My experience with Cunningham Motorsports
#1
Heel & Toe
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Location: Irvine CA
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My experience with Cunningham Motorsports
Hi guys. It's been very long I posted anything here but wanted to hear you guys' opinions on what I experienced with Cunningham Motorsports lately. Don't know if everyone had a good experience with them but mine was quite bad so am quite curious to know if anyone else had any similar experience I had.
I own a 2013 Viper GTS and it's good but I always wanted some extra power from it so wanted to get it tuned lightly. Wanted to get the Headers, full exhaust and ECU tune. I asked people around me and a buddy of mine recommended me to contact Cunningham Motorsports (aka CMS). I met Ryne Cunningham a couple of times at Shiftsector event so although he wasn't my personal friend wanted to give it a try.
I contacted him through Facebook's messages and he connected me to Troy Gleason (his employee). So exchanged various messages. I explained what I am after and what kind of power gain I want. After a few days of exchanging messages he stopped communicating. Didn't know what went on but after about a week he replied to my messages and said he got banned from Facebook so he couldn't send any messages to me. Oh well... That can happen. But even after that I didn't get the quote I wanted. Exactly 13 days after my initial contact day I got a quote. When I saw it I was quite surprised at the quotation because it was quite expensive compared to what I heard from other people who got similar tune set-up. It was because they quoted me a full retail price.
So I kindly asked if they could give a little discount. I got no replies. I contacted them again to get any replies back. Then I was asked "Give me a good reason why you could receive a discount from us". I was quite surprised to hear that question because I felt a little condescended by the question. Normally if discount was asked people would either say Yes or No. If yes, then how much discount... Even when I felt bad I answered him kindly. "The reason I should get a discount is for so and so reasons". Then he gave me no replies. Simple ignorance. So I contacted Ryne and asked him what's the hold up? Whether discount or no discount I wanted an answer so that I can either proceed with him or give consideration.
At that Ryne simply told me that there is no discount and he won't tune my car. I couldn't understand his reaction so I asked him why. He said because I was asking for the discount he does not feel good about me so he would rather decline the job at all. He said he will decline the job even if I paid full asking price! I was quite shocked but he was quite serious about it so I ended my communication at that.
I run my business as well so I tried to understand as much as possible but could think of two things.
(1) He does not want to deal with simple tuning that he won't make enough profit and
(2) He thinks I would be creating even more problems if he continued on with the business with me.
Either way, I felt the way I got treated was way under my expectations that I had about him because I heard about good things about him and his shop. I really wanted to get my tune done but now I am afraid that this is the kind of attitudes tuners might have on customers.
I can just imagine the worst. If I got treated like this being a potential customer (fish not yet caught) then how would I get treated after being a customer (fish already caught)? If someone has a problem after the tuning is done would he really go after those problems and resolve in a timely manner, nicely and in a proper way?
I'm not posting this to fight anyone and I could be wrong, too, but just wanted to share some thoughts about the incident I had with him. Plus, if anyone knows where I can get it tuned any recommendations will be welcome, too. By the way, I am in Orange County area (California).
If any questions or suggestions, then please PM me or email me at jayturbo71@hotmail.com
Thank you!
I own a 2013 Viper GTS and it's good but I always wanted some extra power from it so wanted to get it tuned lightly. Wanted to get the Headers, full exhaust and ECU tune. I asked people around me and a buddy of mine recommended me to contact Cunningham Motorsports (aka CMS). I met Ryne Cunningham a couple of times at Shiftsector event so although he wasn't my personal friend wanted to give it a try.
I contacted him through Facebook's messages and he connected me to Troy Gleason (his employee). So exchanged various messages. I explained what I am after and what kind of power gain I want. After a few days of exchanging messages he stopped communicating. Didn't know what went on but after about a week he replied to my messages and said he got banned from Facebook so he couldn't send any messages to me. Oh well... That can happen. But even after that I didn't get the quote I wanted. Exactly 13 days after my initial contact day I got a quote. When I saw it I was quite surprised at the quotation because it was quite expensive compared to what I heard from other people who got similar tune set-up. It was because they quoted me a full retail price.
So I kindly asked if they could give a little discount. I got no replies. I contacted them again to get any replies back. Then I was asked "Give me a good reason why you could receive a discount from us". I was quite surprised to hear that question because I felt a little condescended by the question. Normally if discount was asked people would either say Yes or No. If yes, then how much discount... Even when I felt bad I answered him kindly. "The reason I should get a discount is for so and so reasons". Then he gave me no replies. Simple ignorance. So I contacted Ryne and asked him what's the hold up? Whether discount or no discount I wanted an answer so that I can either proceed with him or give consideration.
