The Pep Boys

We had been using Pep Boys at 4987 West Lane, Stockton for a few years. Each time it was clear you needed to keep an eye on them. There always seemed to be something we needed to have them resolve before leaving. Knowing a little about cars seemed to keep them honest. We kept using them because they were cost affective, and convenient to my work. I could drop one of our cars off, and pick it up the same day.

I took our Dodge pickup in for service on July 8th. This was for a simple transmission service (flush and filters), oil change, and tire rotation. I was called early afternoon stating the truck was ready. When I arrived, I resolved the invoice ($183.19). That priced seemed fair for the above work.

When I started the truck the check engine was on. I returned to the office and spoke with Jerry Cash (Service Manager) who had checked in my truck that morning. I stated the check engine light was on. Mr. Cash stated the light was on when they started the work. I stated the light was not on when I dropped off the vehicle. Mr. Cash said that *I* had told him it was on. I then stated that was not true, and they needed to resolve the problem.

Mr. Cash had one of his mechanic's turn the light off. Something to do with "resetting" the system. He then stated he felt the light would come back on in a day or two. He also stated that when it did to bring it back, and they would figure out the problem (at a cost). I then drove the truck home with no problems that Friday.

That night I started reviewing all the paperwork I received from Pep Boys. In review of the Customer Service Request form (filled out when the vehicle was dropped off), I located something interesting. In the safety and maintenance questions section of the form, I located a box stating there were NO warning lights being displayed when I dropped the vehicle off.

On Monday I drove the truck to work. Halfway to work the check engine light came on again. That day the truck would not start twice. At this point the dealer was the best place to have the problem resolved. I made arrangements that week to have the truck towed to the dealer. To make a long story short, $598.30 (plus rental) later, I had my truck back from the dealer.

The dealer was unable to prove Pep Boys caused the problem. Personally, I do not believe in coincidence. Pep Boys own paperwork proves the check engine light was not on when they took control of my vehicle. The check engine light was on when I get it back. This coincidence cost $707. 06 with rental car.

Anyone in need of vehicle repair may want to consider this experience when selecting your next service.