Wrong diagnosis from the mechanic

[Wit]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state? Texas

My car was running hot so I took it to the shop to get it checked out. The mechanic told me it was a bad water pump, hole in my radiator and a broken fan strout. The cost to repair/fix the car would be $850. I authorized the work to be performed and the mechanic fixed/replaced the parts he stated on the initial call. Unfortunately, I received a call saying what he fixed was not the issue. Apparently, the engine block was busted and the mechanic could not have known this problem before he fixed the water pump, radiator hole, etc. The cost to replace the engine would be $4000 - $5000 and he does not recommend spending the money on the automobile. However, he expects me to pay the $850 and have a wrecker tow the car (however, I drove the car to his ship). I’m telling him I should not have to pay the labor since his mechanic mis-diagnosed the problem. Has anybody run across an issue like this? Do I have any rights to refuse payment?

 

[pojo2]

You yourself said the problem could not be determined until these things were fixed, now which is it misdiagnoses or you just don't want to pay now.

Sure you can not pay and he can take you to court to collect.

 

[JETX]

Has anybody run across an issue like this?

Presumably, the mechanic made his 'best guess' at the cause of the problem. Unless there was a specific guarantee that was the fix, he isn't liable for it not. (However, I will say that $850 sounds HIGH for the work you describe).

Do I have any rights to refuse payment?

Yep. You can certainly refuse. The mechanic will then keep the car and sell it with the proceeds going towards your bill. If it doesn't sell for enough to pay the full bill owed, then the mechanic can get a judgment against you for the difference.

Sounds like you need to pay it and get the car back, then have another mechanic or two look at it. Based on their inspection, you might have a basis for a lawsuit to get some of your money back.