Zeagler Auto Service Inc

They are a bit pricey but after calling them about their charges, the owner told me they «go strictly by the book.» Interpretation: standard rates and hours for each repair as written by some mechanical guideline. The work was done quickly (so I got the bad end of that book. I paid for more hours than actual time spent). What really put the icing on the cake was how I witnessed them drive a business man to and from his destination, while I, as an older white woman from out of state had to find a taxi (1.5 hrs of waiting and $ 20 later, I got home) and then a bus back to the shop 6 miles from where I am staying (walking 2 miles of that stint in very cold weather). I stick out like a sore thumb in this area, but I found out the people on the bus were friendly regardless of our color differences (not so much where I live). Frankly, as much money as I was spending there and them knowing my situation, they could have driven me home for my own safety. Furthermore, I do not like dealing with the owner’s wife, who acts like I’m imposing on her time. I cringe having to deal with her. I still have one more repair but I think I can live without it being done here. I don’t have the heart to return to endure the smells of cat litter box, freshly pooped, in the waiting area after my tangle with the «transportation» issues.
They do decent work, so I think you can rest assured about your repairs, but no one is perfect, and they have a high volume of cars to repair, so speed is necessary. By the high defensive reaction of the owner, I think they pride themselves on their reputation and will try to honor all their repairs, but I can’t know that for sure. I live out of state and and can only cross my fingers, but the repairs I had are a necessary evil since we have a long drive back home.
Upon calling them back to get clarification on my repair charges and the ride situation, the owner first explained how they charge (by the book), but then got defensive about the ride thing, as if I was making it up or didn’t communicate my part. He really didn’t want my story, he just want a yes or no to «did you ask for a ride? If you don’t ask we can’t help you». So I told him Yes, I asked for a ride. You did? You asked for a ride? Who did you ask? Basically, he railroaded me to avoid knowing what transpired and dealing with the situation ethically and maturely and didn’t care about anything but if THAT specific question was asked as he wanted it asked (this is a well known ploy to people who’s brains stop working and the ego of immaturity takes over, yes, like they are lawyers in court). Well, if this counts as clarification, then yes. Here is the story he didn’t care to find out: I was there, at 8:00am, I told Scott I would wait for the car because I don’t have a ride and I don’t live here. Then he told me that the car wouldn’t be done until 5:00 — 5:30p (as he squinted to the tune of «it’s a long wait»). At which point I said, I don’t have a ride and no choice; I’m from out of town. He just stared at me, silently. I said that I guess I’ll figure it out on my own. Maybe he didn’t offer even a question of «how far do you life?» because I didn’t use the magic words with a proper question mark. Do I have to? Isn’t it obvious from our conversation? Not to mention I have explained this to him 2 other times, but I guess he’s got too much going on to remember me. I’ll give him that.
The owner wanted names of who I told I needed a ride (curtly) so he could fix the situation (and he was upset at this point, not at them, but me, clearly). So, I told him it was Scott (the other owner) is the one I dealt with because you weren’t around. He, again, got defensive saying he’s there everyday! So I said, let me clarify for you… you weren’t in the office area at the time. (Geesh, buddy. Breath in. Breath out.)
Maybe he’ll fix it, but what do I care? It does me no good at this point. I’m not going back, especially after the owner got visibly defensive and upset at me for asking dreaded straight honest questions and letting him know my personal dislike and effects of being treated carelessly (as seems to be the American way when dealing with businesses. They are either kissing up to you or assume the worst — it’s all messed up). I paid my bill, stop acting like I committed a crime against humanity! I want fair treatment too! And yes, I will say something and ask the important questions to my life as is my responsibility and freedom to do so! I just won’t re-​subject myself to further possible ill-​treatment or silent misjudgments by those that want to think in a box. They can return my parts.

I have never taken time to write a review, but this time I must because Zeagler’s deserves to be recognized as a rare and exceptional auto repair business. When I experienced car trouble I called Zeagler’s after my iPhone Siri identified this business in the Rosewood, Columbia area and the previous reviews were positive. I was accommodated on the day I called and the service could not have been better. The Zeaglers are honest, dependable, trustworthy, and very competent! My car was returned to me within hours and my anxiety was totally relieved! I am from Pittsburgh and arrived in Columbia just last week. I consider my experience at Zeaglers to be a good sign and a true example of Southern hospitality!
Thank you Zeagler’s!!!

Mr. Zeagler is honest, knowledgeable, reliable and fair.
He will find the real source of your problem and fix it right.
He never upsells you for more service than you need.
Zeagler’s shop is extremely clean and his employees are too. My car never has grease or dirt left behind after a service.
I almost hate to give him such a great review, because I don’t want him to get too busy for the same-​day service I’ve been getting.

Ralph Zeagler and his team have been looking after our sorry cars for at least 10 years. He runs a clean, serious workshop. He likes to get car back to you the same day. He is laconic and amusing. We trust him and his team completely. I know next to nothing about cars — I just like them to start and keep running but I know a good mechanic. I hope the business continues to thrive. Convenient location for Shandon dwellers.