Update
Update
Thanks Big Jim
I've editied the report quite a bit and added a section with color photos. I filed the complaint with the NYS DMV initially. They claim to have an administrative judge review the case and act as an arbitrator. In addition, they claim to have 'technical experts' who review the case and issue a report as to its merits. It's true that NYS DMV can't make the shop refund anything. However, they can suggest it strongly. In any case, this doesn't stop me from going to court. And, if I have a favorable DMV technical opinion, this should weigh heavily with the Judge (I hope).
In any case, if NYS DMV decides they've screwed up with the Safety Inspection division they're in a world of hurt. Without that license, they'll lose business big time.
Right on the invoice they state I have a 30-day warranty, yet they completely ignored this when I went to talk to them about it. The shop manager was claiming that they were trying to "do me a favor." He was actually trying to assume the role of victim! His arrogance is astounding. When I asked him if he realized that restricting the IMRC rod could damage the engine, he said "I always do it to Windstars, maybe the Contour is different."
I began to realize this guy may just be plain ignorant. He never considered any time of recompense. It appears he feels this episode is over. I"ve done eveything I can staying within the law. The complaint to the DMV is only the first step. I'm looking into consumer agencies - and of course my local small claims court if this is how I have to deal with him. I don't want to do this, but he's left me no choice in the matter. These are links to what I filed with the DMV, if you're interested.
http://www.cinesage.com/testimony_new.pdf
http://www.cinesage.com/pictures_new.pdf
By the way, I forgot to mention that the 'testimony' corresponds with the official form I had to file with NYS DMV. The 'questions' and 'Part' references correspond with the contents of the form. I know it seems lengthy. But, I didn't know how else to get it all out. The two linked documents are addendums to the form, which do not provide enough sapce for details.