Quantcast
Jump to content


Drinkin' Drivin' and Grandpa --- Rude DUI customer


Gonzo

Recommended Posts

Drivin’- Drinkin’ and Grandpa

 

 

One of many slow days at the shop I had a small job come in from one of the local tire shops. This rather young girl brought the car to me from the tire shops just a few blocks away. She told me she was the owner and that the tire shop was rude and wouldn’t help her. I told her I’ve never knew them to be that way, but I occasional get like that depending on the reaction at the front desk. (Trying to lighten up the tension at the counter). She wasn’t much for my kind of humor, so I called the tire shop to find out what the deal was.

 

Her problem was that it would occasionally not start, nothing new, just another typical job. The tire shop didn’t want to get involved with this because it had a breath analyzer attached to the starting system. For anyone out there that hasn’t a clue what this is…, I’ll explain… drinking and driving should NEVER EVER mix, get caught, you’re probably going to have to blow into this ridicules thing to start your car. My opinion, if you get behind the wheel in a condition that would require having to blowing into a plastic tube to start your car, you are without a doubt the most STUPID, inconsiderate person of all times.

 

 

 

Don’t drink and drive!

 

 

 

Personally, I would rather see the driver’s license revoked and give ya a bus ticket instead. (Mandatory taxi/bus or signed sealed delivered notice that has to be approved by the court system from another driver any time you get into a car. Make ya prove you’re not the person behind the wheel.)

 

Beyond that, I need to find out why this car won’t start. First thing I did was disconnect the breath machine to verify if the problem was “factory” or the analyzer. Once the unit is disconnected from the car I have to call the 800 number on the device to let them know that it is an authorized disconnect and not the driver trying to bypass the system. It’s quite an ordeal to go thru… not the physical disconnect of the unit… that’s easy…but, the information you have to know to prove that you are actually a repair shop when it comes to properly disconnecting the unit. With that over with, I can get back to diagnosing the problem at hand. It turned out to be a bad starter motor. I called the parts warehouse and got prices on a replacement starter for the owner. Later that day the owner called back and said they had just put a starter on so I must be mistaken. …..yea, they did, but it was one of those “discount” brands…..the type that offer a life time warranty…..life time warranty, right a lifetime of changing it. (Note: cheap parts = cheap results)

 

Instead of getting a name brand part they wanted to replace the starter with another “cheap” brand. Ah yes, the cheapo repair part syndrome, repairing your car with your wallet not with wrenches...

 

She came for the old starter and sometime later showed up with the replacement starter. I informed the owner that since you have decided on the quality of the part but the quality of my diagnostics hasn’t changed, however if it fails to start for any reason beyond the bolts falling out of the starter do to the fact that I forgot to tighten them up… it’s an all new diagnostic charge to rework the test… which I have no doubt it will end up back to this cheap starter. It’s your choice, just warning you that I can’t trust these cheap parts to perform like good quality parts… “You get what you pay for,” I told her.

 

It went in one ear and out the other. She answer me, “Ok, can ya have it done today?” Whatever, fine, I’ll put it on…. To my surprise……it worked. The next thing was to rewire the breath machine back into the system. No problems there, everything is in working order.

 

Enough said about the repair….the next thing was….. Close out the ticket in the front office. That’s when old Grandpa showed up with one hell of a chip on his shoulder. (I think old Grandpa threw back a few before he showed up too.)

 

“You’re charges are higher than the tire shop,” he said angrily, “I don’t think I should have to pay that much for it if the other shop could have done it for less.”

 

I informed him that my prices were discussed before the job was even done and the price was OK’d before we even started. Besides, the tire shop may have a lower labor cost but, they also said they didn’t have the necessary skills to actually make the proper diagnosis and or the repair.

 

He rambled on about how he had fixed cars when he was younger and knew a lot about them He would have fixed it himself if he knew what was wrong with it. Aha! The old “if I knew what was wrong with it” scheme. Now we are on to something. So it’s not so much…what I did or how I did it…. It was “knowing” how and what I did .

