lol) Juice anyone???????
Dodge assistance just gave me a build date of 4/29/08. The order was placed at 10am on Dec 3rd, 2007. Anyone else have a date?
what do yall think our chances are for picking up a 2009 RT 6-speed without making a reservation?? just walkin in to the dealership once they hit the floors
Anything to add about the car? That is what this forum is for.
I thought not.
smirks lol hell I even had a typo. Oh and coming not comming
Notsure. Please learn to spell before you start writing commercials.
ie……changeing (changing) and smerks (smirkss)
Kinda funny but at least you try.
So bitter lil David Bush or jealous.
So sad.
I pity you.
God bless!
I think the spit bucket idea would work well in a Skoal commercial.
dodgechallenger.com and challengertalk.com have threads related to possible Challenger commercials. Some ideas are very creative. Could you advise the Dodge marketing boys to check them out?
On Apr 10, 2008 at 6:10AM, davidsbush posted:
Not sure, but around 1980, does government bail out of Chrysler sound familiar? Can you say K-car? Yes life went on, but with Uncle Sam’s help.
More doomsday crap,are you trying to sell me ?
Sell it somewhere else.
I have been checking with my dealer in Toronto about the same old question… price and delivery. I had a strange anwser about the price…. ‘general manager will get back to me on a price’! and no date for delivery. Since the Canadian pricing was announced a couple of weeks ago, I am wondering why there is NO fixed price apparently for them.
Got my vin No from dealer on april 7th 2008. My blood is starting boil.
Not sure, but around 1980, does government bail out of Chrysler sound familiar? Can you say K-car? Yes life went on, but with Uncle Sam’s help.
big time congrats KATMAN!!!
I had a great idea for a Challenger ad.
I was out in the garage today changeing the oil on my cars and had a great idea for an add spot.
Just a guy standing with his mouth open the camera draws closer to his face he drools a tiny bit,mouth still agape the timelapse shows the day pass by and the sun is going down and the camera circles around the man from behind to show nothing but a Challenger sitting on the lot .
Then from out of frame two salesman walk up and one says”He’s been here all day”The other just smerks and slides a bucket near the guys feet and then another drop of drool hits the bucket,and as the one salesman turns to motion the the other to leave the one salesman see’s the other salesman locked in the same pose.
The remaining guy slides a bucket under his feet we see him turn to walk away,
Next shot its morning and there all 3 still standing there in the same positon and now there is a crowd standing behind them drooling also.
Screen goes black and then states “Comming in July the all new Dodge Challenger”..In small print:
Drool bucket not an available option.
Then a trailing shot of a hemi just smoking its tires fade to black.
CAPITALCARZ, When we get them lets have a Hemi rally in Arizona . I will be glad to put this together. What a fine day of thunder this would be.
Thanks capitalcarz , Mine is in C stage rt now and may arrive sometime in June I was told . Thanks for the number . I am a old Dodge fan and cant’t wait to park this Orange Pearl machine between my 3 BMW’S.
Back the the Challenger anyone see any movement on the vin’s let us know..
McCain = Bush and we would be fools to go there again. Believe all will be given away when the economy hits bottom .Flash back 1980 interest rates hit 17% and no one gave cars away.
Life went on!
Mad Max for president!
Dream on.
Wow davidsbush- You must be a Newscaster! Thanks for the pep talk!
Took my 05 Jeep Grand Cherokee in for service today. All I heard was whining about how the price of gas was slowing down the service business. I looked around in the showroom, and 3 different sales people tried to help me. They are practically giving away some of the new Chryslers and Jeeps.
PATIENCE is the key here. The dealer lots are going to be full of these things, and when gas hits $4, there will be more people out of work and losing their homes. The dealer lots will be full of brand new
6-speeds in awsome colors, and they will be giving them away!!!!! There will also be many repos around, even SRT8’s that will have already taken the depreciation hit! All we need is McCain as president, and the prices won’t get any better than that!
Hi Bob, just wondering if you have heard anything “official” about a Chally convertible for 09 or 10. I have read the unofficial stuff, but would like know what the “official” word is from Dodge.If any.
thanks
heres the latest canadian info per allpar.
