Anyone else being told by MB that discount won't be honoured

[keepoffthemarbles]

I'm an existing Mercedes owner and have a C300E Estate on order, deposit paid, with a decent discounted price. The dealership is being forced to change from Franchise to Agent and I've been told if my car isn't allocated before the end of the year then I will have to pay full retail.

The terms and conditions attached to my order clearly cover the standard model price rise, but they do not seem to cover the change in business model.

MB UK have been no help and simply made it the dealers problem. The dealer clearly seems to be running scared and are advising me my best option is to scrap the order and take my deposit back, which seems odd as they are in the business of selling cars and are adamant I'll be paying full retail.

I have a complaint logged with the motor industry ombudsman, but so far I've only had casual legal advice from a company lawyer. Her opinion was that the T&Cs didn't cover the change of business model and was of the view the discounted price on my order was contractually binding.

Anyone else in this position and have you had any advice?

[breadvan]

I’d be surprised if the contract stipulates a legal obligation for the dealer to supply a given car at a given price, I’m afraid.

My dealer’s also mentioned big changes in the New Year and no discounts.

[keepoffthemarbles]

Thanks Breadvan

The order confirmation shows the discount as a 'dealer contribution' as opposed to a discounted price. I'll see where this one goes.

[wax lyrical]

Interestingly enough, I was told by a friend today who works at Mercedes Benz head-office in Milton Keynes, that from the 1st of Jan, all franchises will become 'Agents' and will be forced to charge full retail for ALL cars, with no flexibility in offering discounts, etc.