My 1991 Toyota truck was losing a lot of power when I drove, and I brought it in to Bow Mar Shell on August 20 for service on the power problem, and a standard oil change. I was told by a tech that the problem with the power failing was an alternator, battery, and belt, and all needed to be replaced. I just had the alternator replaced by this garage in and I thought it "odd" that it already had to be replaced, but I have always trusted that garage as I have been there several times over the years, and I thought they would stand behind their work with honesty and integrity.
I picked up my truck on Saturday, August 20, late in the evening, and drove it home, which is a block away from Bow Mar Shell, with no problems. On Sunday, August 21, I drove it, and about half a mile from my place - just slowing down to a stop, the engine idled rough and then would die at a complete stop. My truck did this coming to every stop, so I brought it back to them that day. I have never had this problem before, and I thought this might have something to do with the previous day's repairs.
Again, Bow Mar Shell checked my truck on August 22, and called me back that morning. They informed me that now my truck needed an auxiliary air valve and gasket, which with all parts and labor would cost $360 to replace. The owner said, a DIRECT QUOTE, it was just "an odd coincidence" that this is new problem occurred right after they replaced the battery and alternator. This conversation left me feeling uneasy and for good reason. I called 6 different import shops, and not one mechanic had ever replaced an auxiliary air valve in a Toyota, and almost all of them told me that Bowmar Shell was selling me a lie.
I went to another shop, and in 10 minutes making a small adjustment, my truck is running better than it has in a long time. They didn't even charge me a dime for it.
I really questioned which repairs on August 20 were even necessary, especially since I replaced the alternator just two years ago. So, I wrote a letter to them copying the Better Business Bureau. To my surprise, the BBB got in touch with them, and they had no explanation to their actions and offered me $400 for a refund, which would have solved this matter, but I NEVER GOT THE CHECK.instead I got a handwritten "we're sorry" note from THE OWNER'S WIFE, with a coupon for 1 free oil change (which will expire March). I am still trying to get my money back from Bow Mar Shell. This company and owners are people who claim to be "good Christians", who are unethical and lie. Do not go to Bow Mar Shell. They recommend expensive and unnecessary auto repairs.
0 comments