Merchant's Tire

Stay Away - They Will Rip You Off!

Posted by joealso on 9/28/2009

I managed auto repair shops similar to Pep Boys for years, so I feel I am qualified to pass this harsh judgment on Merchants. My teenaged son had neglected to have his car inspected on time, so I was happy to learn that Merchants had inspectors working on Saturday. I dropped off the vehicle and was shocked when I returned to find a rejection sticker and a bill for almost $100. First, the vehicle was rejected because my son had also neglected to renew his registration (one week overdue). The law requiring that the vehicle fail inspection for this reason had changed long ago, but Merchants seemed unaware of this. Second, I had given them permission to change a small marker bulb that had burned out - the same kind of bulb that you can buy at any store for $2 and change in 2 minutes. I was charged over $25 to change this bulb. I was appalled. When I questioned the manager if I was correct that this bulb was very inexpensive and easy to replace, he smugly replied "Uh huh". When I dropped off the vehicle, I asked that they make sure to take a look at the fanbelt as I had heard it squeaking on the drive over. I was shocked to learn that I was charged $40 to take a look at the belt and that it seemed fine. That could not have taken more than 20 seconds. The manager was one of the most arrogant human beings I have ever encountered in my life. He obviously delighted in ripping me off and I am sure that his commission bonus was very good that day. This place is a ripoff. If you want a good honest shop with reasonable and ethical pricing, go to Leete Auto on 2nd Street downtown. That's where I normally take my vehicles and I will not make the mistake of going elsewhere again. Joe