Dave's Automotive, Misquote Carbondale, Illinois

Because Dave's Auto was recommended by my car dealer to use for any work or repairs that would be reimbursed by my warranty, I called them for help.

My key would not turn in the ingnition. I didn't know if it had anything to do with the gear shift, or not. It had happened twice before, but I was able to jiggle it enough that the key would turn.

Dave's Auto towed my car to their shop. They diagnosed the problem to be that there was a bad ignition unit. They would have to have it re-keyed at True Value, and hoped that they would have it fixed before the end of the day (Friday). At about 2 pm they called to give me a quote. After going over several things that weren't real clear, he told me that it would be $140. I repeated the figure to him, and said that I thought that was reasonable, but wanted the warranty to cover it. Upon calling them, I found that it was considered to be an electrical problem. No coverage.

Well, at 4:30 pm, Dave called me and said the car was done. I asked if I could write him a check, and he said no. My new debit card hadn't come in the mail yet, so I would have to get cash for him. After much discussion, he agreed to pick me up, let me take the car to the ATM and return with the payment. So, I did that.

When I returned, I laid out the $140 on the counter, and he looked at me like was I nuts. I said that was what he had quoted me on the phone. He said, oh no...here's the bill...$307.30!!! We briefly argued about it, and I had no choice but to leave the car with him until I could get the money and close the deal on Monday. He took me home and drove off with my car.

I don't understand how someone can provide a quote verbally and not stand by it. I have no grounds to have the bill revised, so I felt it important that anyone else who might use his services in the future know the problem I had. All I can say is good luck.