Auburn Radiator & Auto Repair

Review: The mechanic did not inform myself or my husband of the complete issues of replacing our radiator and hoses. He did not inform us of the possible impacts on other components of the cooling system. When I called him about the immediate impact to our water pump, he started yelling that it is an older car. I know the car is older, but the labor to replace the water pump, is removing the radiator and hoses ~ $350. To replace the water pump we have to pay for the labor we just paid for. Not only was he inept at informing his customers about the possible impacts to the cooling system, we would have replaced the water pump also, but he was not professional when he responded to my complaint. I feel that he deliberately did not inform us of the impacts to my vehicle. My last Subaru lasted 17 years because I took care of it.Desired Settlement: I would like to be reimbursed for the labor costs. I will have to pay another mechanic to access and replace my water pump. Basically removing the new radiator and hoses to access and replace my water pump. The radiator fluid will also have to be replaced and I want to be reimbursed for its cost.

Business

Response:

Our Customer, [redacted], invoice #[redacted], the owner of 2000 Subaru Outback. This vehicle came into our business due to a split upper tank on the radiator, that was leaking. Mr. [redacted] advised the radiator had been leaking for a time. He was advised what the problem was with the radiator what it would take to correct the problem along with the cost to correct the problem. This would entailed the replacement of the radiator along with the upper and lower hoses. Mr. [redacted] was advised of the cost, and authorized the repairs by signing the work order, A new complete radiator along with upper and lower hoses were installed along with flushing the cooling system and replacement of the coolant. Prior to notifying the customer repairs had been completed the system was pressured check, test driven and monitor for at least 30 minutes for any leaks. The owner was contacted the work had been complete and there was no leaks. With 40 years of experience it is our practice prior to a vehicle leaving the facility is pressure check, test drive and monitor the vehicle. The purpose of this practice is to check for any leaks after the repairs. Should Mr. [redacted] vehicle had developed any leaks after this test, he would had been advised of the problem, along with the cost. Again the vehicle was returned to the owner with no leaks A few days after the repairs we were contacted by [redacted] advising us of the issue with the water pump. It is unfortunate the vehicle develop the problem with the water pump after the our repairs. We completed the work to Mr. [redacted] satisfaction and do not believe we owe any funds to Ms. [redacted] for the problem which developed after our repairs. Should you have any questions, please contact [redacted] at [redacted]