Auto repair shops — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency. Car rentals — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission. Auto loans or payments — File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Car warranty — Contact your state's attorney general. But, if you bought a used car from a private owner, the warranty may not be valid.
How do I file a complaint against a repair or body shop?
If you are looking to file a complaint against a repair or body shop, please report a problem with a DMV regulated automotive business. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulates all repair shops, inspection stations, dealers, vehicle dismantlers and other related businesses in New York State.
What to do if you have a complaint about a dealership?
If you don't get results, you can contact a state or federal government agency. If your complaint is about: Deceptive car ads or dealers — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission . Auto repair shops — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency.
What should I do if my auto repair shop repairs a problem?
The auto repair shop repaired a 'problem' that didn't actually need repairing. The mechanic caused a different problem through mechanical or autobody damage. Step One: Know your rights. You have the right to receive a written estimate; it may even be required by law. (Check your state’s regulations and licensing authority, if any.)
Where can I file a complaint about a used car?
Car Complaints. If you have a complaint about your car, file it with the dealer, lender, or manufacturer. If you don't get results, you can contact a state or federal government agency. If your complaint is about: Deceptive car ads or dealers — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission .
How do I file a complaint against an auto repair shop in NY?
Auto Repair ComplaintAgency: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.Division: Vehicle Safety Licensing Complaints.Phone Number: (518) 474-8943.Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:15 AM - 4:15 PM.Staff is available through the automated phone system during business hours.
Who regulates auto repair shops in California?
The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR)The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) licenses and regulates automotive repair dealers, Smog Check stations and technicians, and brake and lamp stations and adjusters. BAR also administers the Smog Check Program.
What to do if a mechanic is ripping you off?
How to Talk to Your MechanicDescribe the problem fully. Provide as much information as possible. ... Don't offer a diagnosis. Avoid saying what you think is causing the problem. ... Request a test drive. If the problem occurs only when the car is moving, ask the mechanic to accompany you on a test drive.Ask for evidence.
What happens if a mechanic is misdiagnosed?
PSA: If a shop misdiagnoses your car and makes a repair that fails to fix the problem, they're obligated to correct their mistake. Disclaimer: You HAVE to request and pay for diagnosis for this to be valid.
How do I sue a mechanic shop in California?
What are the steps to suing a mechanic in a California small claims court?Consider filing a complaint against a mechanic before suing in small claims. Learn more here.Prepare and file the lawsuit. Learn more.Notify ("serve") the mechanic you have sued. Learn more.Prepare for and attend the small claims hearing.
Do mechanics have to warranty their work in California?
A repair shop is not required by law to guarantee its work, but many shops do. If a guarantee or warranty is provided, it shall be in writing and a legible copy shall be delivered to the customer with the invoice itemizing the parts, components, and labor represented to be covered by such guarantee.
Do mechanics lie about brakes?
18 Mechanics Lie: The Brakes Are Bad However, a mechanic will often encourage the customer to replace everything when, in reality, simply cleaning the brake rotors can fix the issue. But because people are worried, they instantly pay for way more than they need to.
Can a garage keep my car if I refuse to pay?
If you are refusing to pay while you dispute the bill, the garage has the right to keep your vehicle until the debt is paid. If you need the vehicle back before you can settle the dispute, you should pay “under protest”.
What can you do if a garage damages your car?
If your car has been damaged while it was at the garage, you should negotiate for them to pay for the repair of the damage. It's best to point out the damage as quickly as possible, or you could be seen to have accepted what's happened. The maximum they're obliged to offer you is the cost of of the repair damage.
What is mechanical negligence?
Failure to completely repair damaged parts; Failing to identify obviously needed repairs that a mechanic acting with a reasonable standard of care would notice; or. Damaging one or more parts of the vehicle as the repairs are performed.
How do mechanics diagnose a problem?
Vibrations & Movements – one way to diagnose mechanical problems is to pay attention to how it feels when you drive it. You mechanic can take your vehicle for a test drive and feel for any strange movements or vibrations. If your vehicle shakes or vibrates there are a variety of causes.
Who regulates automotive industry?
As a Federal agency, NHTSA regulates the safety of motor vehicles and related equipment.
Do mechanics need a license in California?
Thankfully throughout the State of California, a good auto technician is not required to have a license to repair vehicles! However, just because there is no structured or national criteria does not mean virtually all technicians are equally skilled for a job in an automobile repair shop.
Do you need a mechanic license to open a shop in California?
