I was slightly disappointed, overall. Employees were friendly and very co-operative and communication was good.
The diagnosis charge seemed excessive, based on the tech's own description, and time spent/charged overlapped the actual R&R of the component, which was billed separately. Also the charge ($75.96) for installing six spark plugs, was excessive, given the fact that they were already exposed, during the other repair.
Your parts prices are excessive. They are even quite a bit higher than factory parts. The gasket, priced, by you at $31.17 can be purchased locally for $10.00 and the fuel injector (your price $114.00) can be purchased at the Chrysler dealership for $87.00. New aftermarket injectors can be purchased, locally, for less than $50.00. Youe explanation of the overpricing was not convincing.
I realize that it has become common practice to charge an "environmental" fee, but considering that my work did not involve anything hazardous, I think $24.84 was excessive. I recently (12/19/2014) spent over $2,500.00 on a transmission overhaul (which definitely involves "hazardous" waste disposal) and their "hazmat" fee was $20.00!
I was disappointed, and it is unacceptable, that your service writer could not tell me your hourly rate.
I shall mention that I had over 25 years of experience in auto repair from the grease rack, to service manager, to parts manager,
to owning my own independent shop , and I am very familiar with the flat rate system. I used to make a lot of money by "beating the flat rate". I also recognize the need to make a profit.
I came to your shop because I heard that it was a "Christian" organization. None of my "complaints" should be considered as finding anything unethical or dishonest. I just think that you are overcharging for the services provided.
I have no complaint, as to the actual work done.
I do, however find some "fault" in the accuracy of items on your "vehicle checkup" list. All he brake pads and rotors were replaced on this vehicle less than 6,000 mi ago. I doubt that the fronts have used 30% of the pad already. I realize this was just an "estimate", but it was not very close. Additionally. I have been watching the tires rather closely, due to alignment problems, and I know that the rear tires, (recently switched with the fronts 638 miles ago) are worn unevenly and far less tread than the fronts (which had been on the rear).
Therefore, I know, for a fact, that no one actually measured it. I think putting an exact number on a check list should indicate an actual measurement, not a "guess".
I hope these comments are taken as constructive criticism.
Respectfully, Robert Hough
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