[motorknut]

So i've heard so much about Alpha N's quality and fitment. Ordered their grille, and found a small section has tiny bubbles in the clear coat.

Disappointed that at the price point, this is the kind of finish they provide. The seller has been good enough to offer an exchange, but i may not wait for A-N to ship a replacement. No guarantee the next piece won't have bubbles too.

Hopefully the fitment is good. Not inclined to spend this kind of money on their parts again.

[ourlee]

Pics?

[reallymarkedup]

Originally Posted by motorknut

Disappointed that at the price point, this is the kind of finish they provide. The seller has been good enough to offer an exchange, but i may not wait for A-N to ship a replacement. No guarantee the next piece won't have bubbles too.

That's kind of on you then. Why wouldn't you wait for an exchange if it's that bad? Saying there's no guarantee the next piece won't have bubbles based on the one example you've ever seen is a little dramatic don't you think?

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by reallymarkedup

That's kind of on you then. Why wouldn't you wait for an exchange if it's that bad? Saying there's no guarantee the next piece won't have bubbles based on the one example you've ever seen is a little dramatic don't you think?

cos its not a domestic return, and that adds up to an additional 35% of what i already paid. Decided to cut my losses.

Just sharing in case others are considering buying a high priced item for it's reputation of quality. Not sure how it's on me to have encountered a bad piece. Do you go into a shop buying a rolex and expect to have to exchange it for a flaw that would have been visible during QC? I don't. It may be bad luck for me, but thank you for being so empathetic!.

[reallymarkedup]

Originally Posted by motorknut

Just sharing in case others are considering buying a high priced item for it's reputation of quality. Not sure how it's on me to have encountered a bad piece. do you go into a shop buying a rolex and expect to have to exchange it for a flaw that would have been visible during QC? I don't. It may be bad luck for me, but thank you for being so empathetic!.

I said that about your statement that The seller has been good enough to offer an exchange, but i may not wait for A-N to ship a replacement. The additional details you are providing now weren't obvious from the original post.

Originally Posted by motorknut

do you go into a shop buying a rolex and expect to have to exchange it for a flaw that would have been visible during QC?

Yes, if I got it home and discovered a flaw that made it past QC I would expect to exchange it. That's probably the first thing I would do, versus going to the Rolex forum and filing a complaint. If I couldn't exchange it because I lived somewhere that made it cost prohibitive, I would have factored that risk into my original decision to buy the product.

[M_Power Rob]

Originally Posted by reallymarkedup

That's kind of on you then. Why wouldn't you wait for an exchange if it's that bad? Saying there's no guarantee the next piece won't have bubbles based on the one example you've ever seen is a little dramatic don't you think?

Agreed. Shit happens. It was not intentional nor does it mean all parts are manufactured that way. Alpha is a reputable and well known own company.

motorknut I would rest assured if you have spoken to Alpha and they know the issue, they will be sure to not ship you a replacement part with the same or any other issues. As we are talking a replacement custom grille, what is the big deal if you have to wait a few weeks?

[M_Power Rob]

Originally Posted by motorknut

cos its not a domestic return, and that adds up to an additional 35% of what i already paid. Decided to cut my losses.

And I checked around and found out there's been similar instances.

Just sharing in case others are considering buying a high priced item for it's reputation of quality. Not sure how it's on me to have encountered a bad piece. do you go into a shop buying a rolex and expect to have to exchange it for a flaw that would have been visible during QC? I don't. It may be bad luck for me, but thank you for being so empathetic!.

This sounds very off...you spoke with someone at Alpha, not a general operator, that your part was defective and they will not replace it without charging you a 35% fee?

I know people who have purchased from them and have had no issues (just making this statement as you make it sound like it's common place for them having issues).

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by M_Power Rob

This sounds very off...you spoke with someone at Alpha, not a general operator, that your part was defective and they will not replace it without charging you a 35% fee?

I know people who have purchased from them and have had no issues (just making this statement as you make it sound like it's common place for them having issues).

