I was traveling from Miami to SC and my transmission went out at mm226, Titusville Fl. Called the local Aamco franchise as it was the only name I knew to ask for in the area. Got Don on the phone. Very nice and pleasant and promised a free tow and got me to his shop about 4pm. Said he'd do a free diagnostic in the morning. Son had to be at high school graduation next day so we rented a car and continued on our way. Don called next morning with much bad news. Claims the starter boltdown tab was broken and they would have to replace the starter. Broke two exhaust manifold studs pulling the manifold and that would have to be reworked. All that with a rebuilt transmssion over $3,000.00.
First problem: When I questioned the cost of replacing the starter I'm quoted over $200.00. But wait! A starter only costs about $100.00 and the labor to pull and replace is already built into the R&R transmission service.
Second problem: Explained that I felt the price was too high and was going to check other transmission shops in the area. Oh, that's fine, but I owe him $700.00 for the R&R even if he doesn't do the work. I asked why I hadn't gotten a report after the supposed 'free' diagnostic that was going to be 'done in the morning', and was told I gave up that option when I had signed a disclaimer that I would authorize a certain dollar value of repairs. Don't misunderstand, I expect to pay for a repair estimate for something as involved as a transmission, but $700.00 for 3-4 hours, if that, of work to find out what needs to be done is pretty outrageous.
So now I've got quotes for rebuilding the transmission for half the price, but I have to pay this guy $700.00 to get my vehicle out of his grasp.
Don't go!!! This particular shop wants nothing but to take as much of your money as they can get their hands on.
Forewarned is forearmed and if ever confronted with a service disclaimer that you are going to approve a dollar value of repairs beforehand write '0'
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