My recent experience with repeated alternator failures highlights the importance of finding a reliable Dsm Auto Repair shop. Driving down the 401, my voltage plummeted to the low 12s and then to 11.8 volts. This indicated a problem with my alternator, which, frustratingly, had been replaced just a week prior at a local Canadian Tire. Relying on a relatively new battery, I managed to limp home with the voltage hovering around 11V.
The next day, with the voltage down to 10.7V, I returned to the same Canadian Tire. They confirmed the alternator was faulty, requiring yet another replacement. Locating the original invoice proved difficult, and the part was out of stock, necessitating a two-day wait. This entire ordeal stemmed from my initial decision to have the alternator replaced at a convenient but ultimately unreliable location. To date, this string of alternator failures has cost me $1046.91, excluding any potential damage to the battery.
Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
- 38,912 km: Total kilometers driven.
- 5 Bosch Alternators: The number of alternators I’ve gone through. Two failed within 90 days.
- Average Alternator Lifespan: Approximately 8,000 km.
- $1046.91: Total cost, including labor and AVR tests, despite the parts being covered under warranty. The shop refused to provide the part for self-repair.
This experience underscores a significant decline in the quality of service and parts at Canadian Tire. While they were once a reputable option for auto repairs, their current business model seems focused on profit maximization at the expense of customer satisfaction. The combination of inexperienced staff, subpar parts, and poor customer service creates a frustrating and costly experience for car owners. With the rise of competitors like Part Source and Auto Zone, hopefully, Canadian Tire will be forced to re-evaluate its approach to DSM auto repair. Finding a reliable and trustworthy mechanic is crucial for maintaining your vehicle and avoiding unnecessary expenses and headaches. My experience serves as a warning to carefully choose where you take your car for repairs, especially for critical components like the alternator.
