Earlier today, I took my car to La Mesa Automotive (LMA) for the first time and it will surely be the last time. And, before I go any further, I just want to make you aware that when they offer ride service to their customers it's only one way. You need to find another way back. I live about a mile and a half from LMA. Imagine that, over the years, I have had my cars serviced by numerous dealers and repair shops. They have always offered both ways, but not LMA, both sad and ridiculous. I received a coupon card in the mail from LMA offering air conditioning service for $89.95. It seemed like a good deal, but it was anything but that. Now, I'm not an expert on automotive mechanics by any stretch on imagination, but I know just enough to know when something isn't right. A couple hours after I dropped my car off, I received a call from Nick. He delivered the news that the condenser needed to be replaced, new valves and it needed to be recharged with Freon at an eye popping price of over $2,800. Now, I've owned many cars, and I've never paid anywhere near that for any kind of service. I paid $1,100 for a new water pump a little over a year ago. I did a little research on condensers and the average price including labor seemed to range between $500-$1,000. Ok, throw in another $500 for fixing leaks, valves and Freon and it comes to maybe $1,500, but $2,800? It gets better, then they threw in a list of recommendations, new rear tires? They're just a little over a year old and have tons of tread left. Then replace rear engine mount, replace right engine mount and replace transmission mount. Huh? Replace cabin air filter, vehicle has oil leaks, replace engine coolant, transmission flush. I believe I replaced coolant last year and I only drive 12 minutes to my office when not working from home. Now, I have my car serviced and oil changed by a nearby automotive repair shop nearby 3 to 4 times a year. My last service was around 4 months ago. I had my oil changed, multi point inspection and front brakes replaced all for $429.96 and they never mentioned that any of the things LMA said needed attention. I've been going there for a couple years now. And wow, they provide rides both ways! If I had agreed to all to LMA's recommendations, I would have been in for I think close to $5,000. Gouging a first time customer and running up the tab is a really stupid and clueless way to do business. The only offering one way rides and recommending replacement of perfectly good tires were the final tip off. I didn't know about the over the top recommendations until I read the invoice. I paid $20 to my hired driver for the ride back and $89.00 just to get my car back. But, I feel that in the end I got of cheaply. My advice would be if you should receive a coupon from LMA, tear it up and ignore it. It's just a scam to get you in there so they can ramrod you and take you to the cleaners. read more