We've given Caryville Garage multiple chances over the years, but unfortunately, the ongoing…read morepattern of misdiagnosis, poor workmanship, and lack of accountability has cost us significant time and money across two different vehicles.
Our most recent issue September 2024 involved my current car, which failed inspection due to a check engine light. We had already told Caryville ahead of time that the code pointed to a failing catalytic converter. Instead of addressing that, they replaced the O2 sensors--only for the car to fail inspection again just a few days later. The check engine light came right back on, and after taking it to the dealer, we were told the brand-new O2 sensors Caryville installed had already been destroyed because the catalytic converter was the real issue all along. That entire visit was a waste, and while we were refunded, the situation showed that their diagnostic process is unreliable at best.
This wasn't our first experience like this. In a previous visit March 2024, they broke our windshield washer reservoir while draining it. They claimed it was accidental, but it raised red flags about their care and honesty. And before that, the issues with my old PT Cruiser were even worse. That car was supposedly "rebuilt" by Caryville for the previous owner, which convinced us to trust them when we bought it. But in the little over a year I had the car, I sank nearly $2,000 into repairs--most of them at Caryville--and it just kept falling apart. From battery problems, to a belt that kept squealing even after they replaced it twice, to finally dying completely and needing both an alternator and battery replacement, it was a nightmare. We were told it wasn't worth fixing anymore and ultimately gave it up.
Looking back, it's hard not to wonder how many of those issues were either misdiagnosed or outright caused by subpar work. We gave Caryville way too many chances, and in the end, all it did was lead to more stress and expense.
We've since taken our business to Charlie's Tire & Service Center, and the difference is night and day. Jay and his staff are honest, straightforward, and actually get the job done right the first time. We've never had to second-guess their work or their word, which is more than I can say for Caryville.
Bottom line: If you're thinking of trusting Caryville Garage with your vehicle, especially for anything more than an oil change, I strongly recommend you look elsewhere. The damage done to both of our cars and the repeated lack of responsibility speak for themselves.
We will never be coming back.
