Q: Got my car from the repair shop in worse condition than before the repair- Pep Boys.
I brought my car for a battery (on warranty) change and also, asked to change oil, which they do for me regularly- Pep Boy has been my the only place for my car repair/ maintenance for the last 5 years.
Manager said I need a new alternator, and they did all that: new battery, new alternator and regular oil change. 4 days in the shop.
Next day I saw a huge pool of oil on the floor- the oil was dripping before, but now it was leaking at frightening rate, 3-5 times worse.
I drove to Pep Boys and asked to check if they had tightened the oil plug/ oil filter properly, and they did.
Manager said that the car needs serious repairs, which he didn't recommend- the car is 16 years old.
Instead, I will just need to add up the oil every week, or as necessary to keep the car drivable. He sounded friendly and reasonable, and I agreed. However, then I thought- The car was in a certain condition before and after their involvement it’s ion worse condition, and I have to absorb the cost?
A:
Old cars, a dream and a scream. Only 16 years old, it is a pup. The problem with your description is that you do not identify the source of the oil leak. If they stripped the drain plug, they may owe you a new oil pan and plug, which is $$$. Topping off every week while oil pools below the car is not a good cure, it is not even a cure. You need to take car to another independent mechanic and have him evaluate why there is an oil leak. It could be from some part that had nothing to do with the repairs, coincidences do happen! If you get a report that shows that PB was responsible for causing the damage, since you have such a long relationship with them, I would offer them the chance to do the repair at their expense, it would be cheaper than paying for the other mechanic. If they say no, then you have the evidence necessary to have the repair done by an independent mechanic, and you can go to small claims court. Good Luck.
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