Dodge Challengers in Canada: SXT, SRT8 500, and more
Canadian buyers will be able to use their strong Loonies on two models featured only in the Great White North. Geo Nazos brought our attention to the Dodge Challenger SRT8 500 and SXT, which are not available in the United States. The SXT appears to be identical to the SE in just about every way, but presumably includes an option package. The SRT8 500 is only available for 2008, and includes a certificate of authenticity, carbon fibre hood striples, Kicker 13-speaker audio, 6-disc DVD radio, UConnect, alarm, and badging; it’s a limited edition available only in Canada.
Geo tells us there has been a debate over whether or not the 2008 Challenger SRT8 automatic will have limited slip differentials. Geo pointed out that the left menu bar at Dodge.ca lists a Sure Grip at a 3.06 ratio which “incorporates a Torque Response Unit and Two-Pinion Speed Sensing to help control slip between the rear wheels.” Automobile tested a prototype with a Getrag torque-sensing unit in development, and said it was much better than the 2008 limited-slip differential; we don’t know if that’ll be used in 2009 or afterwards.
Nice to read all the comments regarding the 2008 SRT8 Challengers you have ordered and are anxiously waiting for.
However as a Canadian I am very upset regarding the lack of information I was able to obtain regarding buying/ordering the new Challenger in Canada. Chrysler Canada, local dealer and Chrysler USA could not give me info on how and where to put my order in. I sure hope the same dosen’t happen for the 2009 Challengers.
Hi Katman, please refer to my earlier post on April 4th. If your car is now in “D” status they will provide you with the VIN number by contacting customer support at 1-800-992-1997 But remember, it must be in “D” status which means firm build schedule. Let me know what you find out, and good luck. Capitalcarz
Has anyone been told as a buyer like myself that your plate # or vin is known ? I haven’t heard anything and bought the car in Feb Pearl Orange.
WOW…Not only did I get my vin # My Dealer called me and said my challenger was in and I can pick it up today!! Holy Smokes I am getting my challenger today and since I am so good looking they are giving me a $5,000 dollar discount. WOW…WOW
Late April Fools. HA HA HA.
The Vin does not contain info on color and trim. It contains the Country of origin, Year, Model, Assembly Plant, Engine Size, Etc. It also has six numbers at the end that tell us what number car it is out of that particular plant.
If the Challenger was the only car being built at Brampton, it would be easy to tell what number Challenger we all have because the last 6 digits would likely be 100001 or 200001 on the first car. If your Vin was 100083 for instance, you would have the 83rd car.
In this case, the Charger, Magnum and 300 are built in that plant along with the Challenger so it’s nearly impossible(unless we had access to the plant’s records)to know what number car you will have until they put the plaque on the dash.
Even on the old Mopars like the original ‘70 Challenger, the Vin didn’t tell you color or trim or even transmission,they had a “Fender Tag” for that info.
I hope this helps,
Bob
Thanks Moparman. I thought somewhere in the VIN it would have a paint code color like the old days. Also do you (or Bob) know if all the challenger VIN’S will run in sequence or other types of vehicles mixed in as orders are placed for trucks, vans, etc. Thanks, again…….
Even better, try putting it in here:
http://www.decodethis.com/
It comes up with a picture and info about the new challenger, in addition to detailed info dfrom your vin.
Hey, capitolcarz, I ran your vin at :
http://www.analogx.com/CONTENTS/vinview.htm
and got this:
Description Position Raw Data Decoded Data
Region: 1 2 North America
Country: 1-2 2B Canada
Manufacturer: 2-3 B3 Dodge
Model Specific: 4-8 LJ74W Unknown
Check Digit: 9 1 Valid
Year: 10 8 2008
Assembly Plant: 11 H H
Serial Number: 12-17 290906 290906
I guess it’s too new to recognise the model as challenger!!
