Bob's Automotive

While Mr. Freeman is correct that we didn't "fix anything", what he neglected to state was, "THAT WAS HIS CHOICE" He brought his 2002 VW Beetle in because it was running rough, Mr Freeman had already attempted repais on his own and had installed a new ignition coil and other parts. Because his efforts failed he decided to bring it to us and let us find out what the issues were , then he could repair it himself. Our Certified Diagnostic Technician spent approximately 1.5 hours to determine the exact issues surrounding Mr Freeman's concerns. Mr Freeman was charged for 1.0 hours of Diagnostic time $119.65 + tax & fees. The reason for spending so much time on Mr Freeman's vehicle is simple. When we are dealing with a high mileage vehicle with an engine that is rough running, the need to determine the condition of the internal engine condition can save the customer a lot of money. We determined early the vehicle needed a complete tune-up. How ever due to the vehicle's high mileage it was imperative that we perform a cylinder compression and a cylinder Leak Down test, because putting tune-up parts in an engine with a burnt, leaking valve, piston or other damage is simply a waste of money! Mr Freeman obviously expects us to pay a tecnician a good living wage to find out what was ailing his vehicle, tell him exactly what it needed and not charge for our time and knowledge, this is simply unfair and not reasonable! Then lie about the entire episode, which makes him feel justified, but he knows better and the truth is the truth, say what you will, but facts still do not change! Good bye Mr Freeman we invite you to go elswhere from now on, your presence is not wanted in this establishment.

I have appologized to Mr. S. In the 25 years we have been in business, I cannot remember another instance of this happening. The young man who performed this work is no longer employed by us. His firing was not over this matter alone but an overall lack of attention to detail. We are sorry to see Mr. S go away unhappy, because this was an isolated incident. We are not perfect, we strive to be, but we are human. We take this review very seriously and this review prompted a shop meeting concerning attention to even the smallest detais. Our Tecnicians are not paid on commission, so they are not rushed, so there is NO EXCUSE for this ever happening. That message, I have yet again, made perfectly clear! Again we do appologize.

The alternator on Mr Dunnings vehicle failed on a Friday evening. He called to my home and asked for assistance, it was too late in the evening to get his parts, so I asked him to have his vehicle towed to the our shop, even though we are closed on Saturday. He also asked if I could change his thermostat and make a few other minor repairs. I told him I would come in at 8:00 AM and repair it. I showed up and the vehicle wasn't there, I had some paperwork to take care after a couple of hours the tow truck showed up. Mr Dunning called and asked me to just do the alternator. I confirmed the alternator was faulty and I drove to Vancouver to get a replacement, I installed the part, during the work I found Mr Dunnings vehicle had several other issues besides the thermostat among them was a failing water pump. I advised Mr Dunning of the things I found and advised him to pay close attention to his guages durring the rest of his trip as his vehicle is in need of immediate repairs and it could overheat at anytime. I billed Mr Dunning at our regular rate, not an overtime rate! His alternator was charging when it left here and before he left I explained our 3 year, 36,000 Mile Nationwide Warranty and Nationwide Free Roadside Assistance Plan. This review is the first I have heard about any issues. I can assure you that if someone did incorrect work for me I would be on the phone calling and getting an explanation! This did not happen, nor has our National Warranty called to ask what happend so it has not been turned int to them! Having performed the work myself and have over 50 years experience, an incorrect installment of an alternator is almost impossible, and still have the system work and I am not suprised theat Mr Dunning has to buy new parts for his vehicle as it was in poor condition and in need of repairs in several different areas.