I wouldn’t say it’s common place, but it isn’t a sole case and that is what I’m sharing.

I already explained that I have to pay additional charges for shipping due to it not being a domestic order. That’s a risk I undertook, and isn’t my main point of the post.

Great that you and your friends have had good experiences. But something as basic as clear coat defects that are visible being passed a couple of times for sale, to me is not great news. If you have actually purchased their items and seen how it’s wrapped, it’s also difficult for sellers to check without compromising the original wrapping.

If you say “shit happens” every time someone encounters an unlucky experience, no one can dispute that logic.
I’m sharing in case someone else orders a part, and risks an expensive exchnage process like mine. I paid a premium instead of AliExpress prices for peace of mind, which turned out to be a fail.

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by reallymarkedup

Yes, if I got it home and discovered a flaw that made it past QC I would expect to exchange it. That's probably the first thing I would do, versus going to the Rolex forum and filing a complaint. If I couldn't exchange it because I lived somewhere that made it cost prohibitive, I would have factored that risk into my original decision to buy the product.

Not sure where I said it’s their fault for me having to pay for shipping. But I don’t see the problem with sharing about a poor quality piece that cleared their QC. Which is the main point.

Makes for a happy life that you are so forgiving of manufacturers and expect quality defects off the bat. . It’s also good to be curious than judgmental… next time consider asking clarifying questions before getting snarky.

[reallymarkedup]

Originally Posted by motorknut

Makes for a happy life that you are so forgiving of manufacturers and expect quality defects off the bat. . It’s also good to be curious than judgmental… next time consider asking clarifying questions before getting snarky.

Nah, I'll get snarky whenever I feel like. If you had posted "I received a bad piece AND they told me to kick rocks when I brought it to their attention", I would have been right there with you. Pitchforks out, let's do something about this.

You got a faulty product and refused the replacement. Kind of a non-story.

[M_Power Rob]

Originally Posted by motorknut

I wouldn’t say it’s common place, but it isn’t a sole case and that is what I’m sharing.

I already explained that I have to pay additional charges for shipping due to it not being a domestic order. That’s a risk I undertook, and isn’t my main point of the post.

Great that you and your friends have had good experiences. But something as basic as clear coat defects that are visible being passed a couple of times for sale, to me is not great news. If you have actually purchased their items and seen how it’s wrapped, it’s also difficult for sellers to check without compromising the original wrapping.

If you say “shit happens” every time someone encounters an unlucky experience, no one can dispute that logic.
I’m sharing in case someone else orders a part, and risks an expensive exchnage process like mine. I paid a premium instead of AliExpress prices for peace of mind, which turned out to be a fail.

You must have no friends. Just listen to yourself. I would say most here who have modded cars have received a part that needed to be replaced. Yes, I have had an issue with an AWE cf intake that took over a year till they were able to replace it with a good part. I kept in communication with them, they were apologetic and went out if their way when they could.

If you spoke with someone at Alpha and you truly have a defective part, I have trouble believing they said they would replace it with a 35% price tag (unless of course if you acted to them the way you are here, then maybe you flat out pissed them off and they don't care).

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by ALPHA-N PERFORMANCE

Hello
I have to say it can always be something. We always try to deliver the best possible quality. But even we sometimes overlook something.
In this case here.
Unfortunately, we are not aware of any cases involving the grill. Perhaps no OEM part was sold here either. It all sounds very strange.
But if that is the case. Send us an e-mail with pictures and the original invoice. We'll take a look at it.

Hi

thanks for the note. I have already been in contact with the authorised seller, who has been assisting. I can privately send you photos of the clear coat defects, but I am confident the seller would the appropriate party to handle the exchange, should I choose to proceed.

I have no issues with the seller and after sales service provided by them. They are not at fault for inherent workmanship issues. I am simply disappointed to receive the product with visible defects, considering the subsequent time spent and additional costs in order to process an exchange.

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by ourlee

Pics?

