Car repair place - how would you handle this? (1 Viewer)

[T J]

So I took my car into the dealership and describe a noise I'm hearing. I had taken this car to a couple places previously  - one of which was a reputable transmission place (another earlier place said it wasn't bearings but sounded like it was coming from the transmission and suggested I have them look at it). So the transmission place looks at it, said it wasn't the transmission, but rather something else which they don't fix but told me what they thought the noise was (intermediate shaft bearing - whatever that is).

I take that info to the dealership thinking that was the problem and ask them to confirm and fix it. They come back and tell me it's something else entirely, have to order a part and come back a few days later which I did. $850 later, they tell me I'm good to go. I'm no further than out the lot then the noise resumes and clearly the repair I was seeking is not done. I take it back, have one of their techs in the car with me who hears the noise as well and feels the vibration so it goes back in again tomorrow. 

The dealership says that what they fixed needed fixed and says they'll only charge parts next time around. To me, I paid $850 for something that wasn't what I brought it in for because I still have the problem. How do I know if what they say needed fixed actually did need fixed? I'm ticked off, but not sure what my recourse is, if any. And especially so if the fix I handed them on a platter turns out to be the one that was needed all along. 

Thoughts?

 

[chet]

Talk to the GM of the dealership and if you aren't satisfied, tell him you're going to report the dealership to the BBB and post negative reviews on Yelp etc. 

 

[Apple Jack]

Escalate it. Sounds like bull#### and a perfect example of why I avoid getting work done at dealerships in major metro areas.

 

[chet]

Call the neighborhood watchdog reporter for the local news station.

 

[jvdesigns2002]

Ask to speak to the general manager of the dealership and explain the situation. Clearly explain to him/her that you cannot and should not be penalized for a mistake that his staff made.  They did work that you did not ask for.   I'd also explain to him/her that should the situation not be made right that you will have no choice but to write a review on yelp (as well as other review sites) and contact the BBB to file a complaint.   While it might not seem like a strong move--a negative review on yelp could cost a company lots of money in regards to future business.   While I'd never condone the use of writing reviews to blackmail businesses--in this particular case--I think you have a legitimate gripe where the business has an obligation to make right.  If they don't--I think it's important that the rest of the public be aware of how this business conducts itself.