I have a 2012 Ford Focus, with 200,000kms.
Had a malfunctioning Driver's side Headlamp.
My (usual) Mechanic diagnosed a faulty computer - Quoted me $1200 in parts, labour and programming to repair/replace.
I obviously declined, due to my my car's age - He charged me 2 hours of labour (about $260).
I took it into for a second option, mechanic cleared all codes. Took 4 minutes. Fixed the problem. Didn't even charge me for it. Hasn't re-surfaced yet.
I feel like the $260 was a complete utter waste/misdiagnosis.
If I go back to my mechanic, will I have a case for getting all/part of my money back (or even as a credit on a future repair) ?
If so, any tips on how to approach this?
Thanks!
Well, you can't get your money back because the mechanic was technically doing his job trying to diagnose the issue for you. Sure, the mechanic didn't do a good job figuring out the problem, but that doesn't really mean anything. He charged you $260 for figuring out a diagnosis, which he technically did, but was probably the wrong diagnosis. Anyways, at least you didn't spend $1200 on a new computer. Lesson learned...don't go to that mechanic again. Unfortunately, this is how the mechanic business is now.
A malfunctioning headlamp requires a computer replacement? That's not even a joke, that's an insult to your intelligence.
You deserve your money back. Approach it calmly, politely, but persistently. Point out to your usual mechanic that you have been a loyal customer, and you understand he made a mistake. Get as much as you can in writing.
Did you pay by credit card? Your credit card company has leverage over the mechanic.
If he stonewalls you, contact your local newspaper/TV station. He could become the laughing stock of mechanics in your area.