 

Seems I’m not doing my job right, maybe I should just start guessing at the repairs…. Maybe then I could lower the cost of the repairs then I could be like the tire shop…. Or maybe I should just throw a dart at a bulletin board full of pictures of parts and where ever it hits that’s the part I change… or better yet, I’ll send it to someone else who knows how fix it. Oh, wait a minute ….that’s how I ended up with it. Oh that’s right…..I’m the guy who is supposed to be the guy that supposed to fix it for the guy. Guess that’s why I get paid the big bucks.

 

Sorry Grandpa, maybe I’m doing you a big favor… you spend a few bucks with me, that way you’ll be a few bucks shy of that next 6 pack. That might keep you or your tube blowin’ granddaughter from getting behind the wheel drunk and I might actually be preventing a future fatal accident. So do me a favor…. Save some of that hot air for the breath machine Mr., you’ll need it to start the car….


View full article

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

An appropriate article for this up coming holiday

 

If you follow my column in the trade magazines you've probably seen this story already in it's edited version for publication. The phone calls and emails after this story was published was unbelievable.

Some mechanics defending the drunk driver of the world or showed sympathy for the people in this story who obviously had a problem with alcohol.

 

I'd like to hear some feed back from you guys and gals as well.

 

Just for the record... I like a cold beer, a glass of red wine (merlot) and I probably over indulge more than I care to admit.... BUT... not behind the wheel. That's just plain stupid. AND, for all those calls that I got defending the drunks of the road... sober up! !

 

(just a bit pissed... sorry)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Well, Christmas must be over, and back to reality. It was real nice reading the past few holiday articles...but that's life.

 

It is truly amazing how disrespectful some people are and how ill-informed they are about what we do. I agree with your reaction and had a similar situation.

 

We had a women come in a few months ago that needed a annual NY state inspection. She said we had to keep the car running for two reasons, she had a breath analyzer (probably a relative to your grandpa) and it needed a battery. We tried to explain to her that we might be able to keep the car running but it might fail the OBD II check if the monitors are cleared. And if it did, she would still owe us the $21.00 for the state inspection. She said she understood....

 

Well, it failed....no monitors set and the fight began. She did not want to pay us for the inspection because it failed, and we could not give her a new inspection certificate. She was also out of date and now driving illegally. Back and forth we went, until I threatened her that I would drive the car to the street curb and shut the car off. She threaten to call the Police. I laughed and handed her my phone! She finally paid the 21 bucks and stormed out.

 

Hey Gonzo, are all these crazies related to each other?

Related? Must be. They breed like weeds in a corn field.

You know, I've been called expensive, a chump, arsehole, jackass, uncaring, etc... the works. But one thing they have never said was that I didn't know what I was doing. I don't feel it's my job to put up with rude, stupid, and obnoxious people just so I can fix their car. For 30 years I've listened to this BS... and quite frankly... it hasn't changed from day one.

 

Just the other day I got into it with a gal over HID headlamps. Trying to save her some cash since it was just before Christmas I told her how expensive repairing these can be. "Some of these can run over a thousand dollars," I said. I also told her when I tell people that most of them walk out of here in a huff ... never to be seen again. Well, she walked out and several minutes later the boyfriend came through the door. He starts right off with "So it's going to cost a thousand dollars?" (in a threating tone mind you) I stood there and laughed... why??? Because I know the scenario... you know... boy friend/girl friend routine... wrote about that before. SO to me... it was funny... to him, he was pissed. And, of course he stormed out the door just like they all do threating me with the cops, BBB, and the like. In a way, after writing these stories for all these years I sort of already have an idea how it's going to turn out. I guess that's why I can laugh at all these situations anymore.

 

So the next time a lady comes in and tells you to inspect the car without shutting it off I'll bet you'll think of the last one that tried that. Predictable...yes....annoying...yes...laughable...absolutely. :) :) :) :)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

you know those that have to have breath analyzer's in their vehicles are going to be problems one way or another. Perhaps it would be best just to tell the customer I don't sevice those types of cars and on with the next job. Not your normal way of doing business, but then again like you said they are "STUPID, inconsiderate person of all times".

