I took my 2000 Ford explorer to Just brakes for the special of a 99 dollars brake pad and rotor resurface. I called ahead of time and verified the cost. This is the typical bait and switch tactic.
I got to the store and the manager said, "can you hang around so that we can examine your brakes with you?" I said yes and they proceeded to take the wheels off and they brought me out.
I examined the brakes and found that the left rear rotor was scarred and the brake was metal to medal. I was taken to the other brakes and they looked like they were only one half used. So, I was taken to the front of the store where the rotors were measured and was told that I would need a new left rear rotor and the four callipers would need to be reconditioned. 1 rotor would cost me 79.99 and the four callipers would be 104.00 each to recondition. I would also need two new rear brake hoses. I would also need to have the system bled and that would be 69.00. So, with the initial brake repair, it would be over 650 dollars!
I told him that I just wanted the brakes pads replaced and the remaining 3 rotors resurfaced and then I suddenly had 3 MECHANICS staring at me all telling me how unsafe it would be to neglect the callipers. I told them that I would replace the left rear rotor myself and the reply was that it would cost the same in parts if they did it. I felt as if I was ganged up on. SCARE TACTICS!!! So I called the local (competitor's name deleted - see below) and got prices.
The left rear rotor that was quoted at 79.99 was 35.00 at (competitor) - new. The caliper for the left rear that needed to be reconditioned at 104.00 was 34.00 brand new at (competitor). Let me think, reconditioned or brand new?
I finally told them that I had mechinic skills and would take care of it myself. (I had been a mechanic for 6 years but was now a doctor and just wanted to pay for the 99.00 for the repair. Patients don't like greasy fingernails touching them). Finnially I had to raise my voice and tell them just to replace the four pads and resurface the 3 rotors. The 4th rotor would be out of spec if they did. Which I understood.
When I Got home, I had allready purchased the rotor and the calliper. WHen I got the wheel off, the rotor popped off really easy and I was done with the repair and about 10 minutes. The rear calliper was functioning just fine. I have been driving for about 2 weeks now and all is well.
Lesson:
1. Don't ever take your car to Just Brakes
2. Price the repair at your local auto parts store to see if you are getting the best price and don't get suckered for premium brake pads
3. Don't wear scrubbs when you take the car in, it'll make you look a little suseptable. My Fault!
After all was said and done, I spent 99.00 plus tax for the brake repair and 35.00 for the new rotor. 140.00 total. Not bad. Oh, I wore latex gloves and my patients are still happy.:}
Good luck
James
Dallas, Texas
U.S.A.
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