I've been a loyal customer of this smog shop in Vista. Up until now, I've had great experiences with a gentleman who I assumed was the owner. He's always been professional and courteous, which is why I've continued to come back. On one occasion, I interacted with a woman who performed a smog test without much interaction, but she wasn't rude, so I thought nothing of it.
However, during my most recent visit, my experience was completely unacceptable. I called to ask a question about smog testing requirements for a truck that had a check engine light turn off after being driven. Instead of answering my question professionally, the woman on the phone responded dismissively and rudely, cutting me off mid-explanation, and then hung up on me after saying I should "take it to another mechanic."
Wanting to resolve the issue, I called back and spoke to the gentleman, who apologized for her behavior. I explained the situation and told him I would come by in person. When I arrived, I intended to speak directly with him, but the woman immediately confronted me in an aggressive manner, falsely accusing me of parking in the wrong spot and then dismissing me when I tried to explain myself. She began berating me, making vague accusations about how I "was rude" on the phone without giving any basis or opportunity for me to defend myself.
The gentleman agreed to handle my smog check and work with me directly, but while I waited at the edge of the parking lot to avoid further confrontation, the woman continued to mock me loudly in front of other customers. This was not only unprofessional but humiliating. I calmly asked her to stop and informed her I would record the interaction as evidence of her behavior. Rather than addressing the situation or asking me to leave, she escalated matters further by calling the police and falsely claiming that I had threatened her--which I did not.
To Marco, the owner of this business: Your employee has already falsely accused me of threatening her, which is not only illegal but a serious and damaging claim. If you or your business attempt to further misrepresent me publicly, this will only compound the harm caused by her initial illegal actions. Dismissing this issue outright and simply taking your employee's side, as you have done in response to similar complaints in the past, will not resolve this matter--it will only escalate it. I urge you to take accountability and address this situation appropriately to avoid further consequences. I want an apology from your female tech.
This was an incredibly disappointing experience. I've supported this business because of its location and fair pricing, but no customer should ever have to endure the level of disrespect, dismissal, and outright hostility I experienced. The actions of this employee don't just reflect poorly on her but on the business as a whole.
If you're considering this shop, be aware that the potential to be treated unprofessionally by this employee is significant. I hope the management takes accountability and addresses this issue so future customers don't have to experience what I did.
How the owner responds will say a lot. read more