I will DM you the photos. if you aren't a picky buyer, you'll prob think nothing of it. but if i weren't picky. i'd have gone with Aliexpress instead.

If any other potential buyers want to see what i'm referring to before they take the plunge, drop me a DM.

I won't be posting to the thread since personal standards are relative, and to avoid triggering further comments on Exchange Policy instead of Product Quality.

[M_Power Rob]

Originally Posted by motorknut

Hi

thanks for the note. I have already been in contact with the authorised seller, who has been assisting. I can privately send you photos of the clear coat defects, but I am confident the seller would the appropriate party to handle the exchange, should I choose to proceed.

I have no issues with the seller and after sales service provided by them. They are not at fault for inherent workmanship issues. I am simply disappointed to receive the product with visible defects, considering the subsequent time spent and additional costs in order to process an exchange.

What are you being an ass...the company who manufactured the part is trying to help directly. Why not take them up on it instead of still laying blame like a child. Honestly, what your "seller" should have done (and unless they drop shipped it). Why not blame your seller for sending you this supposed horrific part (which I assume are the ones trying to charge you the 35% and nit ALPHA-N PERFORMANCE as you made it seem).

[ourlee]

I’m buying the light performance spoiler at $800, my taste is questionable

[NewToM]

I would just like to note that if alpha-N would like to donate a spoiler for my M2 I will pay to get it painted… would even do that for the hood… just saying.

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by ALPHA-N PERFORMANCE

Please send us a picture of the component

I can’t seem to attach photos in DM, so posting to you here. Let me know if you prefer I delete.

The lighting makes it hard to capture the bumps/dimples but I’ve indicated w circles. Also included a photo where there are creases in the CF.

[defnotmaybe]

That's crazy. You're crying about a part of the grill that:

1) will receive impact while driving

2) once installed you can't see it, because it's hidden by the shadow of the frames and the depth in the bumper

3) Common sense, you're worried about 35% but you can sand, shave, re clear that blemish yourself with a little Youtube University & OR pay a body shop like $50-100

Did you let your mommy know too so she can give you a hug?

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by defnotmaybe

That's crazy. You're crying about a part of the grill that:

1) will receive impact while driving

2) once installed you can't see it, because it's hidden by the shadow of the frames and the depth in the bumper

3) Common sense, you're worried about 35% but you can sand, shave, re clear that blemish yourself with a little Youtube University & OR pay a body shop like $50-100

Did you let your mommy know too so she can give you a hug?

Happy to sell it if you’ll send me USD2200 for what i paid plus shipping to ya. Let me know. Sounds like a good deal for you.

[rons e92]

I wanted to wait a little bit before chiming in here and see what Alpha-N says.

Nothing but quality in my experience.

I'm not trying to throw shade at you, but I think you're being a little bit-picky. I understand it being you spend $2k+ on a part like I did, but you need to really understand how nearly impossible it is to get perfect clear on CF, ESPECIALLY on a part like this with a ton of angles.

They have to clear, sand, clear, and sand again until it levels out, because CF is not flat. It gets to the point where you will realize finishing returns. How many times do you expect Alpha-N to sand and reclear these parts?

The reason the parts are so expensive is because of the quality control. Look at the complexity of the component you're holding.

I had assumed that your issues were much more significant, but after seeing the photos and Alpha-N offering you a replacement, there isn't much else anyone can offer you.

Good luck, sorry you weren't as happy with your experience as I was.

[motorknut]

Originally Posted by rons e92

I wanted to wait a little bit before chiming in here and see what Alpha-N says.

Nothing but quality in my experience.

I'm not trying to throw shade at you, but I think you're being a little bit-picky. I understand it being you spend $2k+ on a part like I did, but you need to really understand how nearly impossible it is to get perfect clear on CF, ESPECIALLY on a part like this with a ton of angles.

They have to clear, sand, clear, and sand again until it levels out, because CF is not flat. It gets to the point where you will realize finishing returns. How many times do you expect Alpha-N to sand and reclear these parts?

