I would like to get people's opinion on a recent experience with the Honda dealership. I have a 1999 Accord that has been a fantastic car. This morning, I took it in to the local dealership to have the brakes fixed (worn out pads and brake light on), and have some other pretty basic things done on it. While it was there, they replaced the ignition switch per the recall. When the service rep finally called me back in the afternoon, he said that the starter had gone out, and would need to be replaced. My issue with that is that this Accord has never once had a problem starting. I've owned it for 5 years. So, my options were to have them fix it, or have it towed to somewhere else. Since my wife needed it for a road trip tonight, I didn't really have any choice. So, my questions are:

1. When starter motors go out, is it instant, with no warning?
2. Did I get taken by the dealership?
3. In your opinion, how likely is it that it just happened to go out while at the dealership?
4. Would you trust this dealership in the future?

Anyway, I'm really just looking for opinions. There isn't much I can do about it now, but I wanted to get people's thoughts on this situation.

Thanks in advance!

 

I would have the dealership attempt installing a new ignition switch before you pay for a new starter.

That ignition switch must work properly for the starter to engage, I think it's a mistake on their end not yours.

1. Not usually, if it's really the starter, which I doubt, you can tap/hit them with a 2x4 or plastic mallet and that should be a sign it's on it's way out.

2. Sounds like you're in the process of it. Tell them that the starter worked flawlessly before you brought the car in, you've never EVER had an issue with it until they monkeyed with the ignition switch. It is their fault, call Honda of America if you need to.

3. Unlikely. The fact that it "went out" when they were messing with the ignition system is suspicious enough.

4. Probably not, if they are trying to make money off of recall work. You don't need to take it to the dealer for work, if it's simple things like brakes and what not. Try finding a shop specializing in Hondas in your area.

 

I think he put it down the best for you...