I took my car into the shop for a $48 front-end alignment. I also asked they replace one or two worn wheel bearings in the passenger rear wheel. I would have done it myself, but didn't have time, so I know what is involved.
I left for the day, and when I returned, I was informed I didn't need an alignment, so they only charged me about $20-$24. But the total bill was nearly $120! For the bearings! He told me he'd packed both sides, etc. They did not okay this additional work, nor did they tell me it was going to cost this much, or I'd have either done it myself, or taken it elsewhere.
I went in the next day to talk to the owner, but the most he would refund me was $20! They tried to explain to me what was involved, making it sound more difficult than it was (I am female, so maybe they thought I was dumb about these things). He asked me what I thought would be fair. I said $50. He said no way. $20. Finally, I relented to $30. He said no way. I don't know why he asked if he already had a token figure in mind. He agreed the mechanic was wrong to do the work without informing me, but he would not relent. It's a new owner, but the same old business.
Our town touts the 'shop at home' theme. But now, as with many other things, I will be taking my business out of town.
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