My first and last time visiting Shields Automotive…read more
On July 28 2026, I took my 2012 Elantra in for fluid changes, general maintenance, and an inspection. It's 15-years old and only has 56000km. The following was my experience:
Their mechanic stated on the phone, and in person, that my entire engine had been replaced. - I'm the original owner, the engines never been replaced. He based this on seeing 3-red dots left behind by previous mechanics who worked on my car.
He said my brakes needed to be replaced, which were only 4-years old and had 7500km on them. - The brakes seemed fine. My last set lasted 7-years and 25000km.
Against my better judgment I had them replaced. - The emergency brake light came on during my drive home.
When I got home, I discovered grease left all over the side of the vehicle.
They didn't do what I would call a road test after installing the new brakes. - They drove the car back and fourth in the parking lot for about 20 feet. I have the dash-cam footage to prove it.
They told me the head-gasket was leaking and quoted me $1,498 to remove the engine, disassemble it, and have it re-machined. - They based this on seeing dried coolant on the engine block.
Their mechanic said that head-gasket issues are common with Hyundai/Kia engines. - After a second opinion, another mechanic told me they rarely see head-gasket issues on Hyundai/Kia engines.
Everything mentioned above was from one visit! They fixed the emergency brake light and cleaned the car the following day.
I got a second opinion from another garage regarding the head-gasket. They did a pressure test of the cooling system and identified the source of the coolant leak as a nearby hose. It was a simple fix, they found the head-gasket to be perfectly fine.
After I raised my concerns to Shields about everything they put me through, it took exactly one week for them to respond. They said: "Our technician's recommendations were based on the visual inspection and the diagnostic tools and equipment used at the time." I have no record showing that any equipment or tools were used to diagnose the leak.
They offered a free oil change, wheel alignment and safety inspection. I declined, as I didn't need an alignment, and given my experience, I wasn't comfortable having the same garage perform a safety inspection.
Instead I asked if they would reimburse me $301.50 for the brake parts, excluding labour, given my concerns about the necessity of the brake replacement. I was told my request would be discussed and that I would receive an answer. I never received a response.
I have invoices, photos, emails, and dash-cam footage supporting everything mentioned here. I'm sharing my experience so others can make an informed decision about where to have their vehicles serviced.
This was over six weeks, and really put me through the wringer. If there was one issue, okay, it happens. But seven!? In one visit! In my experience, save yourself a lot of pain and don't ever set foot in there.