At that Ryne simply told me that there is no discount and he won't tune my car. I couldn't understand his reaction so I asked him why. He said because I was asking for the discount he does not feel good about me so he would rather decline the job at all. He said he will decline the job even if I paid full asking price! I was quite shocked but he was quite serious about it so I ended my communication at that.
I run my business as well so I tried to understand as much as possible but could think of two things.
(1) He does not want to deal with simple tuning that he won't make enough profit and
(2) He thinks I would be creating even more problems if he continued on with the business with me.
Either way, I felt the way I got treated was way under my expectations that I had about him because I heard about good things about him and his shop. I really wanted to get my tune done but now I am afraid that this is the kind of attitudes tuners might have on customers.
I can just imagine the worst. If I got treated like this being a potential customer (fish not yet caught) then how would I get treated after being a customer (fish already caught)? If someone has a problem after the tuning is done would he really go after those problems and resolve in a timely manner, nicely and in a proper way?
I'm not posting this to fight anyone and I could be wrong, too, but just wanted to share some thoughts about the incident I had with him. Plus, if anyone knows where I can get it tuned any recommendations will be welcome, too. By the way, I am in Orange County area (California).
If any questions or suggestions, then please PM me or email me at jayturbo71@hotmail.com
Thank you!
#2
Instructor
After being on the forum for a bit leading up to my purchase I decided so much good info about Cunningham motorsports I called and asked them if I could bring Corvettes in to be inspected by them and how much.
The price I received was expensive but I figured that is the price for premium work but the lead time I was given was five weeks.
I assumed either they were as busy as they claimed or they just didn't really want to do the work. I work in the service industry and certain jobs are just not worth it without a large mark up.
It was one phone call and so I just wasn't sure if there was more to it. So many great reviews on here I wasn't going to post one small phone interaction but since yours is fairly recent to mine I will chime in. Ie perhaps there is a change happening at the company.
On a similar note; when I rode motorcycles I met a guy who did engine work for Suzuki factory teams and he would work on my bike but I paid more. He would always work on it then and there but I think he enjoyed hanging out with me. Many people felt he charged to much and just left right after hearing his quote. So maybe top dollars people just get used to being top dollar and no discount
I am also in Irvine... Is your Viper the the red, white, and blue one? There are multiple of my MR C6 in Irvine so hard to say if you see mine.
I know this message may not have helped you but maybe it will help CMS understand their consumers.
The price I received was expensive but I figured that is the price for premium work but the lead time I was given was five weeks.
I assumed either they were as busy as they claimed or they just didn't really want to do the work. I work in the service industry and certain jobs are just not worth it without a large mark up.
It was one phone call and so I just wasn't sure if there was more to it. So many great reviews on here I wasn't going to post one small phone interaction but since yours is fairly recent to mine I will chime in. Ie perhaps there is a change happening at the company.
On a similar note; when I rode motorcycles I met a guy who did engine work for Suzuki factory teams and he would work on my bike but I paid more. He would always work on it then and there but I think he enjoyed hanging out with me. Many people felt he charged to much and just left right after hearing his quote. So maybe top dollars people just get used to being top dollar and no discount
I am also in Irvine... Is your Viper the the red, white, and blue one? There are multiple of my MR C6 in Irvine so hard to say if you see mine.
I know this message may not have helped you but maybe it will help CMS understand their consumers.
#3
Heel & Toe
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It seems like you had a similar experience. Tuning someone's car isn't simply making money but a relationship you ought to build over time and that can bring countless referrals and prosperous business. At least that's what I think... Anyway, I also live in Irvine. My Viper is dark gray with partial black matte wrap (partially on the hood, doors and rear fender). It looks black in general. With black wheels. Honk when you see it~~ But I have many other cars so I dont drive this Viper for more than once a week so chances could be rare. But hey we shall meet one day since there aren't that many places people go...
#4
Melting Slicks
Its very simple.
Businesses that are successful can be selective about the work they take on and that includes whether or not they wish to discount their work.
Understanding that we are only getting one side of the story we can only assume that something in how you presented your discount request or expressed your lack of satisfaction with the timeliness of their correspondence put off vendor in some way.
Businesses that are successful can be selective about the work they take on and that includes whether or not they wish to discount their work.
Understanding that we are only getting one side of the story we can only assume that something in how you presented your discount request or expressed your lack of satisfaction with the timeliness of their correspondence put off vendor in some way.
#5
Heel & Toe
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Location: Irvine CA
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Its very simple.
Businesses that are successful can be selective about the work they take on and that includes whether or not they wish to discount their work.
Understanding that we are only getting one side of the story we can only assume that something in how you presented your discount request or expressed your lack of satisfaction with the timeliness of their correspondence put off vendor in some way.
