I'll try to keep this as short as possible so you may understand my experience at this facility.
Previously my career was in the automotive trade. I was certified under the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence in multiple categories in the Automobile & Light Truck Certification. Change of career now but this was added for context to show that I have insight into automotive repair.
I brought the vehicle in for diagnosis of left rear wheel area squeaking, most noticeable in reverse. I had jacked the car up and rotated the wheel forward and backwards but without torque (in reverse) the noise was not there. If I would "coast" the car backwards, the noise was there but not as noticeable as when it is in reverse.
This is something more than I can look into at home so the vehicle needed to go to the repair facility. I felt that I explained the situation in enough detail to help in finding the cause of the noise.
I received a phone call from Fifth Gear and was advised that there was some metal particles stuck/impregnated(?) into the rear brake pads and that a brake job is needed (along with other repairs that are recommended - more on that later).
Skeptical of this but thinking that there is a possibility that this could be the cause, I authorized the repair. But - the rear brakes were replaced two years ago by Fifth Gear but at the Lewisville location (approximately 25,000 miles on the brakes).
The repair was finished, I went and picked up the vehicle.
Next morning, backing out of the garage, the sound was still there. No change other than new brakes and the inconvenience for me to return the vehicle again for diagnosis.
This time, the problem was diagnosed correctly (driveshaft) and was repaired accordingly.
So how would I summarize my experience here?
First: The problem was not diagnosed correctly. I feel that after the initial repair was made, the vehicle was not checked in the manner initially described to see it the repair rectified the problem.
Second: To Fifth Gear's credit, the cost of the initial repair was applied to the price of the driveshaft replacement. Other facilities may not have done this. Thank you.
Third: Over reliance on services such as Carfax as their guide to repairs. For example: The spark plugs and ignition coils in this vehicle were recently replaced (less than 2,500 miles ago). However, Carfax doesn't show that this has been done so it is "a recommended" repair (along with cabin filter, air filter, etc).
I don't mind "Recommend Items" but earn my business first by addressing what the vehicle was brought into the facility for. There seems to be a lot of pressure for the "up-sale" for items you may really not need. This is disappointing.
In summary, will I return to this facility?
At this time, I am not sure. I feel the technician misdiagnosed the problem. Honest mistake? Maybe. But for the cost of the repair makes me want to consider other options.
Could the follow-up after the brake replacement was completed be better? Yes it could have been.
Did Fifth Gear handle the need to look at the car again professionally and perform the required repair? Yes they did.
This has been my experience. Use this information to make your decision on where you go for your...
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