I have been a mechanic for almost 40 years. I always perform all work on my vehicles. My Silverado was due for a smog inspection and I am not able to do that myself. I have sent Mike Larbre many customers over the years and decided to let them do the smog inspection since I have not heard any complaints. I always try and shop Sonoma first if possible. I made the appointment and dropped the truck off. The smog inspection was done on time as promised. At some time during the work the drivers's side of the truck was damaged ($1600.00 worth). They called and informed me of the damage and where to take it to get it repaired. The body shop was very helpful and took the truck for about 4 days to make repairs. While the body shop was detailing the truck before returning it back to me, they damaged the truck in the exact same spot. Now the truck is tied up for another week. So for a 60 dollar smog inspection (no freebee on this one) I was out of my truck for almost two weeks. No loaner car and not even an apology from the moron at the desk. Just a "shit happens" attitude. This was truly a one in a million situation and I understand that things do happen. It is how the situation is handled that separates the pro's from the wanna-be's. When you are in business and you cause damage it is your responsibility is to make it right. I can assure you that my time is at least as valuable as theirs.
Dennis, Very sorry and we felt terrible about this accident as it is something that has rarely happened over all the years I have been in business. The only thing at that point we could do to make it right and as hassle free on you was to handle shuttling it back and forth to the body shop and obviously cover the cost. When i followed up with the body shop and heard you brought it up there i should have called you to make sure everything was ok because I did not want you to be inconvenienced with anything. Which at that point i would have found out you could have used a loaner and that you were not impressed with our attitude. Attitude reflects leadership and i think had i not been so upset at the staff about the accident Frank would have done a better job discussing it with you. This is not the experience we want for any of our clients and i apologize. Very truly yours, Mike Larbre
- Mike Larbre Automotive