Businesses that are successful can be selective about the work they take on and that includes whether or not they wish to discount their work.
Understanding that we are only getting one side of the story we can only assume that something in how you presented your discount request or expressed your lack of satisfaction with the timeliness of their correspondence put off vendor in some way.
--> Yes. I do the same thing. But at the same time try my best to not upset the customer at the same time or at least not make him/her feel condescended.
--> Possible. But I think he is overly sensitive. I am 45 this November and lived all my life pretty peacefully. Run multiple businesses and deal with people all the time so I really don't think I acted weird or anything like that. Maybe he and I had a bad chemistry? Maybe he had a bad day that day? I don't know. It was just a weird experience for me.
#6
Team Owner
Member Since: Oct 2004
Location: altered state
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St. Jude Donor '05
After a few days of exchanging messages he stopped communicating.
What was the reason you wanted a discount?
Are you doing something special in return?
Is there an incentive to "catch a fish" that is being either trying to find if they are overpaying "or just being cheap"...a biz owners worst nightmare.
Owner may think what referrals could come his way, similar? See my point?
Dont be offended I dont know either one of you just an outsiders view. Yrs ago Id turn away anyone who asked for one before work was started brings too many issues. .
Last edited by cv67; 06-05-2016 at 04:22 PM.
#7
Instructor
Well I didn't ask for a discoun; referring to the comment both of ust. I thought it was a bit high but when I agreed he then said five weeks. That's when I realized it was most likely selective work and as I wanted a new car quickly I couldn't wait.
I now need other work but I won't call them because I didn't get a warm fuzzy even when I was given news I didn't want to hear.
If you do things right in the service industry customers accept bad news and still are happy with your work or response to that news. Ie there is a way to tell customers things that keeps them coming back.
Unfortunately the best technical people tend to be robots who do not know courtesies. As a robot who is reminded of this at work I learn the most about it when I receive the same back.
I now need other work but I won't call them because I didn't get a warm fuzzy even when I was given news I didn't want to hear.
If you do things right in the service industry customers accept bad news and still are happy with your work or response to that news. Ie there is a way to tell customers things that keeps them coming back.
Unfortunately the best technical people tend to be robots who do not know courtesies. As a robot who is reminded of this at work I learn the most about it when I receive the same back.
#8
Owner of the company got sick of his people spending time talking to a tire kicker who kept hemming and hawing about maybe buying the cheapest package they offer and then really got fed up when that tire kicker asked for a discount. So, he went full retail and told his team to stop using their time talking to the tire kicker and use their time actually making money.
Sometimes you have to fire your customers
Sometimes you have to fire your customers
Last edited by lionsfan5454; 06-07-2016 at 02:21 AM.
#9
Team Owner
To be honest, sounds like they did you a favor, anytime a transaction or interaction starts to go sideways or you don't feel 100% about it, the best move is to drop it and walk away.
Last edited by Chevy Guy; 06-08-2016 at 04:32 PM.
#10
Team Owner
In 2008 they did some engine work on my C5 Z06 and my experience was great. Ryne always responded to my questions promptly, CJ - one of his mechanics at the time - was awesome. Everyone there made me feel welcome when I came by the shop and allowed me to hang out while they worked and talked me through what they were doing. If he said he would rather cut off communication than do business with him then I'm guessing he had his reasons. Sometimes it's just best to cut ties and move on.
#11
Instructor
Hi guys. It's been very long I posted anything here but wanted to hear you guys' opinions on what I experienced with Cunningham Motorsports lately. Don't know if everyone had a good experience with them but mine was quite bad so am quite curious to know if anyone else had any similar experience I had.
I own a 2013 Viper GTS and it's good but I always wanted some extra power from it so wanted to get it tuned lightly. Wanted to get the Headers, full exhaust and ECU tune. I asked people around me and a buddy of mine recommended me to contact Cunningham Motorsports (aka CMS). I met Ryne Cunningham a couple of times at Shiftsector event so although he wasn't my personal friend wanted to give it a try.
I contacted him through Facebook's messages and he connected me to Troy Gleason (his employee). So exchanged various messages. I explained what I am after and what kind of power gain I want. After a few days of exchanging messages he stopped communicating. Didn't know what went on but after about a week he replied to my messages and said he got banned from Facebook so he couldn't send any messages to me. Oh well... That can happen. But even after that I didn't get the quote I wanted. Exactly 13 days after my initial contact day I got a quote. When I saw it I was quite surprised at the quotation because it was quite expensive compared to what I heard from other people who got similar tune set-up. It was because they quoted me a full retail price.
