Mr. Mike wrote:
> That said, I've had the local britcar
>folks do some work for me and once or twice had them call and
>say "We got inside your frobnitz and the gizmo is scored" or
>somesuch and say that a used, solid one is $$ and a new one is
>$$$ and which do I want, (and usually waive the labour). I
>don't mind that so much. But don't decide to put in a new
>one, charge me 2 hours at $65 per (all over estimate) and then
>expect me to swallow it after the fact while holding my car
>hostage. That's not good business.
Here in CT, that's not only bad business, it's illegal. You should recieve
a written estimate for any work to be done. If the estimate is wrong, they
must recieve your ok to procede. Most of the mechanics I have used (not
for Brit cars) will fix minor problems free of charge. It it takes longer
than estimated, again free of charge. Often, a good mechanic will come in
under estimate.
Also, in CT, there is a state book that list common repairs and how long
they should take. A mechanic cannot charge for more labor than what is
listed. Occasionaly, even a good mechanic will encounter a situation which
is new to him and the repair will take a little longer. You should not
have to pay for his education.
As Mr. Mike pointed out. If they cannot give you an accurate estimate,
they probably do not know what they are doing. Also, a good mechanic will
warn you up front of any complications that might arise.
Regards,
Peter J. Thomas
Nuclear weapons can wipe out life on Earth, if used properly. -- Talking
Heads
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