I don't like leaving negative reviews, but I've tried for the last few weeks to work things out with Micahel Jasko at Midas on 2964 East Main Street in Mesa Arizona 85213.

Here is what happened:

My wife got one of those free oil change coupons and took it in to Midas. When we got there she called and said we needed new tires. Really, we didn't need new tires, but we did have for 2 years and new tires probably wouldn't hurt (bought it used). So I asked to speak to Michael Jasko on the phone.

I thought tires would be about $125 a piece for a total of $500, tops. Well he said they would be that much... no suprise. I agreed to $500 over the phone. I thought prices were a bit high for tires, but he convinced me that it's the only tire recommended for this type of car and yes, they were a bit expensive.

Later, my wife called me in shock and said there would be an $800+ charge. She explained that he asked her for every possible upgrade. Stuff we'd never buy, but she assumed I had approved it all with him already on the phone. He never said there was an additional charge to her until he brought the bill and it was all done.

Here are the things he jacked up (beyond the original $500 which I feel was a rip off to begin with):

Nitro fill tires – who ever buys this?!?!? He just asked, do you want nitro in the tires? My wife, clueless, said, ok. I can imagine what Michael was thinking, “Woohoo, I got a sucker here! Lets see what else I can rack up”

Extra Warranty – who ever buys this? Your tires will have a warranty. Ok.

Want an air filter swapped out for $25? I know your husband can unhook and rehook this box, but we'd like to take advantage of you because you don't know jack about cars...

Surprise, there is also a $193 labor charge, above the $500 we already agreed on.

Oh, and you don't qualify for the free oil change by the way, your car is special.

Ok, all done, sign this paper, or else I'll hold your car ransom. What you are upset? You agreed to all, remember?

I agreed to $500 for new tires, that's it! I specifically asked, it will only be $500 for new tires right? Michael Jasko (the franchise shop owner) said, yes, that's all. No additional fees right? Nope.

Ok, go ahead, I trust you... man was that ever a mistake!

So, instead of throwing a tantrum, which is what I wanted to do... I called and asked why the bill was $800+ when we agreed on $500. He said, well your wife signed the paper. Ok, I assumed it was an honest mistake and as a business if someone wants to buy something, even if it's not what they need, I guess that's the way he operates...

So I offered to do some work in trade (I do websites). He was agreeable at first, but blew me off for almost 2 months afterwards. He wouldn't return my calls and if he ever answered he'd say, “oh I have a line of customers, can I call you back?” … yes I would say... but he'd never call back.

I wrote emails asking when we could meet to proceed... no response until I threaten BBB complaint.

This is how he does business folks! Stay away!

I would suggest you go to a mechanic you can trust. One that I've found and trust is: College Automotive (480) 655-7699. They repaired my neon and helped me to decide if I needed to fix things or wait until it's worse. I totally felt like they were on my side and trying to help me get the best deal, while still being safe. If you want honest service, stay away from MIDAS!