Payless Auto and Collision

Payless Auto and Collision, located at 1810 12th St SE, Salem, OR 97302, USA, functions as an "Auto Repair Station," a broad category encompassing various automotive services. As its name suggests, this business is intended to provide both general auto repair and collision-related services, offering a range of labor for vehicle maintenance and repair, as well as the necessary parts and supplies for these services. Like all businesses in this sector, Payless Auto and Collision aims to provide solutions for vehicle owners facing mechanical issues or damage from accidents.

Regarding the environment of Payless Auto and Collision, typical auto repair and collision shops maintain a functional workspace equipped for various automotive tasks. This generally includes diagnostic equipment, lifts for vehicle access, tools for mechanical repairs, and potentially specialized areas for bodywork and painting if full collision services are offered. A customer reception area would also be expected. The location on 12th St SE indicates an accessible presence within the Salem area, common for such service centers. However, the customer reviews provided do not offer insights into the physical cleanliness or organization of the shop, focusing instead on the outcomes of services rendered and customer interactions.

The services offered by Payless Auto and Collision, as an "Auto Repair Station" with "Auto" and "Collision" in its name, would typically include a wide array of general mechanical repairs and bodywork. For mechanical repairs, this would cover services such as: **engine diagnostics**, addressing issues like oil leaks, misfires, and sensor malfunctions; **routine maintenance**, including oil changes, fluid checks, and filter replacements; **brake system repairs**; and potentially **transmission services** and **suspension work**. For collision services, they would generally handle **dent removal, panel replacement, paint repair, and structural frame adjustments**. The reviews specifically mention services such as replacing an "oil pressure sensor," diagnosing and repairing "oil leak," and working on "cam/crank position sensor connectors," confirming their engagement in mechanical diagnostics and repairs. They would also procure and sell the necessary parts for these repairs, such as sensors, gaskets, and hoses.

The features and operational practices of Payless Auto and Collision, as illuminated by the provided customer reviews, highlight significant and concerning issues. A recurring theme in the feedback points to **diagnostic inaccuracies and subsequent repair failures**. One customer detailed taking their Dodge Ram back "3 times for a simple oil pressure sensor" and having to be "towed each time after driving it off the lot." This indicates repeated failures to correctly identify and resolve the initial problem, leading to continuous vehicle breakdowns immediately after service. Specific errors noted include "reversed cam/crank position sensor connectors" and a "broken fuel vapor return line bracket," which subsequently caused the "Hose melted on exhaust." The fact that a friend's Ford truck experienced the "same sensor wiring screw-up at the same time" suggests a pattern of fundamental mechanical errors rather than isolated incidents. A particularly severe issue is the alleged **refusal to repair their mistakes**, stating the "Shop absolutely sucks and refused to repair their mistakes!" This points to a critical lack of accountability and professional responsibility.

Another detailed review from a "former mechanic" further corroborates diagnostic issues and a perceived lack of thoroughness. This customer brought their car in for a "bad oil leak" and was incorrectly told it was "valve covers leaking." After paying for this repair, the "bad oil leak was still present" and was actually coming from the "re main seal." The mechanic's explanation about "no crankcase pressure" at the time of inspection was dismissed as "BS" by the customer, who noted the car would "dump" oil instantly. This highlights a critical failure in **thorough diagnostic procedures**, including cleaning the engine to properly trace leaks or using UV dye when a leak is hard to decipher. The customer felt their "time and money was wasted because the problem wasn't fixed and my car is still dumping oil." This also underscores a significant disconnect between the perceived diagnostic competence of the shop and the industry standards expected by a knowledgeable customer. The customer's decision not to allow them to proceed with the more extensive (and correctly diagnosed) repair due to prior diagnostic errors further demonstrates a profound loss of trust.

Overall, key features emerging from these reviews are: **poor diagnostic accuracy**, leading to misidentification of problems and unnecessary repairs; **substandard repair quality**, resulting in vehicles breaking down soon after service and introduction of new issues (e.g., melted hoses, incorrect wiring); **a reported refusal to rectify errors**, which is a severe breach of professional conduct; and a **lack of thoroughness and attention to detail** in their inspection and repair processes. The communication from the shop, as described in the reviews, appears to be characterized by excuses rather than genuine problem-solving or accountability. The customer's frustration about "wasted" time and money, and the impact on daily life (e.g., having to be towed repeatedly, not being able to focus on family/hobbies), clearly indicates a deeply unsatisfactory customer experience.

Regarding promotional information, in light of the highly critical and detailed customer feedback, any traditional promotional efforts by Payless Auto and Collision would likely be overshadowed by their reported operational deficiencies. Typically, "Auto Repair Stations" promote themselves by highlighting: **competitive pricing, experienced technicians, warranties on parts and labor, quick turnaround times, and positive customer testimonials**. They might also offer **free diagnostic checks (though the reviews suggest their diagnostics are a weakness), seasonal discounts, or online appointment scheduling**. However, for Payless Auto and Collision, the most urgent "promotional" activity would need to be an internal transformation focused on improving their diagnostic capabilities, quality control, technician training, and, most importantly, their customer service and accountability. Without addressing the fundamental issues of incorrect diagnoses, faulty repairs, and a refusal to correct mistakes, any external marketing efforts would likely be ineffective and lead to further negative experiences, as indicated by the "Don't do business here!!!" sentiment in a previous example of a negative review.

In conclusion, Payless Auto and Collision, located at 1810 12th St SE, Salem, OR 97302, USA, and reachable at (503) 581-2079 or +1 503-581-2079, operates as an "Auto Repair Station." Based on the provided customer reviews, the business appears to face significant challenges related to diagnostic accuracy, the quality of its repairs, and its accountability for mistakes. Customers report repeated failures, introduction of new problems, and a refusal to correct errors, leading to wasted time, money, and considerable frustration. For local users in Salem, OR, seeking auto repair or collision services, the available information indicates a need for extreme caution and thorough consideration when contemplating engaging with this establishment.