She owns a 2004 micra which is broken down. The engine stalled whilst going along (she managed to re-start) then it wouldn't start the next day. The AA towed her to her nissan dealer where she bought the car and where she has had it serviced each year.
They asked for £300 up front to "remove the gearbox" (first explanation) followed by "it's to strip the engine down" (second explanation) without telling her what they were looking for and what they thought might be wrong. She and I suspected timing belt having seen posts on this...
Then this morning they told her that it was the air conditioning compressor. It would cost £1700!! She told them to just disconnect it - she'd manage without aircon but they say that the engine can't run without the aircon compressor working.
A salvaged compressor can be easily obtained for £100 + VAT - but are they using that as an explanation to shut her up if it is a timing belt issue?
I'd be grateful for a view - are they having a laugh or does any of that make sense?
thanks in anticipation....
Simon
They asked for £300 up front to "remove the gearbox" (first explanation) followed by "it's to strip the engine down" (second explanation) without telling her what they were looking for and what they thought might be wrong. She and I suspected timing belt having seen posts on this...
Then this morning they told her that it was the air conditioning compressor. It would cost £1700!! She told them to just disconnect it - she'd manage without aircon but they say that the engine can't run without the aircon compressor working.
A salvaged compressor can be easily obtained for £100 + VAT - but are they using that as an explanation to shut her up if it is a timing belt issue?
I'd be grateful for a view - are they having a laugh or does any of that make sense?
thanks in anticipation....
Simon