So I kindly asked if they could give a little discount. I got no replies. I contacted them again to get any replies back. Then I was asked "Give me a good reason why you could receive a discount from us". I was quite surprised to hear that question because I felt a little condescended by the question. Normally if discount was asked people would either say Yes or No. If yes, then how much discount... Even when I felt bad I answered him kindly. "The reason I should get a discount is for so and so reasons". Then he gave me no replies. Simple ignorance. So I contacted Ryne and asked him what's the hold up? Whether discount or no discount I wanted an answer so that I can either proceed with him or give consideration.
At that Ryne simply told me that there is no discount and he won't tune my car. I couldn't understand his reaction so I asked him why. He said because I was asking for the discount he does not feel good about me so he would rather decline the job at all. He said he will decline the job even if I paid full asking price! I was quite shocked but he was quite serious about it so I ended my communication at that.
I run my business as well so I tried to understand as much as possible but could think of two things.
(1) He does not want to deal with simple tuning that he won't make enough profit and
(2) He thinks I would be creating even more problems if he continued on with the business with me.
Either way, I felt the way I got treated was way under my expectations that I had about him because I heard about good things about him and his shop. I really wanted to get my tune done but now I am afraid that this is the kind of attitudes tuners might have on customers.
I can just imagine the worst. If I got treated like this being a potential customer (fish not yet caught) then how would I get treated after being a customer (fish already caught)? If someone has a problem after the tuning is done would he really go after those problems and resolve in a timely manner, nicely and in a proper way?
I'm not posting this to fight anyone and I could be wrong, too, but just wanted to share some thoughts about the incident I had with him. Plus, if anyone knows where I can get it tuned any recommendations will be welcome, too. By the way, I am in Orange County area (California).
If any questions or suggestions, then please PM me or email me at jayturbo71@hotmail.com
Thank you!
I own a 2013 Viper GTS and it's good but I always wanted some extra power from it so wanted to get it tuned lightly. Wanted to get the Headers, full exhaust and ECU tune. I asked people around me and a buddy of mine recommended me to contact Cunningham Motorsports (aka CMS). I met Ryne Cunningham a couple of times at Shiftsector event so although he wasn't my personal friend wanted to give it a try.
I contacted him through Facebook's messages and he connected me to Troy Gleason (his employee). So exchanged various messages. I explained what I am after and what kind of power gain I want. After a few days of exchanging messages he stopped communicating. Didn't know what went on but after about a week he replied to my messages and said he got banned from Facebook so he couldn't send any messages to me. Oh well... That can happen. But even after that I didn't get the quote I wanted. Exactly 13 days after my initial contact day I got a quote. When I saw it I was quite surprised at the quotation because it was quite expensive compared to what I heard from other people who got similar tune set-up. It was because they quoted me a full retail price.
So I kindly asked if they could give a little discount. I got no replies. I contacted them again to get any replies back. Then I was asked "Give me a good reason why you could receive a discount from us". I was quite surprised to hear that question because I felt a little condescended by the question. Normally if discount was asked people would either say Yes or No. If yes, then how much discount... Even when I felt bad I answered him kindly. "The reason I should get a discount is for so and so reasons". Then he gave me no replies. Simple ignorance. So I contacted Ryne and asked him what's the hold up? Whether discount or no discount I wanted an answer so that I can either proceed with him or give consideration.
At that Ryne simply told me that there is no discount and he won't tune my car. I couldn't understand his reaction so I asked him why. He said because I was asking for the discount he does not feel good about me so he would rather decline the job at all. He said he will decline the job even if I paid full asking price! I was quite shocked but he was quite serious about it so I ended my communication at that.
I run my business as well so I tried to understand as much as possible but could think of two things.
(1) He does not want to deal with simple tuning that he won't make enough profit and
(2) He thinks I would be creating even more problems if he continued on with the business with me.
Either way, I felt the way I got treated was way under my expectations that I had about him because I heard about good things about him and his shop. I really wanted to get my tune done but now I am afraid that this is the kind of attitudes tuners might have on customers.
I can just imagine the worst. If I got treated like this being a potential customer (fish not yet caught) then how would I get treated after being a customer (fish already caught)? If someone has a problem after the tuning is done would he really go after those problems and resolve in a timely manner, nicely and in a proper way?
I'm not posting this to fight anyone and I could be wrong, too, but just wanted to share some thoughts about the incident I had with him. Plus, if anyone knows where I can get it tuned any recommendations will be welcome, too. By the way, I am in Orange County area (California).
If any questions or suggestions, then please PM me or email me at jayturbo71@hotmail.com
Thank you!
If you want quality you have to pay for it. Questioning a person's pricing isn't going to make any friends.