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
  • Similar Topics

    • By carmcapriotto
      Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, our panel discusses strategies for increasing gross profit, team harmony, and the significance of training the next generation of automotive professionals. By understanding and managing gross profit, embracing expert guidance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, shop owners can navigate the challenges of the industry and achieve long-term success. Murray Voth, RPM Training. Listen to Murray’s previous episodes HERE. [email protected] David Coelho, Village Auto Care, London, ON Nick Schonenberger, Kaufman’s Garage, Kitchener, ON Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ Murray Voth's Coaching Impact (00:02:57) Nick discusses how Murray's coaching and app changed his approach to gross profit. Building Profit into Gross Profit (00:03:06) The importance of integrating net profit into gross profit for better financial management is emphasized. Understanding Gross Profit (00:05:33) Nick reflects on the realization that gross profit is essential for covering all business expenses. The Role of Mastermind Groups (00:07:29) Discussion on how belonging to mastermind groups can open shop owners' eyes to new possibilities. The Journey from Shop Owner to Business Owner (00:09:36) The fear and misconceptions that prevent shop owners from embracing their roles. Efficiency in a Two-Bay Shop (00:11:08) David shares how he improved efficiency and processes in his shop after facing challenges. The Harmony of Teamwork (00:14:20) The importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving high productivity is highlighted. Training and Developing Technicians (00:15:20) David explains how his team trains together, ensuring consistent processes and high performance. Balancing Growth and Team Well-being (00:16:06) The discussion concludes with thoughts on managing growth without overwhelming the existing team. Introduction and Improvement Ideas (00:16:16) Discussion on the need for better communication and vision in shop management. Reflecting on 2023 and Future Changes (00:18:01) Encouragement for shop owners to assess last year’s performance and consider necessary changes. Training and Team Development (00:19:05) Introducing impactful training methods accessible to all team members for continuous improvement. Understanding Gross Profit Metrics (00:22:10) Clarifying the difference between markup and gross margin in shop pricing strategies. Teaching and Inspiring Future Technicians (00:26:57) David discusses his role as an educator and the importance of attracting young talent to the trade. Building a Professional Image in the Industry (00:29:00) Emphasizing the need for a positive image of the automotive trade to attract new entrants. Flexibility in Shop Management (00:30:40) David reflects on the flexibility he has as a shop owner to balance teaching and managing effectively. Service Training Insights (00:33:24) Discussion on the importance of service training and the impact on student confidence in customer relationships.
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections                       Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, Emily Chung shares her recent trip to China with her 2 sons and father, discussing cultural experiences, manufacturing insights, and consumer differences. Highlights include the impact of tariffs on the automotive aftermarket and the importance of global collaboration, particularly in the context of electric vehicles and semiconductor production. Emily emphasizes the need for understanding and adapting to global market dynamics. Emily Chung, Autoniche, Markham, ON. Emily’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ Trip to China (00:01:10) Emily shares insights about her recent trip to China with her sons and father. Visit to Rotor Plant (00:02:04) Emily talks about visiting her father's rotor plant and the manufacturing process observed. OEM vs. Aftermarket (00:04:20) Emily explains the difference between original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers. Perceptions of China (00:05:34) Emily emphasizes the importance of experiencing China firsthand to understand its reality. China's Retirement Population (00:06:28) Emily highlights the large retirement population in China, comparable to the entire U.S. population. Cultural Observations (00:09:05) Emily reflects on the historical context of China and its political landscape compared to North America. Quality of Products Made in China (00:10:00) Emily addresses misconceptions about the quality of products manufactured in China. Use of Robots in Hotels (00:10:38) Emily shares her observations of robots used for food delivery and cleaning in hotels. Fast Food in China (00:13:35) Emily describes the differences in fast food offerings, including Tim Hortons and Starbucks. Unique Starbucks Offerings (00:14:43) Emily talks about a unique Starbucks drink found in Beijing that is not available in North America. Five Guys Experience (00:15:57) Emily shares her surprising experience dining at Five Guys in Shanghai. Cultural Insights on Food Delivery (00:16:15) Emily shares her experience with unique food delivery practices in China, including ordering from different restaurants while dining out. Children's Learning Experience (00:23:30) Emily reflects on the lessons her children learned about cultural differences and social norms during their trip. Wage Disparity Discussion (00:25:11) Emily explains the context of wage disparities in Chinese manufacturing, highlighting living conditions and compensation packages. Traffic and City Structure in Beijing (00:27:17) Emily describes the chaotic traffic and city layout in Beijing, emphasizing the scale of urbanization in China. Safety and Monitoring in China (00:29:14) Emily discusses the low crime rates in China and the impact of surveillance on public safety perceptions. Electric Vehicle Market Insights (00:30:17) Emily shares observations on the diverse electric vehicle market in China, including traditional and tech company manufacturers. Global Trade and Economic Perspectives (00:31:42) Emily emphasizes the importance of global trade and economic understanding, discussing recent trends and concerns in policy. Tariffs and Their Impact on Prices (00:32:37) Discussion on how tariffs have doubled the prices of automotive parts, affecting the aftermarket industry. Engaging with China for Better Products (00:34:23) Exploration of the need to collaborate with China for advanced automotive technology and products. Electrification and Economic Concerns (00:34:55) Discussion on how shutting out China could increase costs for consumers amid a push for electrification. Teaching the Next Generation (00:36:47) Emily shares her experience teaching students about the automotive aftermarket and its complexities. Understanding Aftermarket Parts (00:37:01) Explaining the difference between OEM parts and aftermarket parts to students in automotive business classes.
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections             Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By nptrb

