in Checking In

Honda offers olive branch

Last night I got so worked up about the Odyssey repair that I had trouble getting to sleep. I gave a call this morning to Steven, our service advisor at Leith Honda, curtly and politely emphasizing my displeasure with this whole issue. I reminded him how we were loyal Leith customers and expected some consideration for that.

Steven sounded understanding and reiterated that it was out of his dealership’s hands, pointing the finger at American Honda. He said he would put in another call to the regional manager and I thanked him. Not twenty minutes later, Steven called Kelly and said he’d gotten a $400 discount but was told “somewhat less than politely” by American Honda that that was all we were going to get. I figured that was enough of a concession so I called him to thank him for his efforts.

We’re getting the rebuilt transmission put in and the two engine mounts replaced for a total of $1800, labor included. Expensive, yes, but the work comes with a new warranty and will keep the minivan on the road for a few more years.

Once we move in to our downtown home we’ll evaluate our transportation needs and decide if we need to keep the Odyssey after all. At least we can sell it with a clear conscience should we decide to do so.

Kudos to Steven and Leith Honda for going to bat for us. While we won’t be buying another Honda, we’ll keep getting our existing ones serviced at Leith Honda after all.

Update: The final bill for the rebuilt transmission and new engine mounts was shy of $1600. Kelly’s 10% coupon saved us an additional $170.