I recently purchased a complete Escort X50 and ZR3 laser shifter system from Car Toys. (This is not a radar detector question so no flames over why I didn’t get a V1) Against my better judgment I allowed them to install the system. Oh man what a mistake.

When they were running the wire to the back laser shifter, instead of removing the lower carpet section by removing the Bose speaker panels and using a Torx, they cut a 4 inch by 2 inch square on either side and ruined the panel. They carefully camouflaged their indiscretion so I wouldn't notice but when I got home, I saw it and flipped.

I am so upset; I woke up and couldn't get back to sleep. Hence the 5 AM posting. I am going back in today to see what they will do about it. I need your advice fast.

Do you have any ideas about what possible recourse I can take? How much does a rear lower section cost to replace? To be clear, this is the rear panel by the ECU that has the two Bose woofer outlets.

What a bunch of hacks. I can't believe they hosed my new car. NEVER, EVER let Car Toys work on your car.

 

Oh man, I feel for you. About 5 years ago I let Car Toys install an alarm system in a Suburban. What a mistake! Worst job I've ever seen, they are complete hacks. From then on I'll only go to the highend shops or more often do it myself.

 

They should cover the new panels for you but will want to install the panels themselves (see the cycle?). They also may argue that they installed the radar as they normally would, which is a bunch of crap. In the end, they'll fix it for you. You might find out now where you can get a replacement panel quickly.

-Bobby

 

Chances they will do anything for you as far as replacing parts is slim, that seems to be the level of work they do and they will come up with an excuse of why they did it that way, doesnt hurt to blow some steam at them and see what comes about, anyway live and learn.

 

I took the car in today to the guy who was in charge of the install and the Asst Mgr of the shop. He was quick to point out HE didn't do it. That much is true; it was a guy helping him out.

I honestly don't think he knew the other guy did this to the car. I have to bring it back on Tuesday when the Shop Manager is there. The Asst said, "we always try to make the customer happy." We shall see.

In the mean time, I am going to get a price on a new panel. I have to replace it no matter what they do so I might as well find out the damage. This install cost $400; you would think they could have done it right. As has been said, live and learn.

 

sorry to hear abt your experience.i had my passport rear difuser installed awhile back n in order to do it properly your right rear side panel plus seat belt housing hv to come out in order to run the wires safely.another thing is to check how the wire is routed thru the engine bay as it gets pretty hot in there.

 

i hear your pain, please let us know hoe it turns out. Good luck

 

Sorry to hear about the install dude! I've had similar experiences and the best I could do is just not do business with the company again.

I would give them the chance to pay for the part and "professional" installation. If they refuse you can always take them to small claims court. I think you have a very good chance.

Whatever route you go with remember that these things happen in life and you're better off just making part of your to do list and don't waste a lot of emotional energy on it.

Good luck!

~Rob

 

Car Toys, are they the stereo shops at the car wash.