Metro Ford Lincoln Mercury Metro Ford Providing negligent service that places drivers in potential risk, Internet
On July 6, 2010 I had my 1999 Ford Explorer Sport serviced with a routine oil and filter change, and had all other fluids topped off (of which I have proof that it was allegedly done). At this time, the mileage was 91,831. On August 28, 2010, after having driven only 402 miles, my car would not start. On August 30th I had the battery replaced at the same Ford dealer, per the mechanics advice. In doing so, I realized that on July 6th the mechanics that had serviced my car had not properly sealed the power steering shaft where the fluid is poured into. As a result, there was fluid spilled all over the engine (of which I have various pictures). I later learned that the power steering fluid could have caused the belt to slip, allowing the alternator to be unable to recharge the battery.
Furthermore, the Ford dealer mechanics now state that the power steering pump is broken, as well as both joint assemblies and both arm assemblies, all of which could have occurred as a result of the power steering fluid leaking on the engine for 402 miles. At the present time, my car has been at the dealer for four days and they have refused to cover the entire cost of fixing it. The Service Advisor that has been in contact with me states that driving my car in this condition could be potentially dangerous, but he stated that the managers refused to take ownership over their mistake of not leaving the power steering lid properly sealed in the first place. The power steering pump is broken as a result of the fluid leak, but they claim we waited too long to notice. As a consumer, I trust that when I take my car to the mechanic, especially a dealer, they are knowledgeable and conscientious when they do their job.
To resolve this problem, I would like for Metro Ford to take ownership over a problem that could have been avoided, had they properly sealed the power steering lid in the first place. They must pay for the entire cost of fixing my car, not just the power steering pump, but the joint assembly and arm assemblies, as well as they must reimburse us for the new battery we bought as a result of their negligence.
In the meantime, the Miami Dade County Consumer Services Department, the Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection, and the Better Business Bureau have all been notified of this complaint and of Metro Fords lack of responsibility in this matter.