Yep, was shocked the first time I booked an AA domestic F seat, turned up at the lounge, only to find a domestic F booking doesn't give you lounge access. I switched to Delta as I can get in using my AMEX Platinum card + Delta booking.

The only thing that frustrates me a little with CE is that they let anyone move up to row 1 if it's available at check-in. I had the strangest individual in 1C recently (I was in 1A). He smelled awful, his trainers were filthy and he came on-board with his own beer....and opened a can whilst taking off. Never seen that before. I thought the crew would have a word, but apparently it's fine to do that.