Quick response

Sure, I see the difference between a full diagnosis and running the tool. I still think that if they get say $300 to fix the problem, it is unnecessary to charge me a $100 to find the problem they have me pay to fix though

The guy at Firestone actually brought up the point about “Well to reset the light, we still have to do the $99 diagnostic” early on in the conversation.

I guess I’m a bit frustrated about how expensive it is to own a car – wish I lived so that I could ride a bike instead, haha.

I don’t really understand why the diagnostic/reset fee can’t be waived if the customer does necessary tune-up/repair at the facility. I do understand that they want money for a full diagnostic check if the customer decides to fix it somewhere else though.

My name is Victor and I am a Master Certified BMW Level 1 Technician in the Houston area. I was reading all of your comments and would like to take this opportunity to ask all of you a question so that I can better serve my customers in the subject of diagnosing CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS. I have worked on many different makes and models, I have over 1600 hrs of class room training in general mechanics and diagnosis also over 1200 hrs in BMW specialized training, so I am very confident with my diagnosing skills.

I noticed that most if not all of your concerns had to do with getting ripped off or having to buy unnecessary parts. I recently purchased a diagnosing scan tool from Matco Tools to help me diagnose non European vehicles such as (GM, Ford, Chrysler ect.) The scan tool that I purchased is Professional scan tool that cost no where near the $60 or $100 dollar scanners for the consumers which I believe are worth every penny.

As a professional technician I believe that charging a fee for diagnosing a vehicle is fair and I also believe in fixing it right the first time. How would you feel as a consumer if I as a professional charged you a neutral fee such as lets say $80.00 for diagnosing a check engine light but instead of your regular diagnosis, what if I would Guarantee my diagnosis.

For example, Lets say you come in with a vehicle that has a check engine light, I diagnose it and determine that your electric throttle body is at fault. You decide that you could change the throttle body yourself and save some money on labor cost. I could tell you with certainty that the throttle body is to blame. The guarantee would be if you purchase and install a throttle body and it does not fix your problem I will purchase back the part from you at your full cost. Would that give you the consumer more confidence and would you feel better about spending the $80.00 for the diagnosing.

Thank you, for your time any input would be greatly appreciated..