Blue Springs Auto Repair

We’re sorry to hear that you’re still experiencing the squeaking and creaking noise. However, we would like to clarify a few details regarding your visit. As documented on your original invoice, our technician was unable to duplicate the squeaking or creaking noise you initially described during the test drive. We also inspected the suspension for loose components and did not identify any concerns at that time. What we did identify was a separate, significant issue with your power steering system. The pump was making a very loud growling noise, the fluid was low and foamy, and there was evidence of leaks allowing air into the system. These findings were documented and addressed through the repairs you authorized. At no point in our written diagnostic findings did we state that the power steering repairs were guaranteed to resolve the original squeaking or creaking complaint, particularly since we were unable to duplicate that noise. We understand your frustration with still experiencing a noise after spending money on repairs. However, the power steering concerns we identified were legitimate issues that required attention, regardless of whether they were related to your original complaint. We would be happy to reinspect the vehicle and attempt to duplicate the remaining noise so we can help determine its source.

We take an accusation that we were “predatory” toward a 16-year-old customer very seriously, and we strongly disagree with that characterization. The customer came to us without an appointment believing the vehicle needed an A/C recharge. We offered to work the vehicle into our already scheduled work so we could help her. When we checked the vehicle, the A/C system was completely empty at 0 PSI. Because the system was empty, it had to be serviced with refrigerant before we could properly operate and evaluate the A/C system, verify compressor and system operation, determine whether it would produce cold air with the proper charge, and continue checking for the source of the refrigerant loss. We charged the system to its specified capacity, added UV dye, ran the vehicle, verified that the A/C was operating and blowing cold, and checked for leaks. Unfortunately, no leak was detectable at that time. Three days later, when we were contacted because the A/C had stopped cooling, we immediately offered to recheck the vehicle. We performed that inspection at no additional charge and were then able to identify a leaking evaporator core. The approximately $2,000 estimate was not for a “new” or unrelated problem. The leaking evaporator core was the source of the refrigerant loss and the reason the A/C would not remain charged. It is also important to clarify that the original A/C service was not an unnecessary expense simply because a leak was ultimately found. With a completely empty system, the A/C had to be serviced in order for us to properly operate and evaluate it. Our normal A/C diagnostic service includes the A/C service as needed along with additional diagnostic time. In this situation, we only charged for the A/C service performed. We absolutely understand the frustration of having the A/C stop cooling again and then learning that an older vehicle needs a costly evaporator repair. However, we do not agree that this means the customer was taken advantage of. The service she paid for was performed, the vehicle was checked for leaks, and when the problem returned we reinspected it at no charge and identified the underlying failure. We care very much about how our customers are treated, regardless of their age, and would never intentionally take advantage of a young or inexperienced customer. We believe the documented circumstances of this visit are important context for anyone reading this review.