On Friday Morning, May 29, I brought my 2009 Escape Hybrid in to have new tires put on, purchased through Tire Rack. I was told that as a new customer, it was policy that they look over my entire vehicle. I wasn't asked. I wasn't born yesterday, so I suspected a fishing expedition, especially as the shop wasn't busy, and it was an older vehicle with high mileage. I resolved then that I would have nothing done; if anything was found I'd have my regular mechanic check it out. Sure enough, the first pitch was "dark brake fluid," a lead into bleeding the brakes. I declined. Next, after some waiting, they told me I needed new shocks and struts. That was plausible, because of the vehicle's age and many rough roads in the area. They gave me a written estimate of about $1600. Shortly thereafter, they enacted a drama in front of me where the mechanic thought of a more efficient way to install them, and presented a new written estimate that would save me $200! So customer-oriented! After about 90 minutes, just to get out of there, I said would return to have the front end work done with alignment. But they did put on my new tires! Soon afterward I took the vehicle into my regular mechanic, who I've used for years and trust completely. I asked them to do the alignment and check my shocks and struts, and provide a quote if replacement was needed. I said nothing about CT & A's claim. Guess what? Suspension was OK! (And they did the alignment.) I've had my mechanic service the vehicle twice since May, and both times they inspected the brake fluid and did not recommend replacing it. I expect CT & A's owner to stand by his mechanic. Fair enough. I'll stand by mine.