My daughter took her 1996 Oldsmobile to Monroe Muffler on McKinley Pkwy, Blasdell, NY for a NYS Inspection in December. They said in order to pass they needed to install a new serpentine belt for $110.99. The manager said the belt was frayed but could not show me any fraying or wear. The belt was about one year old with very low miles. We left minus the inspection sticker and $21.00.
The next day my daughter took the car to Towne Ford in Orchard Park. She told the manager what happened at Monroe Muffler and after looking at the belt he said that he would not fail the car for that reason. When she picked the car up after a complete inspection, the manager told her that he had three other inspectors examine the belt and all agreed that it was in good condition.
I complained to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and they conducted a full investigation including interviewing both repair shops and inspecting and photographing the belt. They determined that Monroe Muffler was in violation of NYS Law. They were issued two citations and ordered to refund the inspection fee.
This was obviously an attempt to increase profits by taking advantage of a young girl who has no knowledge of automobile repair.
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