Looking to cheat me out of R25k+

Had 2 issues with MechSpec. First issue was not so bad - basically ****-poor communication. Went in and asked for a quote to do a Timing Chain tensioner. They promised to come back to me. About a week later I went back to the shop to follow up. They apologized and promised to get the quote to me ASAP. Never heard from them again.

My second complaint is more serious. I was driving my car on the N3 North, it had barely had time to warm up when the temp gauge shot up to MAX, got Engine Warning light and curiously the coolant temp gauge went to MIN. Other than these warning lights, there seemed nothing wrong with the car. No smoking, no steam etc. However I still pulled over to be safe and had my car recovered to MechSpec because they are a BOSCH SERVICE Centre affiliated with AA Warranties and are near my workplace. After about 45mins when I arrived I switched on the ignition to see the engine temp and it was STILL at Max. I checked the coolant - level within range, I checked oil filler cap, clear. Started the car and it started no problem.

So based on this I presumed the problem was a faulty temp sensor gauge.

After a day or two MechSpec called to say my head gasket had blown and they would have to open the engine and assess the level of damage. The repairs estimated at a minimum of R25k. Also said if the head was cracked I would be looking at minimum R30k+. During the conversation he said along the lines of "if you look at the oil filler cap you can see its milky so clearly a blown gasket" But again they said before anything else they must open the engine then they can provide a formal quote for AA warranties. Their policy is deposit of 50% before commencing work.

This made me suspicious, I consulted with another mechanic who is fami**** with the vehicle and they confirmed my suspicions. I went to look at the vehicle while it was still in Mechspec's possession. Took photos of a)CLEAR oil filler cap b)CLEAR dipstick, started the engine - no smoke, etc. Filmed this as well.

So then I took the vehicle to another accredited workshop who ran extensive tests, and confirm there is absolutely nothing wrong with the car.

I have no doubt once the engine was opened Mechspec would have taken me for a ride of over R30k.

They are an accredited BOSCH SERVICE CENTRE which made me think they would be trustworthy. Be very careful – Just because a workshop is affiliated with BOSCH means nothing they could also be complete ***boys.