Had a certain issue with my car. It was related to a previous repair done. I knew when there was a reaction in the way it was driving, but there was a problem with that repaired part or something that interacted with that repair part. I took it back to the same shop that had done the initial repair and asked him to check it out. They basically told me I was imagining things I’m at the part was fine, but to keep my eyes on it if it did anything more and that maybe they would replace that part if things happened to get worse because that’s the only part it could be. Well, it got worse. I then made sure to go and get it checked. At a different place this time, one that had not basically told me I was crazy. And yes, they told me I was absolutely right about them part being broken, and furthermore that it was damaging the part that had been replaced. Ended up having to replace both the broken part and re-released the part that the other shop had put on. So, don’t know if it’s because I’m a woman or because they just didn’t want to deal with me, but got told that I was imagining mechanical failures on a machine that if it failed, could actually kill me if I’m going high speed. I hate not being taken seriously. The second place actually treated me with respect, told me that the other place shouldn’t have dismissed the issue which they said was easy to find and very obvious, and they did help me with a better price for fixing the problem. I know where I’ll be taking my business in the future, even if it’s out of my way.
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A mechanic you can trust is worth its weight in gold. Some are so crooked that they try to scam every customer as much as they can get away with.
You should let the first garage know the repair wasn’t done properly. If you don’t want a confrontation, mail them a letter. I’d mention you asked them to check it on x/x date, they refused, car kept having the problem, and servicing the part elsewhere solved the problem. Ask for what you want, such as a partial refund of $x. When they don’t reply, report them everywhere. https://www.bbb.org/ is a good place to start. If they still won’t do anything for you, be sure to leave 1 star reviews everywhere.
I’m old, so I’ve seen my share of mechanical problems and mechanics. May I make a suggestion? Whenever possible try to read up on the part or error code. Watch a few youtubes or visit discussion sites. Don’t be afraid to ask the mechanic a few questions. You can also ask after the repair to see the broken part. My mechanic insists on showing everyone the broken part and will point out the damage on it.
It may very well be true that mechanics will blow you off because you’re a woman. But you gotta stand up to that bs. Just because others won’t take your concerns seriously doesn’t mean they’re not valid. Be “rude”. The squeaky wheel gets the grease.
Leave a 2 star review on yelp and google for the OG shop. And a 5star on the new shop.
Hate places like that.