Reviews
Poor service depart and poor leadership.
Poor service depart and poor leadership. Very dishonest in all of their dealings. Local community boards recommend going to another dealer if you’re convinced that a Toyota is for you.
Poor service depart and poor leadership.
Poor service depart and poor leadership. Very dishonest in all of their dealings. Local community boards recommend going to another dealer if you’re convinced that a Toyota is for you.
- Customer service —
- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 1.0
- Does not recommend this dealer
- Came in for service or repair
Jason, We take pride in providing 5-star service to each and every guest who walks through our doors, which is why this is discouraging to read. Both your opinion and satisfaction are important to us, which is why we'd like the opportunity to speak further and learn more about where we've fallen short here. At your convenience, please contact me or our Service and Parts Director, Dan Fankhauser at 949-546-0213 or dfankhauser@smtoyota.com. We look forward to speaking with you. Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
Just had such a great time trading in my car and getting
Just had such a great time trading in my car and getting a new one at Toyota RSM. The whole process was super chill and way easier than I expected. Everyone there was really friendly and helpful—they didn’t pressure me at all and made sure I felt good about everything. They gave me a fair deal on my trade-in, and the whole thing was smooth from start to finish. The team answered all my questions and helped me find the perfect car. Even the finance part (which is usually kinda stressful) was super easy. Honestly, if you're thinking about getting a car or trading yours in, you should totally check out Toyota RSM. Best car-buying experience I’ve ever had. Big thanks to the team there!
Just had such a great time trading in my car and getting
Just had such a great time trading in my car and getting a new one at Toyota RSM. The whole process was super chill and way easier than I expected. Everyone there was really friendly and helpful—they didn’t pressure me at all and made sure I felt good about everything. They gave me a fair deal on my trade-in, and the whole thing was smooth from start to finish. The team answered all my questions and helped me find the perfect car. Even the finance part (which is usually kinda stressful) was super easy. Honestly, if you're thinking about getting a car or trading yours in, you should totally check out Toyota RSM. Best car-buying experience I’ve ever had. Big thanks to the team there!
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- Overall experience 5.0
- Does recommend this dealer
- Shopped for a new car
We are so happy that you had an amazing experience here with us! Your kind words motivate us to keep providing excellent service. Enjoy your new ride, and we look forward to seeing you again! Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
Hopping on here to commend Alan Modessa and thank him for
Hopping on here to commend Alan Modessa and thank him for his excellent customer service and overall manner. He was communicative, educative, and highly responsive to our needs. Thanks for being kind and patient with my older mother.
Hopping on here to commend Alan Modessa and thank him for
Hopping on here to commend Alan Modessa and thank him for his excellent customer service and overall manner. He was communicative, educative, and highly responsive to our needs. Thanks for being kind and patient with my older mother.
- Customer service —
- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 5.0
- Does recommend this dealer
- Came in for service or repair
Robert, We're thrilled to hear about Alan's exceptional service. Our team strives to provide the best experience for all our customers, and your feedback truly brightens our day. We look forward to serving you again! Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
Absolute scammers .
Absolute scammers . Had a deal in place . I started the online paperwork , I was told I had to wait to get the vehicle , because it was being serviced . I call back two days later to see if it's ready , and they tell me sorry we sold it l a xx night ! When I asked how they could do that when we had a deal they went silent . Avoid this dealer at all costs. They must have a dozen bot giving them good reviews on google.
Absolute scammers .
Absolute scammers . Had a deal in place . I started the online paperwork , I was told I had to wait to get the vehicle , because it was being serviced . I call back two days later to see if it's ready , and they tell me sorry we sold it l a xx night ! When I asked how they could do that when we had a deal they went silent . Avoid this dealer at all costs. They must have a dozen bot giving them good reviews on google.
- Customer service —
- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 1.0
- Does not recommend this dealer
- Shopped for a used car
Thank you for both the opportunity to earn your business and for taking the time to share your concerns. While it is illegal to hold a pre-owned vehicle in the State of California, we could have done a much better job of informing you when this vehicle was done being serviced. I'd like the opportunity to learn more about what transpired, so we can address this appropriately with our team and work to ensure something like this does not happen again. Please contact me at your convenience. I look forward to speaking with you. Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
The best dealership, I don’t care how far I have to drive
The best dealership, I don’t care how far I have to drive I’ll keep coming here, the customer service is the best for me. From the front desk to the mechanic people… great service.
