It was time to get my timing belt done. I was 109k and knew it could go at anytime. Before committing to Mouse Meat, I looked at other places in/around Lakewood that serviced VW's. ROLFS had okay reviews.
I'm no professional mechanic. But, I know how to do the simple stuff and can figure out how to do more complex jobs. But this guy really made me feel like I had no idea what was involved. At the time, I had told him that I already had my water pump changed since it already exploded on me about a year ago. He still told me they won't do the job unless they replace the water pump.
This made me venture into Mouse Meat. I had to see if these guys would tell me the same thing and make me feel dumb. Upon walking in, I was greeted by a smile and a hello. Already off to a good start. I told them what I needed done and they told me a few different prices depending on what may or may not be needed. Like for instance, my water pump being new, they wouldn't touch it. They let me walk around in the garage area and look at them work on Audi that was getting its belt done. That was when I met Earl. Earl really talks to you as if you were an enthusiast like himself. It was really refreshing. He doesn't put up a shop owner personality and just speaks to you like a normal person with a shared interest. I was sold.
I set up an appointment. When I dropped the car off I expected it to take most of the day. So, I had a friend pick me up and we went on with our day. About 4hrs after dropping the car off, I get a call saying it is ready for pick up. I'm in disbelief as this moment cause Too Quick's told me it would take roughly 6.5hrs. And Mouse Meat did it in 4.
To my surprise, when I got back to the shop. I see my car parked outside. The whole crew inside is laughing and joking around. Earl dropped another surprise on me. The total cost came out under what I was originally quoted for. Most shops would stick to the original quoted price and here Earl tells me it comes out cheaper because some things didn't need to be replaced or anything. After paying, he took me into the garage and showed me the parts removed and explained how the belts wear down.
I asked him about some other work I wanted done, suspension work. When I told him what brand of coilovers I had already gotten Earl showed me the differences with good suspension by letting me ride in 2 of his personal vehicles. I'm glad he did, feeling the difference as opposed as it being told to you is a world difference. What other shop would do that? None.
I learned a lot. They are the nicest people you can ever do business with. They speak to you like a normal person, regardless of you knowledge on cars or VW/Audi's. If you don't understand, they have no problem breaking it down into simple terms. They are upfront and honest with everything. They don't sell you or try anything shady to get more $ from you.
I'm definitely going to return back to Mouse Meat for future work. Will recommend them to friends/family that may need work done on their cars. read more
