1 /5 Shirley McLean: I have not hired a vehicle mechanic for over 40 years because of the many bad experiences with mechanics that I have had with repair garages in the past, and instead, chose to learn, and perform my own repairs concerning my vehicles, my computers, and my major appliances - However, after being released from the hospital in March 2022, I struggled with exhaustion, physical weakness, and was told by the doctor that recovery would be slow, and I was certainly too weak to lift much, or use tools, so I reluctantly chose to phone a vehicle repair garage - When I called for service, I explained that my vehicle would not start on the very same day I was hospitalized, and that I suspected the starter was defective, but could not be 100% certain - I also mentioned I replaced the starter myself 15 years ago, although I am too weak at this time do the same - After the garage called to say my vehicle did need a starter, and was repaired, the starter seemed to function for a few months, but later, began to make a loud horrendous noise, actually startling people walking by when I turned the engine over - It wasnt very long before the starter failed completely - Still physically weak, in pain, but gaining some endurance, I decided to investigate the starter situation - When I pulled the starter out, it appeared old, tarnished, and the motor casing was pitted - Being a supposed new starter as claimed by the garage, the starter should have appeared new in contrast - However, the throw-out bearing/gear inside the starter was extremely worn causing the small starter gear to be thrown out at an angle, in turn, slamming against the larger gear on the engine rather than synchronizing - The so-called new starter which I was charged for, looked just like the same starter I replaced in 2007, only much older - I suspect the solenoid alone was manipulated, or replaced rather than an entire new starter installed as I was informed was done, and as was also stated on the repair bill - I will never, never, never, ever use the service of this repair garage again, or any vehicle repair service assuming I can avoid it.
