Complaint Review: David's Engine Transmission Service

I needed a new engine for my truck, so I got the name and address of a local company that "specializes" in engine replacement at a reasonable cost. I had my truck towed to David's Engine Transmission Service in Kent, WA. Located at 27848-152nd Ave. S.E., Kent, WA 98042.

On the phone I was told that the cost of the engine replacement would be $2199.00 which was to include tax, and everything. The towing was supposed to be free. I made a down-payment of $900.00 and signed an estimate with the understanding that the cost would not be more than $2500.00 to $2600.00 maximum, including some accessories to prevent any trouble with the new engine, such as a new thermostat, plug wires, other little things.

When I asked for my copy of the estimate, the owner (David) said that I didn't need it because it was no more than a receipt for the down-payment, and he refused to give me the copy.

I found out later that what he did is in violation of the law. He is supposed to give me a copy of anything I sign. I had explained that I would have to Pay the balance off in a couple of payments because I'm paid every two weeks and can't come up with the full amount at once. He said he wouldn't even get the replacement engine until he had another payment to cover the cost.

The next thing I know, he's calling me to say that the truck is done and I owe him $3500.00 and change, so I ask him to fax a copy of the estimate to my employer for me to check out. I know I didn't agree to that amount and when I get the copy of the estimate, he's altered it and added things I didn't agree on. He even checked off a box that said I didn't want a copy of the written estimate and added a section stating that there is a $25.00 per day storage fee until I can pay off the bill and pick up the truck. There was never any mention of a storage fee, or some of the other charges that were added to the estimate. I even have a witness that was with me when I made the down-payment and signed the estimate.

I can't afford a lawyer, and he (David) apparently figured this out. I'm so upset, I don't know what to do. I filed a report with the state Attorney Generals Office, but I don't think they can do much. I've tried to contact a couple of lawyers, but I guess they don't take such trivial cases, because they never returned my calls.

Isn't there something I can do about this guy ripping me off? Now he's informed me that he has a lien against my truck, and intends to sell it. And I'm still out the $900.00!! This must be illegal. What can I do? Thank you for any help you can provide. Victoria Scott-Harris