Surprising Closure of Patriot Ford Leaves Customers and Employees with Hard Questions

Today, employees and customers of Patriot Ford in Whiteville, NC received the shock news that the dealership would be closing immediately – without explanation. The dealership is shuttered already, cars still left in the service shop, and former workers left without a two-week notice. Not only did unexpected closure of the business leave customers without the cars they had brought in to have serviced, but further questions are still left unanswered.

Exploring the Unexpected Closure of Patriot Ford

Patriot Ford’s closure was sudden and unexpected. One employee reported receiving a pink-slip and their last paycheck without an explanation of the dealership’s closure. With cars still in the service shop, it’s clear that customers were not given the chance to retrieve their property before the business closed.

Former Parts Manager Gary Padgett offered some clarity to the situation, telling local news that “They didn’t give us no two weeks notice or anything.” with customers feeling similarly shocked by the news.

Eric Floyd, who brought his Ford truck to the dealership late last year for repair, was most frustrated that he was told it would take weeks to diagnose the problem in order for him to receive his rental car. Floyd shared that it was “like my fifth Ford, and I’ve never had a bad experience until I went to Patriot.”

What to Do if Your Vehicle is Springs from the Closure of Patriot Ford

North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein offered reassurance that customers and employees affected by the closure still have their rights – even with an unexpected closure. According to Stein, customers are entitled to get their car back, and it’s the responsibility of owner Christina Van Ness to fulfill this.

For customers whose car was under warranty through the Patriot Ford dealership, there is still the option of having service done elsewhere – and if the dealership fails to comply with its obligations, you can take them to court.

Though many questions remain about the closure of Patriot Ford – and the future of the dealership’s South Madison Street location – customers and former employees are still entitled to know their rights and pursue justice.