I went here because I had a coupon and the shop is relatively close to my office.
I did notice even before I got to the shop that the coupon said good for most cars.
When I arrived, I showed the coupon to the guy at the shop, I was told the coupon was not good for my car. I do not have an usual car, so I asked why. The person at the shop said something about additional testing being required because of the year of the vehicle. I reluctantly said OK as I was there and just wanted to get the smog check completed.
I had to wait awhile as another car was still connected to the testing equipment. While pacing, I noticed a required sign on the wall. It mentioned that cars OLDER than a certain year needed additional tests, and my car is not older than that date. After reading this, I reiterated that I should be able to use the coupon, and I asked for more information. I received a nonsensical response that I think included being told that this was their shop and they can price as they would like. That is true; they can price as they would like. I believe in capitalism.
I don't agree so much in what seems to be a bait and switch, though. The apparently arbitrary way the shop honors or dishonors the coupon and ultimately prices the smog check is not right. (Some shops do have coupons that state good for all cars.) But, I have to admit that when I was told what the "real" price is, I could have walked out of the place, right?
The test itself was as it should be, and the certificate was properly given to me in paper form and electronically filed with the state. read more