I have such admiration for both of you ladies. You are both testaments to the innate strength that women draw upon.

Queen of escalation!! I love it!

"We'll see what happens but I've reported this to CSAA, State of CA Consumer Affairs, Dept of Corporartions and BBB. Any other ideas? "

How about AAA?

"Then I cc'd the letter to all of them TO the mechanic..called them and said who I've reported it to, what I want and that they have until my first coffee break on Monday to offer a refund or my next call is to my lawyer. "

It's amazing what a letter from a lawyer will do. When your steering went out, you placed yourself and others in danger. I'd have them compensate you not only 100% for the car repair, but also for your lost vacation days. It is clear that the shop screwed up. Stripped bolts don't just "happen" - and they can be drilled out fairly easily. Intake manifolds are big jobs, but not complicated.

These days, I just grab my wallet & go to the dealership. They are expensive, but as The Queen of Escalation-Desert Location - I can complain all the way up to Papa Toyota.

My helmet is off to you ladies.