The best dealership, I don’t care how far I have to drive
The best dealership, I don’t care how far I have to drive I’ll keep coming here, the customer service is the best for me. From the front desk to the mechanic people… great service.
- Customer service —
- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 5.0
- Does recommend this dealer
- Came in for service or repair
Hi Mabel, We are pleased to see that you had a memorable experience here with us! If we can help you out with anything else, please let us know. Thanks! Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
Shame on you!
Shame on you! Sharing my recent experience with Toyota has become a therapeutic necessity, as what started as a dreamy affair with my 2023 Toyota Crown has transformed into a nightmarish journey. I leased this car from Toyota in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. Picture this: the excitement of driving off the lot with my shiny new ride, only to be greeted by a rather unwelcome guest—a persistent and annoying clunking noise from the front axle and suspension system. Hoping for a quick fix, I rushed back to the dealership, where the technician acknowledged the issue but, to my disbelief, dismissed it as a "characteristic" of the car. Suddenly, my joyous drive was replaced with the sound of disappointment. Not one to be easily swayed, I sought a second opinion from another Toyota dealership. To my dismay, not only did they confirm the issue, but they also spun a web of lies in their report, claiming they tested a showroom model with the same problem. Having personally test-driven that very model without any issues, their dishonesty left me feeling betrayed and questioning the integrity of the brand. Hoping for a reprieve during the 5k maintenance, I handed over my beleaguered Crown, pleading for a thorough inspection. Alas, my hopes were dashed as I received yet another report insisting that the clunking noise was just a "characteristic" of the car. It felt as if my concerns were being swept under the rug, ignored by a company I once held in high regard. In my desperation, I reached out directly to Toyota, seeking assistance or even the possibility of a return. However, my plea was met with a cold denial, leaving me feeling stranded and unimportant. Where was the compassion, the understanding, and the commitment to customer satisfaction that I had expected? Talking to other Toyota Crown owners only deepened my despair, as they blissfully cruised along without a care in the world—no clunking noise to disrupt their journeys. It became clear that my case was being singled out for mishandling, leaving me with a sense of betrayal and abandonment by a company I trusted. To anyone considering a Toyota Crown, my advice is to proceed with caution. What should have been a beautiful driving experience has turned into a heartbreakingly frustrating ordeal. Toyota, you've not only lost a customer but also an advocate. It's time for some introspection and a recommitment to the values that once made your brand shine.
Shame on you!
Shame on you! Sharing my recent experience with Toyota has become a therapeutic necessity, as what started as a dreamy affair with my 2023 Toyota Crown has transformed into a nightmarish journey. I leased this car from Toyota in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. Picture this: the excitement of driving off the lot with my shiny new ride, only to be greeted by a rather unwelcome guest—a persistent and annoying clunking noise from the front axle and suspension system. Hoping for a quick fix, I rushed back to the dealership, where the technician acknowledged the issue but, to my disbelief, dismissed it as a "characteristic" of the car. Suddenly, my joyous drive was replaced with the sound of disappointment. Not one to be easily swayed, I sought a second opinion from another Toyota dealership. To my dismay, not only did they confirm the issue, but they also spun a web of lies in their report, claiming they tested a showroom model with the same problem. Having personally test-driven that very model without any issues, their dishonesty left me feeling betrayed and questioning the integrity of the brand. Hoping for a reprieve during the 5k maintenance, I handed over my beleaguered Crown, pleading for a thorough inspection. Alas, my hopes were dashed as I received yet another report insisting that the clunking noise was just a "characteristic" of the car. It felt as if my concerns were being swept under the rug, ignored by a company I once held in high regard. In my desperation, I reached out directly to Toyota, seeking assistance or even the possibility of a return. However, my plea was met with a cold denial, leaving me feeling stranded and unimportant. Where was the compassion, the understanding, and the commitment to customer satisfaction that I had expected? Talking to other Toyota Crown owners only deepened my despair, as they blissfully cruised along without a care in the world—no clunking noise to disrupt their journeys. It became clear that my case was being singled out for mishandling, leaving me with a sense of betrayal and abandonment by a company I trusted. To anyone considering a Toyota Crown, my advice is to proceed with caution. What should have been a beautiful driving experience has turned into a heartbreakingly frustrating ordeal. Toyota, you've not only lost a customer but also an advocate. It's time for some introspection and a recommitment to the values that once made your brand shine.
