Complaint Review: Timonium Hi Tech Automotive

I took my car to Hi Tech Automotive to have my head gasket replaced, my oil changed, and my ignition switch replaced. Since I work Monday through Friday during business hours, I dropped off my car the night before (2/25/03). I had no face-to-face interaction with the shop owner or any of the mechanics/employees; all conversations were over the phone. Total cost was $1263.77. I gave my credit card information over the phone for payment of the bill.

Before picking up the car, I asked that they leave it in the parking lot of the shop with the doors LOCKED and the key UNDERNEATH my floor matt. I went to pick my car on 2/28/03. The car was UNLOCKED, there was no key under the matt nor did he leave me my payment receipt.

Driving home, I noticed that my speedometer and odometer were not working at all. In fifth gear, my mph was at 0. My car was running hotter than it ever has before as well (normally it is between 160-180, now it is between 210-230).

I called the shop and spoke with Andy, who had been my point of contact throughout this experience. I explianed to him what was wrong with the car, and in a very hurried manner he asked that I bring it back so that they can "have a look at it." He did not apologize or show any empathy. We hung up, but I called back to express to him that I am very concerned and upset by the condition of my vehicle. Since this was my first visit to this shop, I told him that at this point, I cannot be confident that the rest of the work done to my was car was even done at all, much less done correctly.

I expressed uncomfort with the fact that they still have my car key and my home address. Andy assured me that he has my key. I ended the conversation by saying that I will bring in the car as soon as possible; probably on Monday, 3/3/03. He said ok, and ended the phone call. Again, no empathy or apology; he simply stated that he "understood" my reason for concern.

Beatrice
Owings Mills, Maryland
U.S.A.