Our vehicle: A 2007 Hyundai Sonata 4-Cylinder. Odometer 22,335 miles.
Dec 18, 2008: We broke down on the way from Flagstaff to Phoenix. I?d noticed on I-17 that when I applied the accelerator on hills, the engine whirred somewhat, as though I had the clutch slightly in ? though I was in 5th and had no need to change gears. I wanted to have it looked at in Phoenix, but near Camp Verde, the clutch began failing totally, causing us to pull over for assistance.
We had the car towed to Diamond Hyundai, Flagstaff.
Their "enterprise" looks nearly abandoned and they seem to call mechanics when needed. They seem to need a few days to get anyone in.
Dec. 19th: We called Diamond and Sandra told us they would determine whether or not it was covered under warranty.
Dec. 22nd: We received a call from Sandra. A repair person had determined a defect and all repair would be under warranty. They were ordering the parts.
Dec 24th: We went to Diamond to check on the repair. Sandra again said ?everything?s covered?.
Dec 26th: We called again. Work delayed because of the holidays.
Dec 29th: Sandra told us the car would be ready Friday, Jan 2.
Jan 2, 2009: Sandra thought it would be finished late that day and would call to confirm. Otherwise, Mon, the 5th. Again we said appreciated the warranty.
Jan 5: Sandra announced it was NOT covered ? a ?Hyundai representative? had determined ?misuse? . The price would be $3,100 ? a real shock.
We spoke with service people at Martin Swanty, Kingman, and 2 other garages.
1.) The $3,100 seemed exorbitant.
2.) Diamond's reputation provoked laughter at 2 sites.
3.) Clutch coverage is always open to dispute - anyone can say, ?it 's the driver?s fault.?
4.) Swanty allows 7 hours for the job - Diamond "a day and a half".
Jan. 17: Diamond informed us they've ordered the parts!
Pros: Diamond compromised before we towed it away and after seeing an estimate from Swanty, Kingman.
Cons: Service staff seem to be on call. Never rely on anything they say.
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