Complaint Review: Power Toyota Irvine

Julio Romero at Power Toyota Irvine called me in the morning to tell me they found a big problem on my 2004 Sienna. The minivan was there because of recall jobs. The problem he told me was that front lower control arms were falling apart, very dangerous to drive, and replacement was needed right away. It would cost $2300. I told him to send his estimate in email, and he did. 

=========== Julio's email
Here is the information you requested regarding the damage found to the front suspension. Both lower control arms need to be replace due to bushings worn out and torn.  Front lower sub-frame needs to come out to remove the lower control arms.  After removing the front suspension we need to and new control arms are replaced we need to perform a front wheel alignment.  Due to the severity of the lower control arm damage the front tires need to also be replaced.  Parts and Labor to replace lower control arms:  $1,112.59 (a side) both sides need to be replaced.  Total cost for both lower control arms - $2,225 plus Front wheel alignment $89.88.  If necessary I will provide you with a rental while repairs are being performed. If you have any questions feel free to contact me any time.  Here is a picture to better help you understand the repairs that are needed.

============ My reply
Julio,
Thank you for the information, however, just perform original recall jobs only. 
Your estimate didn't have breakdown. I need to see what parts you are going to replace and how many hours of labor. Otherwise I can't compare with others. Thanks.

============ Julio's email
Parts:  $465.18Labor:  $1760.00  (16hr. at $110)  -  8hrs a side for repairsAlignment: $89.88


I didn't authorize them to do this. I just went there to pick up my Sienna. Recall jobs were free.

Next day I went to my old mechanic in Santa Ana. I showed him Julio's email. He lifted my minivan and looked at the area Power Toyota claimed to be falling apart. Ron, the owner of the place, told me it would be $500 to replace bushings and it would take a few hours.

I came back 5 hours later and it was done.
Sienna ran very smooth, no shocks on start or stop. Very good job. I paid $500 ($160 for parts, $360 for labor).

Avoid those crooks over at Power Toyota Irvine.