Complaint Review: Battison Auto Group

In November, 2005, I called Battison Auto Group to pick up my 1995 1-Ton Dodge Dually with a normally very reliable Cummins Diesel engine. The engine would turn over but would not start. I assume the diesel fuel had gelled due to below freezing outside temperatures.

They had my truck in their shop for more than 3 weeks trying different fuel pumps and other remedies. They informed me that their mechanic, whom they said was a qualified Diesel mechanic, was unable to get the engine to run properly. Finally they just gave up on it.

They offered to return the truck to me in non-running condition, but they wanted me to pay them over $2000.00 in repair expenses. This seemed absurd to me, so I let them assume ownership of the truck and I paid them nothing.

Their incompetence cost me not only a reliable 1-Ton truck, but I also lost my "job" because hauling trailers for a living was my livelihood. Without my truck I became unemployed, and still remain so to this day.

Does anyone know if I have any legal recourse to recover any damages? My total lose is about $15,000 for the truck's value plus my lost income. Any advice will be most appreciated.

Brian
Marlow, Oklahoma
U.S.A.