I built AutoStamp after one too many experiences where I couldn't prove what work had-or hadn't-been done to my cars. I realised that photos, invoices and a permanent service history could protect owners, improve trust and help maintain a vehicle's value. This is my story... What's yours?
I have many accounts of questionable garage work, though a recent experience when I bought a new car, perfectly sums everything up.
In February this year I purchased a dream car. I hunted for a long time and found a garage in the north of England, about 3 hours drive away that had a lovely example. I had to have it.
The car looked lovely and all docs with the car seemed in order. I was told the car had just been put through a service by them and was ready to go.... I only had their word that a service had been carried out of course!
Over the next couple of weeks I noticed, especially after rain, colourful spots under the car. Was it engine oil, fuel, coolant or brake fluid? I couldn't be sure, though naturally I was worried.
Worst case scenario I was thinking head gaskets, blocked PCV valves, or was something cracked? If it were coolant I was especially worried as this hybrid could be in more trouble that I bargained for. I was hoping for a simple reason, though prepared for the worst. I put the car up on the quick-jacks to personally inspect.
I found the sump plug was leaking and loose.... very loose sump plug! It had not been tightened. At all! wow.
Could this be it? I was now hoping for best case scenario.
I proceeded to carry out my own service on the car... an Auto Stamp Approved Service, and I'm glad I did.
Here was my findings
1 - The oil had NOT been changed recently
2 - The Air Filter had NOT been changed recently
3 - The sump had clearly NOT even been inspected by garage before the sale
This story has a really happy ending, in that I caught the leak, carried out the service with ease and all was well.... the car never leaked again after this.
However the scenario that got me to this post is not a unique experience. I'm sure many of us out there have similar stories they share.
I look forward to reading them
Jim
