What to do if auto repair quoted me a price to repair but the repair didn’t work and the car won’t start at all now and they want to be paid?
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What to do if auto repair quoted me a price to repair but the repair didn’t work and the car won’t start at all now and they want to be paid?
Auto service charged $95 to diagnose car stalling problem. They said it was the wiring and would cost $625 to fix. Today they informed me, after the repair, they took it for a test drive and the engine locked up. Car won’t start at all. To diagnose, they want another 1543 to tear down the engine to determine the problem and no estimate on what it will actually cost to repair the car. They asked if I wanted to trade it in and buy a new car. I said no, I’ll just have it towed. They won’t release the car to me without the $625 payment. Can they hold my car?
Asked on August 29, 2012 under General Practice, Pennsylvania
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
I would first have a meeting with the owner of the automobile repair shop where you were given a specific quote to get your vehicle fixed which you agreed to. From what you have written about, the car is in worse shape now than before you brought the vehicle in.
If you cannot resolve the problem with your car to your satisfaction with the owner of the shop, I suggest that you consult with an attorney that practices in the area of automotive law and/or make a complaint against the repair shop with your state's bureau of automotive repairs. This entity fields consumer complaints with respect to licensed repair facilities in all of our states.
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