I fecently bought a part at Hobbie Auto Center, Oroville CA, which I the next day found I could not use. Traditionally, in the parts business there is toleration about accepting returns so long as they are in perfect condition. (Just as I in turn never thought of complaining that the part offered to me was in a torn open package).

However, on returning the part I was confronted with a 35% re-stocking fee. The clerk first said 30%--then revised it upward. In my opinion re-stocking fees are an abuse, Ten percent, even 20% is onerous. But with 35%, the intention is to be disrespectful to the customer. Therefore, I will not be a customer at Hobbie in either the Parts Department, the Service Department or the new or used car departments.

Anyone looking for a true indication of the merchant's attitude can draw his own conclusions. Let Hobbie go down and make room for merchants who can still treat the customer with respect.