Hey Bob,It’s a great day!!! Today I was given the actual VIN number that has been assigned to our 08 Challenger. Not sure how to decode it but the number is 2B3LJ74W18H290906 Are the last four digits the build number or does anyone have any idea how it works. Bob, Please give me your thoughts. Thanks, Capital Classic Cars
Talking with my dealer and the others around here, It seems that only their first car they ordered has moved to D status. All others are still in C or BG. This makes sense, as I would make the assumption that Dodge will first build 1 car for every dealer as promised. Once those are built or accounted for, they will then work on allocating cars for those of us who were second in line. So if Dodge is taking the time to make sure they do it right, then God Bless and Patience be mine.
The “seedy car dealer” issue is a totally different subject that I’m sure has a forum all it’s own somewhere else, and certainly isn’t limited to the Dodge Challenger. Suffice it to say that it would be very refreshing to find a true car guy like Bob seems to be behind the sales desk at every dealership so that none of us would get screwed over when purchasing a vehicle. My two cents is that you can either sell a few vehicles to the desperate (rich) customers at an obscene profit, or you can sell a ton of vehicles at a reasonable price and have happy customers that spread the word around.
Of course, I know nothing of how the accounting works at a car dealership, so maybe I’m just being naive here……..I’m also quite sure that this post isn’t going to change the way things are done in the sales departments at car dealerships…….we can always dream, though……..
POSTED BY UCANDOIT:
“So what if they made a few bucks off your cash, IF and I mean IF they allow you to pick the first 2009 Challenger in any High Impact color of your choice with a Shaker Hood and Pistol Grip Shifter. And IF they were limited editions with the numbered dash plates then, maybe it is worth the wait and inconvenience”.
MAN THATS ALOT OF IF’S…….ALOT!
Very true it is the dealers,that is why I will buy from Bob Fredricks,thankyou for opening my eyes to this.
You guys rock what is another few month or years in the scope of thing just hope we live long enough to see this happen…
Bob have your phone manned on the day prices hit I have a feeling youll have a great ammount of calls and orders.
Dealers will always be greedy because some years are good and some years are lean. It is always a gamble giving dealers money up front because they could file Chapter 13 and you will never see your money. I have never paid sticker price for a car because in a few years people will be tired of it and you will get $5,000 bonus incentives to purchase it. It takes a few years to get the bugs out of a vehicle anyhow so just wait and then you will be able to get it in the color you want. We are in the middle of a recession and all the car makers had their worst sales month in 10 years (even Toyota’s sales were down 10%). Just be patient and you will get everything you want at a fair price. We have waited 35 years…what’s another couple.
At the time you could place an order Dodge had not announced production numbers. The dealers were trying to place serious orders. When the numbers were given, Dodge ceased taking additional orders. The dealer got to use our money not Dodge. It was a calculated risk that we were willing to take to get on the list. The unfortunates will get a refund on the ‘08 or a first in line for the ‘09, I’d opt for the ‘09.
So what if they made a few bucks off your cash, IF and I mean IF they allow you to pick the first 2009 Challenger in any High Impact color of your choice with a Shaker Hood and Pistol Grip Shifter. And IF they were limited editions with the numbered dash plates then, maybe it is worth the wait and inconvenience.
Wouldnt this fall under bait and switch.Isnt it illegal?
It in a sense was a free loan to dodge with no interest.
We are talking millions here.Im sure they will refund deposits but a 4 month interest free loan is just wrong.That is if they cancel the orders.
With regards to putting a deposit down at a dealership on one of the ‘08 SRT’s months ago, I wonder how many unscrupulous dealers out there would just take the money knowing full well the (slim) chances of them actually being able to get one allocated to them (that is to say, getting an actual ‘08 SRT in 2008)? No slam against you, Bob - I’m certain that you’re a reputable dealer and would never do that to a customer, but I’m just asking if there would be dealers out there that would do this. I know of some that I suspect would take someone’s $5k deposit to the bank, then try every trick in the book to keep it one way or the other.
Maybe this issue has already been brought up in a previous post?????
Wow
How could dodge do this so many people waited soooo long, Many plopped a 5000.00 deposit down on a car that will be canceled in produciton.WTF?
Man Id be pissed off to the limit.
I hope all works out for you guys please keep us informed.