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- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 1.0
- Does not recommend this dealer
- Shopped for a new car
Kian, Your satisfaction remains our top priority, and while we understand your concern and a resolution has gone a different route outside of our hands here at SM Toyota, please know that as your local Toyota dealer, we are still ready to serve you and be your advocate in any way possible. Should you ever like to discuss anything, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am always here to help. Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
If I could give this dealership 0 stars I would.
If I could give this dealership 0 stars I would. I’ve only ever had bad experiences here, they are always so rude and shady to us. I’ve somehow always ended up with the same people, and every time I leave very uncomfortable. The first time, I came here to trade in my (upside down) car and was not helped in a very respectful way. Only looked down on and treated as lesser than. The second time was to try to sell my mom’s car back to the dealership and she just passed away. My bf and I went on a Thursday, spoke with Robin who told us to come back Saturday so he could put the car on a lift and have a mechanic look at it to give an accurate quote. We waited until then, came back, and was immediately sat down and told we owe money on a car that’s worth $12500 without him even taking time to have a mechanic look at it or put it on a lift! I am furious and so glad I’m moving out of state. Don’t go here
If I could give this dealership 0 stars I would.
If I could give this dealership 0 stars I would. I’ve only ever had bad experiences here, they are always so rude and shady to us. I’ve somehow always ended up with the same people, and every time I leave very uncomfortable. The first time, I came here to trade in my (upside down) car and was not helped in a very respectful way. Only looked down on and treated as lesser than. The second time was to try to sell my mom’s car back to the dealership and she just passed away. My bf and I went on a Thursday, spoke with Robin who told us to come back Saturday so he could put the car on a lift and have a mechanic look at it to give an accurate quote. We waited until then, came back, and was immediately sat down and told we owe money on a car that’s worth $12500 without him even taking time to have a mechanic look at it or put it on a lift! I am furious and so glad I’m moving out of state. Don’t go here
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- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 1.0
- Does not recommend this dealer
- Shopped for a new car
We are very sorry to hear about the passing of your mother and our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. We are very disappointed that you have left here feeling uncomfortable. We never want any of our guests to feel this way. Unfortunately, there was just too much damage to the vehicle that you brought in for appraisal. We asked you to bring it back in during the day so we could get a better look at the vehicle and there was simply too much body damage for us to take it in. While we do understand that you are moving out of state, your feedback is still very important to us. Should you like to discuss your most recent experience or any other experiences you've had here, please contact me directly. I am always here to assist. Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
First time ok, second time .
First time ok, second time ...find a new dealer. New Toyota Highlander - went back to have an OEM part installed after being called saying they had all the parts only to be told later in the day, they may not be able to finish it due to "not having all the parts." Delayed. Thought I would give a second chance for 10K service. Was greeted by a service attendant saying they are short staffed and it would be 10-15 minutes. During my wait, I saw service writers show up around 15 minutes after the dealer opened, grab their tablet and started writing. By this time they had plenty of cars in multiple lines. After waiting 20 minutes, the"late people" started taking cars that showed up after me. Time to find a new dealer
First time ok, second time .
First time ok, second time ...find a new dealer. New Toyota Highlander - went back to have an OEM part installed after being called saying they had all the parts only to be told later in the day, they may not be able to finish it due to "not having all the parts." Delayed. Thought I would give a second chance for 10K service. Was greeted by a service attendant saying they are short staffed and it would be 10-15 minutes. During my wait, I saw service writers show up around 15 minutes after the dealer opened, grab their tablet and started writing. By this time they had plenty of cars in multiple lines. After waiting 20 minutes, the"late people" started taking cars that showed up after me. Time to find a new dealer
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- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 1.0
- Does not recommend this dealer
- Came in for service or repair
Thank you for bringing this to our attention and for taking the time to speak with Ian here about these concerns. As he mentioned to you, this is not how we conduct business here at Santa Margarita Toyota. We appreciate the opportunity to make this right and we are looking forward to seeing you here later this morning. Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE - BEWARE!
WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE - BEWARE! My wife took her 2013 Prius to this dealership for an oil change - they were offering a Black Friday Special. When we went to pick up her car, the oil change was done, but the service technicians also decided to inflate her tires. This sounds normal, however, the tires had been inflated with nitrogen and have the GREEN valve caps to indicate that. I'm guessing they don't know that as they removed the valve caps, put air in the tires and didn't replace the valve caps. Not sure if this was a cause, but after receiving the car back the TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) was malfunctioning. After talking with the service manager, they agreed to replace the one sensor at a discounted rate of $125. Discount Tire charges $120, Costco will do it for $60. They didn't mention anything about replacing the nitrogen! I have tried to contact the head guy Ephraim Barcelo via telephone and e-mail. He has ignored my voicemail, and doesn't respond to my many e-mails. I did get a call from Rob Taylor - not sure who he is. I returned his call but he failed to get back to me. What annoys me most, is not the fact they won't fix what they broke, but the arrogance of this dealership, and them failing to return or acknowledge any of my voicemails or e-mails. I contacted Toyota Corporate which has opened a case to investigate this incident. After speaking to a very helpful person at Toyota, they were also appalled at the lack of communication coming from Santa Margarita Toyota. Toyota makes great cars. There are many dealerships around that will offer better service. Avoid this one!!
WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE - BEWARE!
WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE - BEWARE! My wife took her 2013 Prius to this dealership for an oil change - they were offering a Black Friday Special. When we went to pick up her car, the oil change was done, but the service technicians also decided to inflate her tires. This sounds normal, however, the tires had been inflated with nitrogen and have the GREEN valve caps to indicate that. I'm guessing they don't know that as they removed the valve caps, put air in the tires and didn't replace the valve caps. Not sure if this was a cause, but after receiving the car back the TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) was malfunctioning. After talking with the service manager, they agreed to replace the one sensor at a discounted rate of $125. Discount Tire charges $120, Costco will do it for $60. They didn't mention anything about replacing the nitrogen! I have tried to contact the head guy Ephraim Barcelo via telephone and e-mail. He has ignored my voicemail, and doesn't respond to my many e-mails. I did get a call from Rob Taylor - not sure who he is. I returned his call but he failed to get back to me. What annoys me most, is not the fact they won't fix what they broke, but the arrogance of this dealership, and them failing to return or acknowledge any of my voicemails or e-mails. I contacted Toyota Corporate which has opened a case to investigate this incident. After speaking to a very helpful person at Toyota, they were also appalled at the lack of communication coming from Santa Margarita Toyota. Toyota makes great cars. There are many dealerships around that will offer better service. Avoid this one!!
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- Buying process —
- Quality of repair —
- Overall facilities —
- Overall experience 1.0
- Does not recommend this dealer
- Came in for service or repair
Here at Santa Margarita Toyota safety is our top priority. Because of that, we take pride in making sure tires are inflated to the correct level at each service visit, which we did for your vehicle. As an established Service Center, it's our belief that nitrogen is not beneficial to the tires of a vehicle and not anything we'd recommend to our valued customers. We have attempted to reach you and have left multiple messages to discuss this further, but have not heard back. When you do have a moment, please contact Ian here at 949-766-2026 or imckinley@smtoyota.com, as he'd like to speak with you further and clarify why we put air in your tires to ensure your vehicle left here safely. We look forward to hearing from you. Regards, Ephraim Barcelo Owner & General Manager ebarcelo@smtoyota.com
Mr Barcelo, I have left you numerous emails and voicemails. I have also called your dealership many times but always get a voicemail. I have left numerous voicemails for your people but have yet to hear back. My cell number is at the bottom of my emails I've sent you. Feel free to reach out.
My purchase was all good!!
Bought 2023 hybrid Camry off the showroom floor. The salesperson Wade was a great salesperson to work with as well as the Sales Manager Robin. I have gotten thank you's and follow-ups more than i'd ever expect. I'll assume Service will be just as good as Sales.
My purchase was all good!!
Bought 2023 hybrid Camry off the showroom floor. The salesperson Wade was a great salesperson to work with as well as the Sales Manager Robin. I have gotten thank you's and follow-ups more than i'd ever expect. I'll assume Service will be just as good as Sales.
- Customer service 5.0
- Buying process 5.0
- Quality of repair 5.0
- Overall facilities 5.0
- Overall experience 5.0
- Does recommend this dealer
- Shopped for a new car
- Did make a purchase
Congratulations on your new 2023 Camry! We're thrilled to hear Wade & Robin have ensured your experience was nothing short of 5-stars! We look forward to working with you again soon. Welcome to the family! Regards, Ephraim Barcelo - Owner & General Manager - ebarcelo@smtoyota.com