Originally Posted by
Wanderer
Just be upfront by telling them (worst case scenario) how much it will cost to really make a permanent repair of the problem. Make it clear that this is an ESTIMATE, and could possibly be more, or might be less.
Since liability arises, let them know that you will not make a less than appropriate repair.
Be up front with estimates of scheduling and time.
Then, let them decide!
Most people will come back to an honest, and competent repair shop.
As was said before, minor tweaks do a lot for customer satisfaction and goodwill. An always empty, portable, lift is worth it's weight in gold for this.
AND! If the cost of repairs look like they are going to exceed the value of the bike, get some money (at least enough to cover the cost of needed repair parts) up front. You haven't accomplished anything until the money is in the drawer and the bike is out the door. Lots of people will authorize expensive repairs for a POS bike but you may never see them again.