Licensing Requirements for the Automotive Repair Industry Any automotive repair shop in the state of California must be registered with the B.A.R., and should be able to provide their licensing information to you upon request. Requiring the automotive repair shops to be registered and licensed provides accountability.
What is the California lemon law?
The California Lemon Law (Civ. Code, § 1793.2 et seq.) protects you when your vehicle is defective and cannot be repaired after a “reasonable” number of attempts. The Lemon Law applies to most new vehicles purchased or leased in California that are still under a manufacturer's new-vehicle warranty.
How to find a good auto repair shop?
Ideally, find a good auto repair shop BEFORE you run into problems. Ask people you trust, and whenever someone you know has their car repaired, ask if they thought the place did a good, honest job.
What to do if a repair shop holds your car?
If a repair shop is holding your car in lieu of a payment that you consider unjustified, you may be able to take out a Writ of Replevin . You can also ask us to copy your complaint to the appropriate regulators for a nominal charge.
What happens if you don't maintain your car?
If you don’t maintain your vehicle properly, it’s more likely to break down. Worse, you could void out your warranty. You don’t have to take your auto to the dealership for maintenance or repairs, but be sure to keep your receipts and use only reputable, knowledgeable mechanics. And check your vehicle’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals—for instance, if an oil change is recommended at 5,000 miles, ask the repair shop why they think you should get one at 3,000 miles. More frequent oil changes may be justified under certain circumstances.
What to do before flying off the handle?
Communication is key. Before you fly off the handle, ask the repair shop’s manager to explain the situation clearly and resolve misunderstandings on either side.
Do you have to get a written estimate for a car repair?
You have the right to receive a written estimate; it may even be required by law. (Check your state’s regulations and licensing authority, if any.) The estimate should specify that the shop must contact you if the repair will exceed the estimate by a certain amount. It should include your car's odometer reading.
How to file a complaint against a car dealer?
If you have a complaint about your car, file it with the dealer, lender, or manufacturer. If you don't get results, you can contact a state or federal government agency. If your complaint is about: 1 Deceptive car ads or dealers — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission . 2 Auto repair shops — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency. 3 Car rentals — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission. 4 Auto loans or payments — File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 5 Car warranty — Contact your state's attorney general. But, if you bought a used car from a private owner, the warranty may not be valid. 6 Safety of your car, child car seats, or tires — File a complaint with the Department of Transportation.
What to do if you are being deceived by car dealers?
Deceptive car ads or dealers — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission .
What agency to file a complaint with about car rentals?
Car rentals — File a complaint with your state consumer protection agency and the Federal Trade Commission.
Why do some agencies investigate complaints?
Some agencies will investigate your complaint. Others accept complaints so that they can file a case against the company in the future.
What are some examples of mechanics?
Examples include the ignition, brakes, engine, or transmission. Repair attempts — You have to give mechanics multiple chances to repair the problems. Number of days in the shop — Your car has to have been in the mechanic's shop for a significant number of days within a year.
Can you get a car warranty if you bought a used car?
Car warranty — Contact your state's attorney general. But, if you bought a used car from a private owner, the warranty may not be valid. Safety of your car, child car seats, or tires — File a complaint with the Department of Transportation. Some agencies will investigate your complaint.
Do you have a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They'll get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
Where to report unlicensed dealer in CT?
If you believe someone is operating an unlicensed dealer, repairer or recycler business, you should report all information in writing to the CT DMV's Dealer Enforcement Unit.
Who investigates Connecticut licensed dealers?
The Department of Motor Vehicles' Consumer Complaint Center investigates Connecticut-Licensed Dealers or Repair Shops for the following issues:
Do you send originals to a repair bill?
NOTE: It is essential that you include copies of all paperwork related to your complaint (e.g., warranty, invoice, repair bill, etc.). Please do not send the originals.
Does Connecticut license mechanics?
Misdiagnosis by the mechanic. (Connecticut does not license individual mechanics)
Is the DMV open?
DMV is open by appointment only. Return to our homepage to schedule an appointment or to view online services.
How to contact the DMV about a complaint?
4 If you have questions regarding a complaint you placed or the complaint process in general, contact the DMV Complaint Unit at 1-518-474-8943. Office hours are Monday - Friday, 8:15am - 4:15pm. Go to text reference.
How to file a complaint with the DMV?
