Sullivan Tire Price gouging customers; quoting for unneeded repairs Westbrook Maine

Dropped off my vehicle at Sullivan Tire on August 4, 2008 for state inspection and 4 wheel alignment. I own a 2001 Nissan Xterra. I was called first thing that morning claiming that my rear wiper motor and my driver side power window motor both needed to be replaced in order to pass inspection. In addition, I was told that the camber was off by 2 degrees and additional work was needed, in addition to the alignment. The serviceman assumed I was bringing it in because it was pulling, which it was not. I just wanted it done, as I want an alignment done at least once per year, especially because of Maine's treacherous roads.

Needless to say, I'm not impressed w/ Sullivan. First off, the power window is fully functional. The serviceman claimed that I needed to have the motor replaced because the window would not go up when the button was pushed. The reality is that you need to push it slightly harder "than normal" (don't ask me what it means) and that the state requires it to work without any "hassle". Again, the window works fine. I was definitely perplexed.

The rear wiper does not work, so I guess I have no arguement on that needing to be done, but the serviceman explained that part is a "grey area" and the decision lies solely on the mechanic if that actually needs to be done. Hmmmmm....I wonder what Sullivan is going to suggest to me in this situation?

The quote for all of this work (window motor, rear wiper motor and additional camber adjustment work) was quoted to me as $1100.00--even though none of it is needed in order to pass inspection, I was told I couldn't get a passed inspection unless these were done.

About 3 hours later, I got a passed inspection from a nearby garage. The mechanic explained that Sullivan is notorious for price gouging and suggesting frivilous repairs. Furthermore, after reading Sullivan's written estimate, he stated he could perform the exact spectrum of work for at least $400 less, if not more. He further pointed that the labor rate was way too high and the parts quoted were double or even triple of his actual cost. And, as stated above, he passed my inspection making it rather clear that the vehicle was is fine working condition and more than acceptable to the state's inspection laws.

Bases on previous reports filed on Sullivan, this instance does not surprise me. After speaking w/ other friends and family, my experiences did not differ either from thiers. Now, I know what I always see thier commercials during the Red Sox games--it's because they are overcharging all of thier customers and can afford to do it.

Jason
Westbrook, Maine
U.S.A.