Took my vehicle in for an ABS and traction control light. I didn't mind paying the $115 for the inspection. It came back that I needed to replace both axles and it would likely fix the reported issue. Estimate did include additional testing. The inspection cost was a sunk cost and not applied to the repair cost if I approved the repairs. Total estimate was approximately $800 I took my vehicle to the dealership for a second opinion and their $70 inspection fee also applies to any work repairs. They came back with a similar issue but said the axles were fine but only the tube rings needed to be replaced. Additionally they found my brake sensor behind the pedal was causing the rumbling sensation when I braked (not found by New Concept). Total to replace the tube rings and brake sensor was $485. Overall opinion with New Concept was average (hence 3 stars). If they had completed a thorough diagnostic and checked the brake system, but also had their fee applied to any repairs, I probably would have been looking at a $1000+ bill. Sorry you couldn't win my business this time.
Derek, I am glad to hear you got your ABS fixed. It felt quite unsafe when we last drove your car. You are correct, the ABS rings can be replaced separately on your axles which costs less, whereas, complete axles are more. However, the rubber CV boots on your axles were cracked and ready to split open which ruins the axle joints. Based on experience, that could happen at any time as the car also has 156,000 miles of wear. Consequently, we recommended new axles since they come with new joints, boots and rings, and we could warranty the work for 3-years/36,000 miles. It's unusual that any shop or dealership would recommend just putting rings on old axles with cracked boots. One of our master technicians recommended additional diagnostic time for issues other than ABS and found your car had 10 codes for three different systems. As you mention, the brake sensor behind the brake pedal is actually the brake light switch which had an intermittent code. This brake switch was not causing the 'rumbling sensation' you reported. The sensation was your ABS system activating on its own due to the broken rings. At New Concept Auto we always look at the big picture for our customers, with safety and reliability in mind first--then proceeding per the customer's wishes. Paul Rupp, owner ASE-certified master technician, L1
- New Concept Auto Service