If a satisfactory resolution is not reached and you wish to file a complaint, you must submit a Vehicle Safety Complaint Report (PDF) (VS-35) along with any supporting documents to the DMV Consumer & Facilities Services Complaint Unit. To submit electronically, download the complaint report available at the link above to your personal device. Attach and then email the completed report as well as any supporting documents to [email protected]. Please note that DMV staff will communicate with you through email.
What is a DMV regulated automotive business?
The DMV regulates all repair shops, inspection stations, dealers, junk and salvage vendors, and other automotive related businesses in New York State. 1
How long does it take for a CSR to resolve a complaint?
3. Depending on the complaint, this process could take several weeks to several months to resolve. 4.
What to do if you have a complaint against a dealer?
DMV advises all consumers who have a complaint against a dealer, inspection station, repair shop, or dismantler to make an attempt to resolve their complaint with the business manager. If they are not successful, they are advised to contact the DMV Consumer & Facilities Services Complaint Unit.
What happens if you accept a waiver for vehicle safety?
If the waiver is accepted, no hearing is required. If the offer is rejected, a hearing must be held.
What does the DMV do for consumers?
You must follow all consumer protection laws and regulations. DMV advises all consumers who have a complaint against a dealer, inspection station, repair shop, ...
How to avoid costly penalties, fines, and the loss of valuable customers?
avoid costly penalties, fines, and the loss of valuable customers by responding to all DMV inquiries in a timely manner
How to protect your business?
protect your business: keep a copy of all work orders in an easy-to-access location
How much did Ronaldo charge for her car?
Her car was in an accident and had a broken front axle: she took it to the nearest mechanic, Brighton Auto Clinic on Washington Street on the Brookline/Brighton line, where Ronaldo charged her $2,800 to fix it but did not in fact fix the broken caliper, which caused brake fluid to leak into the brake pads.
Do you need a complete story with the AG?
With the AG, you need a complete story, don’t forget the dates or times. Copy every paper.
Is the advice given to the original poster relevant?
That I and many others can read the poor advice given to the original poster is relevant.
What happens if a car repair shop ineffectively installs a car part?
If the car repair shop ineffectively installs a car part, mangles a safety feature, or makes the correct repairs, you have a case. Lack of or erroneous estimates – In most states, car repair shops are required by law to provide accurate estimates before working on a car.
What happens if a mechanic fails to follow the rules?
Illegal use of mechanic’s lien – If the car shop failed to follow the rules in filing a mechanic’s lien, you may sue the car repair shop or repossess your vehicle.
What to do if a mechanic says your car needs a replacement?
If the mechanic says your car requires a replacement part, ask to be shown which part needs replacement and use a mark or some means to differentiate it afterward. Always tell the mechanic that you want the old part back–this way you know the product was actually replaced. If you’re still mistrustful, you could always have the part looked at by another mechanic to be certain it was defective.
What to do when a mechanic diagnoses a problem?
When a mechanic provides a diagnosis of your car’s problem, ask questions. Make sure the diagnosis agrees with the symptoms. If your engine alert light is on, ask what causes that problem. Check temperature and oil pressure warning lights immediately. If you’re unsure, read your owner’s manual and don’t continue driving until you understand the warning’s significance.
What to do if a mechanic gets a misdiagnosis?
Make the mechanic warrant the initial repair. Even if it had been an honest misdiagnosis, the store should refund the sum of the initial repair or discount another one. If the mechanic receives the diagnosis wrong again, stop replacing components and replace the store.
How to avoid a mechanic rip off?
The best way to avoid a mechanic rip off is to find a mechanic you can trust. If you’re uncomfortable with the mechanic (or the number of repairs), feel free to leave. If you’re not certain, you could always get another opinion.
How to find a mechanic you can trust?
As you try to find a mechanic which you can trust, you ought to do your research so that you seem more educated to the mechanic. Visit an estimator so that you may have some idea of what your repairs should cost. Many people also like to understand what’s broken before they approve of these repairs. If you’re uncomfortable at any time, do not be afraid to go someplace else.
What to do if you feel like the mechanic is telling you that multiple things are wrong?
If you feel like the mechanic is telling you that multiple things are wrong or you feel like the estimate is too high, don’t be afraid to go somewhere else. A second opinion may help you see that the first mechanic was a ripoff and was going to charge you too much.
What to do if you don't trust a mechanic?
If you simply don’t trust your mechanic, it could be time to look around for another mechanic. You may also opt to find someone else if you’re concerned about the number of repairs which the mechanic is advocating.
