What to do if You are Dissatisfied With Car Repair

If you got ripped off on your most recent car repair you do have some options. The first is to accept it, move on, and find a better mechanic. This is a lesson most people have to learn at least once in their lives, and hopefully you didn't sink too much money into it. However, if you feel wronged by a garage or mechanic you have trusted for several years and have been a loyal customer, than you should take a stand and complain.

When you discover that something has gone wrong with the job, it can be an extremely frustrating moment. Many people become defensive and angry, venting all of their feelings out on the supposed "scammer." It is important not to jump to conclusions, especially if you have had a solid customer relationship with a mechanic. It isn't uncommon for a replacement part, even new, to have a defect that may be the culprit for any issues. Or perhaps there was a diagnostics mistake and another issue was overlooked. Whatever the reason may be, you won't know immediately. So it's crucial to calm down and think before irrationally confronting the shop.

When you make your initial complaint, call or bring your vehicle back in as soon as possible. Remember that it may not be possible for them to look at it that instant, but they should make it a priority to handle your complaint as timely as possible, especially if the problem poses a safety hazard or prevents you from driving. If you keep driving for several weeks before bringing up any complaints, you are reducing their obligations to correct the problem free of charge as you may have greatly aggravated it.

If there is a manager of the shop, ask to speak directly with him. Explain the issue clearly and provide the report from the car repair. Ask nicely if they can take another look at your vehicle. Sometimes it will be a simple slipup of a loose part that is causing a frightening noise. Regardless, they should be willing to give your vehicle a complimentary quick inspection. If they seem unwilling, upset, or refuse to assist you, then it's time to take some further action. It is important, however, to not stop any payments made to the company. Certain states are very strict on laws regarding this, and it could result in repossession of the vehicle.

When all else fails, consult with an attorney. Sometimes the cost can be too cost prohibitive relative to the issue at hand, in which case, seek free legal advice that is often offered in communities. You will most likely be instructed to seek compensation via a civil case. The simple act of filing the paperwork may be enough to encourage the mechanic to compromise or make the situation right. Otherwise, start gathering evidence such as photographs with time and date stamps and an estimate from another car repair shop to back up your claims. It will be entirely up to you to prove that you were scammed.