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.

    • By Changing The Industry
      Episode 184 - Managing Workflow & Scheduling in High-Volume Shops With Dan Vasquez & Jacob Wierengo
    • Fast Free Shipping on All Orders Over $50
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, discover how simply attending meetings can significantly improve net profit, the impact of cost management, and tips on leveraging technology for business efficiency. Murray Voth, RPM Training. Listen to Murray’s previous episodes HERE. [email protected] Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ Importance of Attendance (00:02:04) Discussion on how missing educational events can lead to lost opportunities and profits. Value of Showing Up (00:03:05) Murray emphasizes the connection between attendance and improved business performance. Networking and Community (00:04:39) The significance of in-person meetings for building relationships and sharing knowledge. Learning from Group Sessions (00:05:23) Murray shares insights on the benefits of participating in group coaching sessions. Addressing Intimidation in Coaching (00:07:50) Discussion on how some individuals feel intimidated and hesitant to participate in coaching. The Need for Continuous Learning (00:10:59) Carm stresses the importance of seeking expert guidance and accountability in business. Coaching Styles and Techniques (00:11:53) Murray contrasts different coaching approaches and their effectiveness in the industry. Utilizing Technology for Coaching (00:13:28) Murray discusses the transition to online coaching and the importance of Google Business Profile. Engagement in Virtual Meetings (00:14:17) The effectiveness of screen sharing and virtual meetings in enhancing learning experiences. Introduction to Collaboration Tools (00:15:54) Discussion on using screen sharing and collaboration tools for knowledge sharing among automotive shop owners. Resources for Business Improvement (00:18:58) Introduction to automotive management network resources such as SOPs and checklists for business advancement. Note-Taking and Organization (00:20:00) Personal experiences with note-taking and strategies for managing notes effectively in a business context. Using Google Docs for Accountability (00:23:22) How Google Docs can facilitate accountability by allowing team members to log and review action plans collaboratively. Networking and Community Support (00:27:02) Encouragement for members to utilize networking tools like Slack for better communication and support among peers. Understanding Employment Law (00:30:33) Insights into Canadian employment law regarding severance and the importance of having employment contracts to protect business owners. Understanding Severance Costs (00:32:12) Discussion on the financial impact of severance costs and the importance of understanding net income. Calculating Impact on Sales (00:33:13) Exploration of how to calculate necessary sales to cover losses in the automotive industry. Networking and Sharing Solutions (00:34:11) Importance of sharing experiences and solutions among peers in overcoming business challenges. Expense Management Insights (00:35:09) Discussion on the need for better focus on expense management in business operations. Insurance and Expense Comparisons (00:36:02) Sharing strategies for managing insurance and other recurring expenses effectively. Planning Expense Discussions (00:37:35) Proposal to plan discussions on key expenses in future meetings for better financial management. Setting Budgets and KPIs (00:38:27) Discussion on the importance of setting budgets and KPIs for various business expenses. Normalizing Income Statements (00:39:18) Explanation of how to clean up income statements for accurate financial analysis.
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections             Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...