Absolutely TERRIBLE store. Brought vehicle in for an emission test, they advised they couldn't complete because of an exhaust leak. Okay, I can understand that. I waited for a repair estimate as suggested, came back with an $1193 repair bill. Well, fine, said I will look into it. Went to my vehicle, started it, and it NOW had a loud exhaust noise, it didn't when I brought it in. Took the vehicle to another garage. The owner reviewed the estimate. He clearly indicated several parts which were NOT defective and in good condition as otherwise indicated on the estimate. There was some work required. The gasket on the catalytic converter was worn and he did notice some minor damage on the muffler. Fair enough, although that 'damage' was not there before I brought the vehicle to CT. In the end, my total repair bill was $157 and I then took it to another garage for inspection/clean air - it passed with NO problems.
I called CT head office in Toronto, they wouldn't even consider looking at the issue. I clearly conveyed to them that there was clear evidence of criminal fraud, but they said I had to resolve it at the store.
Spoke with Guy Mitchell, manager of automotive. His take was that everything listed needed replacement and that they dont do repairs, only replace things, that's fine. How about all the other components, ie stainless exhaust pipes, clamps, hangers etc etc they listed?? He didn't care. He did admit that the muffler damage may have occured during their inspection.
So here it is in summary. I was presented with a fraudulent estimate for expensive and unecessary repairs. Other indepent mechanics had reviewed the vehicle and clearly showed me that most of the repairs quoted were NOT required and in fact those components were in good shape.
CT head office doesn't care , the automotive manager obviously appears to be complicit in these actions.
No doubt, no question, this is criminal fraud.
I hope hat if others have experienced this sort of thing that they'll take action. I'm certainly considering further legal action against them and would appreciate to hear from anyone with a similar experience.