Ask an expert

Recently had a AA call out.The problem was incorrectly diagnoses after being taken to AA service providers workshop was given a quote on that first diagnose etc. I told the shop on the Friday that I had a spare key and will come down and try it in case the original key was not tuned in to car computer was told don't bother as we know what the problem is....well it turned out they got it wrong it was the key and remote so they went ahead without any consultation with me, not to mention no consent from me to purchase and program key at a cost of $360 I dont need a new key I have a spare key told them I'm not paying for something I don't need. They also had the vehicle for 4 days when I should of just gone down on the first day with my spare key and sorted the whole problem out then and there,but no they knew best.. yeah right !! ......they were incompetent and didn't bother to ring me in regard to this unnecessary purchase so I have told them I am not paying for something I do not need and have no reason to buy........am I justified in this decision I think I am. It was solely there decision to go ahead with this key/remote purchase not mine . If incompetent workshops are allowed to do this then we may as well give them a open signed checkbook and tell them to buy what ever they feel will help line there pockets.
sam-step

No repairer has the right to carry out repairs or replace parts without your authority, so if the facts and sequence of events is as you have outlined, it would not seem reasonable for the workshop to insist you buy a new key.
However, if they diagnosed it as a key problem and you told them you had a spare, it seems odd that they would insist that you buy a new one rather than trying your second key.
We'd like to discuss this with you further in order to get more details. Please email to aatech@aa.co.nz with your contact details and we will contact you ASAP.

Have sent a e-mail to you

cheers