When we returned seven hours later, we expected to have no problems since we received no call. To our surprise, we were informed it was failed because the check engine light was on (which is an automatic fail). They informed my husband that if we paid them $75 to "diagnose" the problem and then pay whatever the cost to repair the problem, we would not be charged the $30 again to re-smog the vehicle.

I called and spoke to a woman that evening. I asked how it is ethical to see the check engine light during the tune-up, know it is automatically failed, and still charge the $30 for the smog. She explained that it was an automatic fail but that they continued the smog anyway. I have no idea how legal this is but ethically, this is not good business!!!

They NEVER even called to see if we wanted them to smog the vehicle after seeing the check engine light during the tune-up. They continued the smog so that we would be obligated to pay the smog fee even though they had done no work when they knew it would fail. I don't have $60 to smog and re-smog my vehicle. I am not going to pay them $75 to just see what is wrong and then overpay to have it repaired. I can't even believe this is allowed. How can they expect repeat business if they continue these practices? Is there anything you can do to keep this from happening again?

Wouldn't it be ethical to call the customer after the tune-up and give them the option of cancelling the smog, or maybe even allowing the diagnosis, repairs, and then smog?