Classic Steering Supply, out of Lake Elsinore, California, made BCA's Scam Watch list because we're receiving complaints alleging they are not fulfilling orders
and aren’t refunding consumers. Consumers order steering gear products after meeting the owners at car swap meets and car shows. Some indicate they pay by cash at the event, while others shop online or place orders over the phone. They are given expected delivery
times of one to two weeks. When the promised delivery date passes without receipt of the product, the company either promises to provide tracking information, claims the order is shipped, or eventually stops communicating with the customer altogether. Unfortunately,
the company’s unresponsiveness makes it difficult for shoppers to get a refund.
Consumers mention meeting with owners Andrew Gonzalez and Andres Gonzalez, Jr., at swap meet events. Sadly, a look at the complaints and a quick Internet search for Classic Steering Supply or the company’s prior names, Advance Steering Supply and Power Craft
Steering and Brakes, shows these owners have a history of taking money for products, but not delivering. Classic Steering Supply has an F rating with Business Consumer Alliance (“BCA”) and their complaints can be viewed here.
BCA recommends that everyone check out a business or offer before making a buying decision. Consumers are encouraged to:
- Obtain a reliability report from BCA for information on a business, their complaint history, and other useful information.
- Search the Internet for information on the company and its principals.
- Not act in haste. If you are at a location such as a swap meet or trade show and are approached by a seller, check them out first. Ask for as much information as you can about the business, offer, products, warranties, guarantees, policies, as well as terms
and conditions of the sale and research the information.
- Consider making a purchase by credit card instead of paying with cash. If there is a problem, such as non-delivery issues, you may be able to dispute the charges and obtain a refund. Services such as Paypal,
also have methods to open a dispute.
- Be mindful of shipping times. The Federal Trade Commission's Mail or Telephone Order Rule requires a merchant to deliver merchandise within the timeframe
advertised. If the company doesn't specify a shipping time, it must send the merchandise within 30 days. If the business is unable to deliver within 30 days, they must contact you immediately and give you the option of a new shipping date or to cancel for
a full refund, or be subject to penalties.
- Keep a record of your order, including the name and address of the company, the order date, and method of payment.
- Check your order promptly upon receipt to make sure the item is what you ordered and that it is intact and satisfactory. Notify the company at once if it is not. Be sure to keep the packaging in case you have to return the item.
If you experience a problem with a vendor or business and are unable to resolve it directly, contact BCA to
file a complaint or leave a review about your experience.
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About the Author:
Nicole Pitts is a Senior Business Analyst and Editor for Business Consumer Alliance. She has been with the organization for 12 years and specializes in report writing, business evaluation, and investigations. Nicole corresponds with businesses regarding
complaint trends and provides suggestions to help them alleviate problem areas that may cause concern. She also conducts advertisement reviews, reports on government enforcement actions, and assists government agencies and the media in obtaining information.
She enjoys reading, movies, and spending time with her family. Nicole may be reached by email at npitts@businessconsumeralliance.org.