Ideal Radiator Services

Owner is very friendly and performs quality work.
Feb 29th, 2016

Yesterday I made the mistake of taking my car into this run down shop. Before I dropped my car off I called asking for an estimate of what it might cost to fix my cracked radiator. Rather than giving me a verbal quote or any information I was told to bring the car in to have it looked at first. I explained I would rather have it towed due to the condition of radiator but the old man in charge told me to just fill it up with water and keep the cap loose and drive it in. I went ahead and did that and received a call a while later from him telling me yes I needed a new radiator, also that he wanted to replace the thermostat and some other stuff. I said just the radiator would be fine and when he called back after 'fixing' it my total was $640 and also that now my car would not start. Huh? I said, won't start? He said now I must have an engine problem. Um ok? I didn't seem to have an engine problem before getting there. I was able to start it and drive home while it proceeded to barely run the whole way home. Just today I went out to drive it and made it about 2 blocks before it completely died and would not start back up. I look under the hood and one of the hoses to the radiator is not even connected and it's shooting out antifreeze everywhere. I call them back and tell them the situation. The guy starts arguing with me and tells me 'I'm one of those guys that thinks he knows it all and doesn't have a clue.' I ask him why he would let me drive off in a car he knows is about to break down? And also why he would let me spend $600 on it knowing that there was a significant problem? He says he tried to warn me but no he didn't. He was more concerned about the payment. If you are reading this DO NOT GO HERE. Do not make the same mistake I did. These guys do poor work and their customer service is even worse. They are simply guys looking to make a buck and look for more problems with your car than even exist. He told me when I arrived yeah looks like your thermostat is actually alright.. Ok then why did you initially ask me if I wanted you to replace it? This was the worst experience I've ever had with an otherwise old running car. I made the mistake of going to this place and now I am out $600+. Be advised!! Small claims on the way. Would rate 0 stars if possible.
Nov 9th, 2011