University Imports Automotive

Review: Business owner was unable to adequately explain charges above and beyond original estimate.

I took my 2001 Honda Accord into University Imports on July 20,2016 for a complete tune-up, timing belt and water pump replacement with an original estimate provided at $1100. Without prior approval, the total charges upon completion of the job came to $1649.13. I was told that the increase in cost was related to removal of bolts that were associated with accessing the timing belt, and that these bolts would not tighten when putting the engine back together. A total of $240 was itemized for this additional service. The business owner then told me that a 10% increase would not be unreasonable for a repair of this kind given the possible complications related to an older automobile. Obviously, the additional $549.13 is not within the "10%" statement made by the owner, and this increase is actually 50%.

While I understand that problems can arise during a repair, I believe the business should account for this possibility on the original estimate. I also think that any repair that will be greater than the stated "10%" above the original estimate should be approved before any repairs are made.Desired Settlement: I think that the business should be responsible for the additional labor costs related to the repair. The parts related to re-assembly of the engine show a cost of $81.00, and this seems like a reasonable amount to pass on to the customer.

Business

Response:

RE: Revdex.com Complaint ID 11588813I received correspondence from your office regarding a complaint filed with the Revdex.com. After contacting Mr. [redacted] this complaint has been resolved to the customers satisfaction. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further information you may need.Thank you,[redacted]Owner

Consumer

Response:

The business owner called me and stated that he would provide a refund for the amount of the labor cost associated with the repair that was not approved in advance.