With regard to Plum Crazy and Sublime, I’m really pressing hard with Dodge to get these and the rest of the original Hi-Impact colors available as soon as possible. However, we have no firm answers as to when and which ones will be available.
As that info gets to me, I will let all of you know. Sorry I don’t have better answers at this time- I want to know as badly as you do.
BG orders are likely to never get scheduled for ‘08. However, I’ve seen stranger things happen, so I wouldn’t cancel one.
As far as Dodge flipping ‘08 Sold Orders automatically to ’09’s, I doubt they will because many of them are Hemi Orange and as of now anyway, Hemi Orange is not available on the ‘09 SRT8. I will continue to try to find that out though because they might do it.
That’s it for now, sorry I can’t be more helpful. I will stay on it and get those answers though.
Bob
I believe that the BG status is an indication that you had better place your order for an 09 instead of an 08. But maybe Bob has better feel for that. Also, in case anyone wants an 08, we have on coming in Orange, with performance tires and the navigation system. I did not order the sunroof because I was not sure if it was body colored or glass, and I was not sure how it would look. Our unit should be a low production number, but if you really want one it should not matter what number it is because they are all sold and you can’t get one. I know several Dodge dealership owners that are keeping their allocation for them selves. I have all paper work including VON number assignment.Contact me at Capitalcarz@aol.com for info or You can see the car at Mecum Spring Classic Auction in Indianapolis, Indiana May 15,16,17,18 2008 If we recieve the car in time. If you send a question here on this site , I will answer for all to read. Good luck to all.
Hi Bob,
I have the same question about the BG status as of 2 days ago. I have an ‘08 on order too that is in BG status. Do you know if orders that are in BG are planned on being built but do not have all of the parts at the moment?
Thanks so much for your help!
Bob, Same question as Challenger TA. Also, I am still first in line at my dealership yet the build status is BG. They say it has to do with a component not being available. The dealership checked and said the RPO code says the tires are not available. Does this make any sense?
Bob, I ordered a 2008 Challenger on Dec. 4, 2007. My dealer has 4 ordered, but the last time I checked they only had one allocation. My question is if Dodge don’t build all the 2008 SRT Challengers that they have orders for will they cancel the orders not built, or build a 2009 to take its place? If Dodge builds them as 2009 models will they let us know so we can order the six speed?
When will the 6-speed manual be out and ready for ordering?
I have a couple of questions Bob:
Realistically, do we have any chance of being able to order a 2009 Challenger in a couple of months in Sublime or Plum Crazy? Or are we past the cut-off for this type of production change (on the first production models for the year)?
When we are able to order ’09s in a couple of months, will we know at that time all of the details on the Petty special edition with late availability?
I will give up my spot for an early 2009 if I cannot get Sublime, Plum Crazy, or possibly the Petty edition.
Dodge will sell tons of these cars for years to come aslong as they stay true to the original design. It’s ok to make minor changes when they improve performance or add options (LIKE COLORS AND MORE COLORS, shaker hood, side exhaust, T/A kit etc) but please don’t change the styling of the body. If you look at all the successful iconic cars like porche and ferrari (and now Challenger)they have remained true to the original… I am hopeful (praying) that Dodge has finally learned that leasson… Keep up the great work! Waiting for my ‘09
Greg Im right there with you.This is a big deal to us mopar guys to say the least.
28 more days to wait and counting,ugh!
The last time I was this excited was at the birth of my daughter!! Since the wife won’t read this post I’ll be honest, I’m MUCH more excited!!
Thanks for the info Bob. I find myself checking the Dodge website 2-3 times a day for new info on the Challenger! I graduated college in ‘03 and wanted to buy a V-8, RWD muscle car. However, the Camaro was Dead and who wants to be seen in a Mustang. Yuck! Now that the chally is coming out I am so excited.
I am really pumped as you are for the new Challenger. I currently have an ‘08 Sebring convertible, and before that an ‘06 300C convertible that was done in California. When the 2010 convertible comes out I will want to get it loaded. One thing that I have on my ‘08, and my wife has on her ‘07 Sebring sedan is the heated/cooled cup holder. It seems as though that is not an option on the Chally, but I don’t know why. It’s cool.
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