I travel alot, and like to look at reviews before making any local decision. I picked Pals because they have alot of good reviews and have a slightly higher star rating than other mechanics in the area. My AC blower went out, and in July Florida summer heat, it was impossible for me to continue on my trip for business. Over the phone Chuck was polite and friendly, and as informative as one can be over the phone without looking at the issue. I didn't have an appointment (my problem was a same day kinda emergency) and they were MORE than accommodating because of my last minute need. They did a diagnosis, and notified me of the issue. I was expected to be back to work relatively soon in a different state, and I had to keep my employer updated as to what's going on for my delay. I have a CDL and the company I drive for has a Diesiel Master Mechanic. He was filling in for my immediate manager since he was on vacation. I sent him the invoice (just like you would do for a doctor's note) and he asked me to grab the ac motor and bring it to him so he could "inspect it". He thought it was weird that Pals said it was the resister, and then charged also for a new blower(he knew this from the invoice I forwarded to him). Anyways, I contacted the Toyota Dealership that originally bought my car from and asked a Toyota certified mechanic if you have to replace the blower if you replace the resister, and they confirmed that the blower itself is what ruins the resister, and not the other way around. Pals had it right all along. People often think they know better (even other mechanics) and it's important in reviews for mechanics to applaud them for that. I do think the price was a bit high, but they are part of a national warranty network, and I believe that caused the cost of the repair to be a little over what "the national average" for my make and model was. High end for this repair should have been $550, I paid $670. If that coverage is important to you, by all means that's an acceptable premium. For me, I look at my particular repaid (ac blower) has a lifespan of 10-20 Years, so 36 month guarantee is moot unless they replaced it with a POS, but I don't believe they'd do that. They were up front and honest as to what needed repair, and were more knowledgeable about this situation that the master mechanic at the company I work. I appreciate them taking good care of me as quickly as they did!
Hello Jason! It means so much to us to read such a detailed, thoughtful review of your experience. We're glad that Chuck could provide the friendly and informative service you needed, and that our diagnosis proved accurate. We understand concerns about cost, but we believe in providing comprehensive service with long-term value. Thanks for recognizing that, and for putting your trust in us. We're always here if you need us again!
- PALS Ocala Auto Repair