Incompetent mechanic

Actually your mechanic did give you quality service. He knew you didn't want to spend much money, so turning off the light & seeing how long before it comes back on tells them how serious it is. My mechanic does that every time I tell him I don't have the money for repairs. Sometimes the computer gives false readouts which I have had happen more than once. Now, when my check engine light comes on I SAVE money by going to Auto Zone. They will hook up the computer diagnostic reader for FREE in hopes you'll buy the necessary parts from them. My mechanic always uses Auto Zone parts so they get their money back on me!!! Auto Zone will NOT turn the light off, but will tell you what the car's computer says is the problem. So, when you take it to the mechanic, you know what the problem is. I've had nothing but rip offs from dealer repair shops. I had engine trouble on one car & the dealer told me I fried the engine & it would cost me $4,000 to replace the engine. I did not have that kind o money so I sent it to a local mechanic who said he would look & see what he could find. Then he called me & said all I needed was a part replaced & it would cost me $50. For the difference in $3,950, I'll let my mechanic turn off the light & wait to see how long before it comes back on!!! Dealers are notorious for fixing things that are NOT broke & charging an arm & a leg to fix it!!!

Generally, the dealer has the most competent mechanics, but you will pay, dearly, for the privilege of using them. They also have the most up-to-date information regarding your particular vehicle, usually. As a friend of mine used to say: You can get the job done right, quickly, or inexpensively and you can only get it two of those three options. If you want it done right and quickly it won't be inexpensive. If you want it done inexpensively it won't be quick or right. If you want it done quickly it won't be inexpensive. Take your pick.