Yes, believe it, another awesome 5 star experience with Universal Motors. I know it sounds quirky…read more- - I mean, how can anyone consistently exceed customer expectations every single time? Universal can, let me show you.
Aside from "Katrina" (my '01 Silver Bullet) I also own an '88 Toyota Supra Turbo named "Black Beauty". I bought her used in '99 from my BFF after college graduation and moved her down to the TX heat from MI. If Paris Hilton ever had the privilege to ride in Black Beauty she'd definitely say "That's Hot".
Fast forward a few years, I started having engine problems - when I used the A/C the engine would overheat w/in 20 min, that's not good because now you're talking about something serious. I eventually got used to driving w/ the windows open and no A/C (yes, sweating like a pig). None of my friends wanted to ride w/ me in Black Beauty, we soon became loners, and we both took it personally. Like Paris says: "That's Hot".
I did a lot of online research to diagnose the issue. Years ago before I discovered Universal Motors I took her to another local shop who directed me to take the expensive route: replace a bunch of parts and see what happens. So I paid them to overhaul my A/C, install new radiator, hoses, and thermometer. The result: no change, the engine still overheats with the A/C on. So after spending $2,500+ I got really upset at them and ranted: "WTF is wrong w/ my car?!?!". Their response: "I don't know". My response: "You suck!!". Paris would say: "That's Not Hot".
I eventually upgraded and bought "Katrina", then let Black Beauty sit idle for a very long time, not sure what I would ever do with her. I thought about selling her, but the engine issue is a risk to any new owner, and I wouldn't get that much for her. Not to mention, we are also emotionally attached. Yeah Paris, we're hot.
Fast Forward 4 years, enter Universal Motors. After several consistently great experiences w/ David Chong for my Lexus I finally dropped BB off and told him my sappy story. He spent 5 min looking over the engine and tinkering w/ it and immediately finds the root cause: "you have a bad clutch fan, that's about $85". What?!?! Are you sure?!? "Yes, I'm very sure, but let me do a more thorough check just to be safe.
David did an extensive engine diagnosis and it turns out he was dead on - a new clutch fan fixed my engine overheating problem. I was shocked at how quickly Mr. Chong was able to correctly and accurately diagnose the problem, and all I could think about was how I wished I had found him sooner, but then again it's better late than never. He took good care of Black Beauty, spent a lot of time on her, and also repaired a few other minor issues. Now she runs like a young black thoroughbred like she used to, beatin' the hell outta Mustang Cobras and any Rice Burner who crosses our path. Our next project: a new coat of paint.
Forget Paris Hilton, Black Beauty hearts Universal Motors.