Final Negative Response (Meleia Hunt)

To: Nicole Tolman

From: Bill

Subject: Your 2005 Honda Civic

Nicole,

            Firstly, I want to extend my gratitude to you and your family and thank you for your loyalty to Honda and myself. You have always purchased from us in the past and we strive to keep you satisfied through our services. We, here at Honda, are delighted for your decision to obtain your first vehicle through us.

            Secondly, I appreciate you bringing these issues to my attention. You have clearly stated your disappointment, of not being able to reach your goals, with this vehicle. I admire your strategic planning of budget before purchasing your Civic and recognize your progression as a business student. My job, as a fellow business person and friend, is to eliminate any displeasure and provide a solution.

            Although, Honda cannot fulfill your request to pay you monthly for over budget costs, I can address your concerns about gas mileage. I didn’t purposely mislead you on the estimated gas mileage. The figures I reported are based on the standard tests the whole industry was using at the time for all cars; not just Hondas. In fact, the new mileage estimates, which you reported, go into effect on the 2008 models. I considered the website you provided (http://www.fueleconomy.gov/) and found a few easy tips on how to get better gas mileage. I list them for your convenience:

• Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. Fuel economy benefit: 5%–33%. Equivalent gasoline savings: $0.17–$1.15/gallon.
• Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. Fuel economy benefit: 7%–14%. Equivalent gasoline savings: $0.24–$0.49/gallon (Average savings, assuming drivers are willing to slow down 5 to 10 mph and fuel costs $3.47 per gallon).
• Remove excess weight from trunk. Fuel economy benefit: 1%–2%/100 lbs. Equivalent gasoline savings: $0.03–$0.07/gallon.
• Avoid excessive idling and AC usage. Fuel cost savings: $0.01–$0.03/min. (AC off), $0.02–$0.03/min. (AC on).
• Using cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, will save gas.
• Keep your engine properly tuned. Fuel economy benefit: 4%. Equivalent gasoline savings: $0.14/gallon.
• Keep tires properly inflated. Fuel economy benefit: up to 3%. Equivalent gasoline savings: up to $0.10/gallon.

Furthermore, Honda has agreed to extend the mileage warranty about 10 percent on all cars equipped with the faulty odometer. I have already updated your record to show the extended warranty period on your Civic. I hope that I have succeeded in assisting you work your way towards better gas mileage. Feel free to contact me with any more concerns that you may have in the future. I look forward to continuing our business and wish you a wonderful day.

Your friend, Bill