Mechanic Tried To Scam Me Out Of $5,000 For Minor Fixes. He Didn't Realize I'm A Retired Mechanic

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I’ve worked on cars my whole life, but after a back injury, I can’t do the heavy work anymore. Yesterday, I took my car in for a simple battery replacement and routine maintenance.

A few hours later, they called me back. “Bad news, your engine’s on its last legs. Gonna cost at least $5,000.” I played dumb and asked to see it myself.

When I arrived, the guy started pointing at random parts, making up names. I nodded along, then popped the hood and started asking him real questions…

Entering The Auto Shop

As I pushed open the door to the auto shop, the familiar scent of motor oil hit my nostrils. Jeff, the mechanic, greeted me with a smile that seemed more practiced than genuine.

"Hey there! What can I help you with today?" he asked. His eager eyes scanned me, probably hoping for a quick deal, but I gave nothing away.

The shop buzzed with activity, and I felt the weight of old memories returning.

The Firm Handshake

Jeff extended his hand for a shake, gripping mine with a force that screamed eagerness. "Mike, right?

Let's see what we can do for you today," he said, his enthusiasm almost palpable. I could feel the tension in his clasp, as if closing this deal swiftly was his main aim.

I just smiled back, reminding myself to play along for now as he released my now slightly aching hand.

Observing The Shop

I took a moment to glance around the shop, observing the mechanics who hustled around. A couple of them were fumbling with tasks I could've done blindfolded in my day.

The younger ones seemed flustered by the simplest issues. It’s like watching rookies figure out basic repairs for the first time.

Jeff kept his focus on me, oblivious to the minor disasters unfolding around him.

Tech Talk

Jeff started speaking in what he probably thought was a mechanician’s dialect, mentioning things like 'transmission misalignment' and 'calibrative synchronization'.

I stood there, nodding along, while internally chuckling at his oversized jargon. It was clear he was trying to baffle me with big words, knowing I seemed much older and unassuming.

Silence lingered on my part, hidden beneath my curious facade.