Reason for Visit: Service
I recommend this dealer: Yes
My Review of Alexandria Toyota:
The check engine light on my Toyota Sienna came on. I took the van to a Sunoco gas station near my house. They checked the computer and diagnosed that the oxygen sensors were defective. I asked them to fix it. I left the van there overnight. They replaced the front sensors and told me that they could not get the other sensor out. They did not have the proper tools to do the job.
I took the van to Fairfax Toyota and explained what happened (third day). The first thing I heard "big Money". I asked how big, the sales man said “big big big .” On top of all, they had to do their own diagnosis which was another $115.00, otherwise they would not accept the job. The salesman told me that it may not be the oxygen sensor, and could be other things..., and kept repeating "big money". I asked them to do the diagnosis and give me a repair estimate before fixing it. I left the van there overnight. The next day (4th day) I received a call from Fairfax Toyota. I was told that the exhust manifold was cracked, the oxygen sensor is damaged, and there may be other problems as well. I asked how much was the damage? I was told: “a minimum of $1,800.00 for replacing the one manifold, installing a new oxygen sensor and resetting the computer”.
I called the first gas station and asked them if the manifold was cracked. I was told: “no way a cracked manifold makes a loud noise and your van did not make any noise”. The gas station mechanic told me that the dealer’s mechanic did not know what he was talking about.’ I asked the mechanic how much did it cost to replace the manifold. I was told by the mechanic around $100 to $200 for the manifold and $$20 to $50 for washers, other parts and $200 for replacement, $500 max.
Since I did not trust the gas station and Fairfax Toyota, I started calling around. All other dealerships in the northen Virginia gave me a quote for doing the sane job between $700 to $900. Two dealerships service representatives, Alexandria and Arlington told me that they could salvage the manifold and it may cost less to fix the car.
I called Fairfax Toyota and talked to the dealership service manager and asked him why it costed so much to replace a manifold. I asked for a break down of cost. He said the parts are around $300 and the repair costs $1,500. He said that it was a very tough job.”
At any rate, I took my car in the evening from Fairfax and paid the $115 for diagnosis. I took the van to the Alexandria Toyota because it was close to my work (4th day). Elliot, the service representative took care of the problem. The next day (5th day) he said that they salvaged the manifold and I only paid around $530.00. I picked up the van and engine light is gone.
I would like to urge all Toyota owners to check the rates at other dealerships before doing business with Ourisman Fairfax Toyota. Talk with Elliot too (703)778-3808.
I was planning to buy a new car from Ourisman,in fact I had discussed it with one of their sales representatives. But now I have decided not to do business with them again even though they are only 1.5 miles from my house. In fact, I am planning to ask for reimbursement for their incorrect diagnosis of the problem with my van. The manifold was not cracked.
My wife and I are planning to replace our cars with two new cars, most likely Toyota. First I will check with Alexandria Toyota (which is 25 miles from my house) and Arlington Toyota, because all cars need service some day and everyone expects to be treated professional and honestly.
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