The reason the parts are so expensive is because of the quality control. Look at the complexity of the component you're holding.

I had assumed that your issues were much more significant, but after seeing the photos and Alpha-N offering you a replacement, there isn't much else anyone can offer you.

Good luck, sorry you weren't as happy with your experience as I was.

i only shared the imperfections that would be visible during QC. I did not mention other damage that could have occured during packing/shipping. Not the point of the story.

Glad you had better experience with your lip. But I do find your comments contradicting -
expensive cos of quality control,
but also don't expect A-N to have the expertise to paint a perfect gloss coat every time..
and also QC is expensive so they can't make every part perfect
(but isn't that why we pay so much? to compensate for that effort?)

To be clear - I was willing to pay top dollar because its a highly rated manufacturer , since I would be incurring significant tax and shipping costs. I value time and quality, and paid good money thinking i'd get that. My incident could be less common compared to what 95% of genuine buyers experienced - I am just making sure the 5% is also represented.

In terms of the finish - i would have gone with a cheaper variant if I wasn't picky, at < 1/3 the final A-N cost to me.

To be clear, A-N has not offered an exchange - made the mistake of following up directly since they asked to but they seem more upset these defects were posted online than anything else. Overall a disappointing first time with the brand but will write this off. I would encourage anyone shopping for this brand to get it through a reliable dealer who will manage any potential comms with A-N.

Also surprised how so many thread commenters seem to relish the opportunity to spend more time (and $$) on returns, or fixing up these blemishes. Its not worth more of my time imo. Anyone who feels differently is welcome to buy the grille off me at cost and knock yourself out.

Not sure why some of you feel the need to jump on the guy who is sharing a bad luck story, and ridicule the justification. (see the thread by the guy who wasted time trying to install a part that was incorrect from the seller, and how many ppl shat on him for sharing that story).
Real class acts. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullying

Looking at the senseless responses and insults directed at me, I hope what I shared at least benefits some other owner in a similar shopping situation as I was. Just as I am done shopping with A-N, I'm done with this thread.

[M_Power Rob]

Originally Posted by motorknut

i only shared the imperfections that would be visible during QC. I did not mention other damage that could have occured during packing/shipping. Not the point of the story.

Glad you had better experience with your lip. But I do find your comments contradicting -
expensive cos of quality control,
but also don't expect A-N to have the expertise to paint a perfect gloss coat every time..
and also QC is expensive so they can't make every part perfect
(but isn't that why we pay so much? to compensate for that effort?)

To be clear - I was willing to pay top dollar because its a highly rated manufacturer , since I would be incurring significant tax and shipping costs. I value time and quality, and paid good money thinking i'd get that. My incident could be less common compared to what 95% of genuine buyers experienced - I am just making sure the 5% is also represented.

In terms of the finish - i would have gone with a cheaper variant if I wasn't picky, at < 1/3 the final A-N cost to me.

To be clear, A-N has not offered an exchange - made the mistake of following up directly since they asked to but they seem more upset these defects were posted online than anything else. Overall a disappointing first time with the brand but will write this off. I would encourage anyone shopping for this brand to get it through a reliable dealer who will manage any potential comms with A-N.

Also surprised how so many thread commenters seem to relish the opportunity to spend more time (and $$) on returns, or fixing up these blemishes. Its not worth more of my time imo. Anyone who feels differently is welcome to buy the grille off me at cost and knock yourself out.

Not sure why some of you feel the need to jump on the guy who is sharing a bad luck story, and ridicule the justification. (see the thread by the guy who wasted time trying to install a part that was incorrect from the seller, and how many ppl shat on him for sharing that story).
Real class acts. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullying

Looking at the senseless responses and insults directed at me, I hope what I shared at least benefits some other owner in a similar shopping situation as I was. Just as I am done shopping with A-N, I'm done with this thread.

Well, you did take the Ahole approach and publicly bashed them BEFORE contacting them and giving them the opportunity to rectify it. To make matters worse, you continue to bash them.