Questions and Answers

Pontiac Grand Prix Bait And Switch Q. Vince, I have a 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GT with just under 70,000 miles, and I wanted to get your opinion on a few things, since I think my mechanic is trying to bait-and-switch me. I brought to car in for a problem with the ignition (the ignition wouldn't turn back, to the point where it would release the key), which was originally estimated at $79.00.

Two days later (brought it in on Saturday, it's now Monday), they call to say that, while they "haven't gotten to the bottom" of the ignition problem (which I find hard to believe), they found two other problems which need to be fixed. Additionally, they need "more diagnosis time" on the ignition problem. I told them not to fix the other problems, but that they had a $200.00 cap on the ignition issue.

The two additional problems were that my transmission fluid was "very dirty" ($150.00) and that my transmission gaskets were leaky ($750.00). I'm not even sure why they were checking my transmission for a problem with the ignition, or whether I should have to pay for diagnostic time on the transmission when I didn't ask for service on it.

I know a little bit about cars, but not much, so any info you could provide would help me a lot.

Thanks!

A. You did good by telling them no! Just have them fix the initial problem you brought it in for first. When you go to pick it up, have them show you the old parts that were replaced. If you are satisfied with their answers and remarks, see if they will show you the leaking seals. If the hesitate to do so run very fast and don't go back!