We’ve all had a frustrating experience with a mechanic at some point—whether it’s a surprise fee, a longer-than-expected wait, or a repair that didn’t quite fix the problem. It’s the kind of situation that can test anyone’s patience and linger in your memory long after the car leaves the shop.
But one Australian driver’s recent outburst over a $12,000 repair bill has sparked a heated debate online, with many questioning whether his anger is justified—or if he’s simply barking up the wrong tree. The video capturing the moment has made its rounds on social media, drawing a wide range of opinions from viewers.
The incident, which has since gone viral, shows a man storming into a mechanic’s workshop to confront staff over what he claims is an outrageous repair bill for his Mazda CX-5 Diesel. According to the man, the cost of the repairs was nearly as much as what he originally paid for the car.
And he didn’t hold back. ‘This is going on social media, bro,’ he warned as he filmed the encounter, despite staff asking him to stop recording. ‘It’s another fail, another $12,000 of fails.’
The man claimed he was promised a 50,000km warranty on the engine work, but after 14 weeks in the shop, the car still wasn’t running properly. He alleged that the alternator failed shortly after the engine was replaced—and he wasn’t happy about it.
‘Where’s the alternator that came out of it?’ he demanded. ‘That’s f***ing evidence, bro. I told you I wanted that, I put it on email.’ The confrontation escalated when a staff member tried to take the man’s phone, resulting in a brief physical scuffle. ‘Give me my f***ing phone,’ the man shouted, before storming out of the shop.
But while the man’s frustration is understandable—no one wants to fork out thousands for a car that still doesn’t work—not everyone is siding with him.
The video has divided viewers, with some sympathising with the man’s situation, while others criticised his aggressive approach. ‘No need to behave like that,’ one commenter wrote. ‘The disputes tribunal is the correct path. You also have MTA mediation. There are systems in place.’
Another added: ‘Wait, so they replaced your engine and then the alternator failed? Sorry to say bro, but you’re in the wrong in this situation.’
This incident has certainly divided opinion online, with some backing the driver’s frustration and others questioning the way it was handled. It’s one of those scenarios where perspective makes all the difference, and there’s plenty of room for different takes.
Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation—facing a tricky repair bill or a customer service issue that didn’t go to plan? How did you handle it?
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Only ever struck this problem with dealer repairs. Dealers seem to think they have the right to charge massive amounts of money for most repair work since they claim to be the experts.
I found a reliable and honest local mechanical shop who were happy to explain what the car needed and shop around for the lowest price for parts or even let you find the part yourself which I have done online and then they fit it.
I have saved thousands since doing this as the quoted cost for the same repair has been up to 80% less than the dealer quote by using my local repairer.
I have a local mechanical workshop that services my 1909 SUV ever since the warranty expired. They do a great job looking after the car with 3 monthly servicing plus replacing parts when required. The vehicle has now done 220,000 kms and the mechanics say there are many more left in the car. They know the car inside out.
Wow,,, a 1909 suv and it’s done only 220,000s?