Car Repair Scams: What Would Jesus
Do?
In the process of writing about the auto repair industry and exposing car repair scams, I have
received some hate mail. Most of these state
that I’m crazy or paranoid, or
that I have no idea what I’m talking about. Others involve more general
ranting. One, however, stated that I was a scammer. Essentially, this person
thinks that I am using scam tactics to sell eBooks which expose scam tactics.
Here is a small sample of the facts that I have been
stating:
- 98% of all repair shops are abusing
car repair pricing guidelines
- Repair scams cost consumers an
estimated 40 billion dollars every year
- Repair shops are at the top of
consumer complaint lists every year
In response to this accusation, I wrote a nice long
e-mail explaining my position, my background, and how I obtained my
information. I also wrote how I can understand one’s skepticism of such claims,
and I referred to numerous articles and web sites for supporting
documentation.
I wasn’t able to send the e-mail, however, as the return
address was bogus. That’s frustrating! I have no qualms with accusations, but
please, stand up and make your case. Don’t leave a bag of dog crap on my porch,
ring the bell, and then run away.
I appreciate criticism. I understand its value. I’m
willing to listen. To call me a scammer just insults me and my mission…so what
would Jesus do?
To figure out what would Jesus do, I’m going to attempt
an analogy between my mission and Jesus’.
Jesus was making (to most first century Jews’ ears) outrageous claims. At the same
time, others were amazed at his work.
I have been making outrageous claims (to some peoples’ ears)
while at the same time impressing many others.
So far so good….
The Jews argued that Jesus was using the power of the
devil to perform his miracles (drive out demons, heal the sick…etc).
According to the “scammer” email, I am using the power
of scam tactics to expose car repair scams.
Before continuing, the obvious flaw in logic in the
above accusation must be pointed out. Jesus said it best: “A house divided
against itself cannot stand.”
So what would Jesus do about the prevalence of car repair
scams?
In short, Jesus would go for the throat. He’d point
directly at the injustice, and then pierce the heart of those charging people
excessive car repair prices.
Jesus’ example was followed by his right-hand man,
Peter. Peter also made “outrageous” claims such as "Jesus is the son of
God"…etc. He was irritating the hell out of the religious authorities. When
they told him to stop, he essentially said “Bite me...in a nice way.”
I too will be nice to my opposition.
To the skeptics, I would suggest that they heed the words of
Gamaliel, a first century Jew and teacher of the law—a man honored by all the
people. In response to the apostles’ “outrageous” claims, Gamaliel
said:
"…Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their
purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God,
you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting
against God."
Time will tell what the mission of RepairTrust will
produce. What is known is that since its inception it has saved car repair
customers tens of $1000’s of dollars in auto repair costs. Unless I receive
word, I think I’ll stay the course.
