Hello.. thanks so much for assisting me with the previous question re: my 1996 Mercedes C220 & its failed smog. I was able to receive the $500 for CAP repairs. I want to know if I can go to another shop because I'm not comfortable with whom I'm using.
I paid $75 for diagnostic was told my 02 sensor needed replacing ($282 part, $50 repair).. OK.. it was done. Then told I needed to drive the vehicle which I did, when I returned after a week, the car was not completing the catalytic code, however the smog repair shop gave me an option of running another test, charging me if the vehicle failed. I don't have that kind of money.. so I chose to continue driving the vehicle until the monitor was complete.
While driving I decided to go to a smog test offering pass or don't pay. Well, I did not pass and the smog report was much worse.. a gross polluter. I contacted the BAR explaining the situation, the rep said for me to return it to the smog repair explain to them because often when you change one part it can cause others to malfunction. Whatever.. Upon returning the vehicle with the new smog report, I waited again, day 4. I am now being told that the vehicle needs a Mass Air Flow Sensor ($594 part, $76 repairs). I asked why this wasn't diagnosed in the beginning. So not only does this take me over the $500, but beyond the $650 for a waiver and way beyond my budget. I asked them if I found a cheaper part, if I could use it. We are suppose to discuss it this week. I found a cheaper Bosche part online.
I'm already at the 60 days permit allowed, but returning to DMV to ask for more time or follow through with the "family transfer". Am I allowed to use another Smog Repair shop, using the remainder of the $500? Oh and I just recognized that someone removed the sticker on the inside of my door panel. Why? Thank you so much again for your time.
