Whilst this doesn't answer the core issues mentioned, I have long advocated an approach to new customer service which I personally did not experience, as a first time customer, at the dealer level. Namely, if the potential customer is new to Morgan, the salesperson is very clear about what a 'new owner' should expect. Please do not think that I am excusing poor quality; however, I believe that an honest discussion about what to expect from a handmade product, that it may require some fettling at the first service (and that is part of the reason there is such an early service), would help to set the expectations at a realistic level for people weaned on mainstream modern cars.
I know that in my case, this would have really helped with my first, and painful, Morgan ownership experience. Whilst the car had issues, the dealer exacerbated the problem greatly with poor PDI, less than ideal customer service and gaps in product knowledge. The entire experience was simply unacceptable; however, (and here is the rub) the moment I sold the car, I began to miss it... in spite of it being a massive thorn in my side for 9-months! I pondered this for a long while before realising that so many of the issues and the associated stress could have been alleviated, or avoided all together, had the dealer taken a more educational approach at the beginning.
My guess is they were worried they may have lost a sale had they been honest about what early ownership may entail; however, my view is this is short sighted and, in fact, they would have actually engender trust and a stronger rapport, whilst helping to set expectations at a level which helps to limit the impact of teething issues.
Just my 2-cents and in no way is it trying to dismiss the concerns Blake has, nor minimise how frustrating they are. My view is more an opinion on what I believe the sales side of the business can be doing whilst the factory continues to strive for improved quality (as I know they are committed to doing).
Agreed Simon, to some extent the dealer network would do better to follow your advice for new cars, but the factory surly must take some responsibility for initial quality and follow up support in a the same spirit. There are, IMHO, too many rebuttal examples, recorded on this genuinely nice and undoubtedly pro Morgan site, under the "they all do that sir" of "just give it a bit more time, it might bed in" banners for comfort.... really.
I guess the plea is... "Morgan please listen, we're only trying to help, and it will pay dividends in the end"
