So, I have an old 1992 Toyota pickup that had a problem with it misfiring at low idle. I normally take my vehicle to a mechanic I know and trust, but based upon online reviews, I took it here, also because it was close to where I live. I arrived in the morning, and they were very kind and advised me there would be a $75.00 diagnosis charge. No problem. They gave me a ride home which was nice. I certainly do not want to judge, but what made me put the brakes on anything further was that I received a call about 5 hours later advising me the entire diagnosis charge would be $192.00, not $75.00. I asked them not to do any further work and I would come and pick my vehicle up. So, I did. I fully expected to pay the $75.00, however, they did not charge me. That was a class act and I very much appreciate it. The copy of the repair order balances was 0, but the service notes had a myriad of potential/recommended costs, to the tune of over $1,000.00 without the $192.00 diagnosis charge. Quite possibly all the things my old truck needs are accurate, but when the costs outweigh the value of the vehicle, that was my concern. I certainly wish I had developed a relationship with Shadetree Automotive before I went there. They seemed professional. I probably ruined my experience by reading online reviews that were mostly great and a few super negative and nothing in the middle. Also, it would have been a huge benefit if they had the endorsement of the BBB. Nonetheless, I want to thank Shadetree Automotive for being kind and sensing I had some concerns about the charges. Maybe, I will go and say hello, because I just want to find a repair place I can completely trust since I have a few vehicles. And, maybe, they are the right shop.
