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Review 2/9/2011
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Planet Engines owner Sami Fakhoury must be accountable for the shoddy work, unreliable warranty, and up-selling they practice. As a single woman I guess I was bait from the start.
I found them through Green sheet and called a got a quote for $1295 for a rebuilt engine on a 1995 Dodge Avenger. The car had been sitting for 9 mos. Surprised at such a low estimate, I inquired of an estimate for a 72 Cougar XL7 I have. Same quote. I had them pick both vehicles up knowing that I had 3000 to spend I thought this work be ideal instead of buying a new car. This would allow me to provide transportation for my teenage son as well. They told me that both cars would be completed within two days. Two days later I called and they had not begun the work yet. They then informed me that the Avengers quote of $1295 is now changed to 2800! In addition to the engine, I would need a water pump (it is outside the engine on this model) plug wire set, crank sensor, air filter, pcv valve,thermostat, radiator, tb idlers, radiator hoses and lifters. The Cougar on the other hand had an engine that was not repairable at all but they had one they could sell me for $1700 not including install. Overwhelmed, I called a male friend to accompany me to the shop. After talking to the manager we came to the conclusion that I would pay $400 for the cougar take down and towing and have it removed from the shop in two days. I also authorized the avengers repair. Everything they recommended. $2700. I gave them $1000 to begin the work. Picked up the cougar to find that the entire engine was in the trunk and all of the nuts and bolts were n a box on the front seat. When I went to pick up the Avenger 8 days later, It wouldn't start. They finally got it started after giving it a jump. Once I got in the car, the check engine light was on! I asked the manager what was wrong and he said he does not know because they did not have the diagnostic tool to check. But it definitely was not the engine. He told me to use premium gas and add Lucas treatment to the gas. Immediately becoming suspect. I did not add the Lucas for fear that the were advising me incorrectly. The check engine light remained on. Took the car back 2 days later. They claimed that there was nothing wrong with the engine but I should take it to another mechanic who has the OBD1 diagnostic adapter. And if it should read that the light is on due to any engine related issue they would repair it. ???? The car stalls repeatedly and the smell of burning oil saturated the inside of the car. I go to the 2nd shop. The diagnostic showed a map sensor and air intake sensor. I get those done at another shop. $319. When the car was on lifters the mechanic showed me where fluid was leaking from the freeze plug and water pump. He advised me to take it back to planet. I did. They kept the car a few days and told me that they replaced the freeze plug and the radiator needed a cap. (?) I thought when u buy a radiator you get a cap. They say otherwise. Engine light still on. They tell me to take it back to other shop. I try to drive the car with all the stalling and burning smell just to transport kids to school within a 4 mile radius but just couldn't bear it any longer. I take it back to Planet to get oil change @900 miles. They kept the car for three days. For an oil change! Picked it up and parked it. Oil is leaking in my driveway. Im done!Time to involve the authorities.
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