I thought I got screwed buying a used car from an older guy who seemed legit. I paid $2,300 in…read morecash, got a clean title, and was told all it needed was a CV axle. I figured I could handle that since I was tight on cash, and the repair wouldn't go over $500. After a quick test drive around the block--where I did hear some clicking, but it didn't sound too bad--I decided to buy it.
On my 20-mile drive home, that clicking sound started raising doubts. It didn't seem like just a CV axle issue anymore, though I couldn't quite figure out what it was. The engine and transmission were running great, so I thought it had to be something simple, right? I took it to a highly-rated local shop, and they diagnosed the problem as the front differential or transmission (it's an AWD vehicle). Unfortunately, they said they don't work on transmissions. Well, FML.
Next, I took it to a well-recommended transmission shop. After a few days, they confirmed the same issue and gave me a rough estimate of $1,900 to $2,500 for a used replacement. No rebuilt or new parts were available. FMLx2.
I then brought it to my go-to guy, who's great at swapping parts and doing some diagnostics. He said he could handle the repair for $1,200, including sourcing a used part. But after two weeks of searching, he had no luck. FMLx3.
At this point, I did my own research and decided if I could stay under $2,500, the repair would be worth it based on the car's value. I posted a project on Yelp to solicit bids from local shops. That's when Memo from AAMCO reached out.
I was hesitant at first, but AAMCO has been around forever, and Memo seemed legit. I figured they'd either be the most expensive or the most reasonable since they specialize in transmissions. I checked reviews on Google and Yelp, and they looked good, so I decided to give Memo a shot.
I dropped by to talk to him, and he was great--super communicative and really listened to my situation. I left the car with him, and the next day, I got a call. Of course, the repair exceeded my $2,500 budget. Same diagnosis: front differential/transmission replacement with a used unit. The estimate was $2,800, but they'd thoroughly inspect the replacement to ensure it was good. So close, but still over budget. I told him I'd call back.
I was ready to schedule the car for auction and cut my losses, but something in my gut told me the car was worth saving. I called Memo back and asked if he could do it for $2,700. After some discussion, he agreed to work with me.
Two days later, the car was ready. Memo had a surprise for me--the replacement transmission came with a new mount, and they managed to bring the total cost just under $2,600, nearly at my budget. THAT is honesty and integrity.
I've been driving the car, and it feels exactly how a 20-year-old car in great shape should. No more clicking noises, and it's running beautifully. Since AAMCO handles other types of repairs, Memo and his team have officially become my go-to shop. I highly recommend seeing Memo at AAMCO if you need reliable, trustworthy service.
