5 /5 Michael Lehman: First a little background. In a former career, I worked for a fleet garage that primarily handled tractor-trailers, but also did some work on standard size fleet trucks and cars. I handled parts inventory and work order flow, as well as did a lot of the F2F with outside garages and vendors. Ive also had a lot of personal experience with local dealerships and shops in my more than 40 years in the community.
Ive done most of the work on our beloved 1997 Toyota 80 series Land Cruiser since we bought it a decade ago, but I am not getting any younger. And some jobs a good part-time mechanic should be smart enough to leave to the pros. So finding myself with a dead A/C system and a mess of oil getting all over in the engine bay, this was one of those times. Especially given Id misdiagnosed the source of the oil.
Id noticed the URL on the back of the Specialized Sequoia around town and had already put them on the short list of shops I would be willing to consider dropping the truck off with by virtue of their focus on Toyotas. A friend recently purchased a built 96 80 series and had the opportunity to experience Specialized service and highly recommended it.
Eric got me in quickly and had the truck diagnosed and the A/C cooling again while I waited the first day. I enjoyed a nice chat about my research with Machelle in between her handling other appointments and business. Turns out it wasnt a distributor O-ring but the oil pump/main bearing gasket/seal. Well that explains the mess - and it kept me from going down the wrong road with a repair.
Parts needed to be ordered, but I was scheduled back in quickly and got the truck back the same day after they arrived in short order at very reasonable cost. Its nice its now not dripping everywhere it parks. And its great to confirm that the truck will be in the very professional hands of Specialized Automotive next time our Toyota Land Cruiser needs some specialized TLC. They are truly among the best of the best when it comes to being a trustworthy shop to handle your vehicles maintenance needs. I recommend them highly.
Update: Still my go-to shop when I need a pro techs help, Erics rep is spreading. The positive word is getting around among Land Cruiser owners, as I frequently see several lined up on a daily basis as there is frequent turnover, with a steady mix of stock and built trucks that others bring in for that Specialized touch.