KAR KARE

For the initial work (everything but the truck shell) I was given a 2-4 week completion time, though to my shame I did not write into the contract a completion time limit. After 8 months of waiting, literally hundreds of phone calls, finding my truck - with custom wheels - parked in an unsecured area behind his shop in pieces (see photo), and many excuses, I received my truck with a several paint runs, molding not attached properly, paint too light in some areas, and the TOYOTA tailgate lettering off center.  The body work was acceptable but not excellent (I could see sanding marks in one spot).  About this time, by chance, I spoke with another Kar Kare customer with a very similar experience.

I received my truck shell in July 2011, again after many excuses, many phone calls, and much frustration.  At the time I contracted for the truck shell I was told one was immediately available for purchase, though it was not. When the truck shell was purchased a few months later via Kar Kare it was the wrong shape and thus would not fit the truck. The shell had to be modified to fit, the paint would not adhere properly to one part of the shell (later fixed), etc.

Kare Kar is a one person/owner operation. At least ninety five percent of my calls went directly to voice mail. A few times I had to warn the owner I would sue and only then would I get a call back. Kar Kare prices are very competitive, but the business ethics - at least in my case and one other customer - were horrendous. In May of 2011 I found it necessary to file a case in small claims court to get the work completed, this after my calls again went unanswered. Even with a court order for Kar Kare to fix the paint problems and deliver the shell, that work was not completed until after the time allowed in the judgement and without all the parts for which I paid. I have never been so frustrated and angry with a business!

If you contract with Kar Kare insist on visiting the work location first. Expect to see a shop in disarray.  Also, if you contract for work with Kar Kare, it is a MUST to have in the written contract a clause for time limits and penalties if the time limit is not met. But even so be very wary!  I cannot recommend contracting with Kar Kare even with special contract provisions. If a problem arises you'll likely not be satisfied with the problem resolution. Neither should you be mislead by the photo album of previous work.