Express Oil recently did an unneeded "repair" on my Mazda Tribute for >$125. after performing a oil change (I guess they can do that simple task properly at least) - they noticed a grinding noise from my engine. The mechanic checked the belt and various pulleys, suggesting a idler pulley and/or the alternator was going bad (bearing failing). I asked at the time if the belt tensior might also be failing or the source of the problem and they did not think so. They tell me they have the idler pulley in stock and repairs would be done same day, probably less than 2 hours. I drive to local auto parts store and have alternator and battery tested, both check out fine. I ask for Express Oil to only change the idler pulley, they agree but continiue to push me to replace the alternator. 4 days later I FINALLY get my car back. Idler pulley replace but grinding noiss even WORSE now. The mechanic suggests, again, the alternator is the problem.
10 miles down the road I'm stranded with the original problem still unresolved and belt ripped off, The mechanic tells me emphatically the alternator needs replacing. Not tristing them at this point, I pay $120 towing fee and have it serviced at Mazda dealership and a CORRECT repair done at a local Mazda Dealership - a repair and part identified that Express Oil's mechanic never even suggested could be the source of my problem (belt tensioner fail), and NOW my car is fixed, no thanks to Express Oil. They cost me 4 days in their shop, $125 in unncessary "repairs", a $120 towing fee, and WOULD have cost me another unncessary $300 had I gone with their mechanics adavice and now wont even return my calls requesting a discussion with their owner.