Consuming Interests: Don't get ripped off by your auto mechanic - News and tips for consumers on shopping, saving money, deals and credit

While I was trying to meet my Sunday column deadline today, I got this urgent e-mail from Reader Rodney:

Hello, I'm in an auto repair shop and I'm very very concerned. The owner started alot of repairs on his own without any authorization at all. The vehicle is there because it wouldn't start. An injector pump was sent out and completed and when I asked the price for it; he told me he had no idea! When I pressed him that he must at least have a ballpark figure; he replied that they range from $500 to $12,000!!! Of course I should have never let that go. When I pressed for an estimate; he told me that he would know more later in the week. This guy scares me to death and I have a lot of experience with auto repair facilities. Isn'it there al law that work has to be athorized by the customer? Thank you very much.

Normally, when trying to meet a deadline, I avoid all e-mails. But Rodney sounded pretty desperate so I quickly e-mailed him back some information from the Maryland Attorney General's Web site. It's useful so I thought I'd share it with the rest of you, too, in case you find yourself in a similar situation.

Under Maryland law:

You're entitled to a written estimate for all repairs costing more than $50 and you can't be charged more than 10% over the written estimate without your consent. If the mechanic finds that the repair will cost more than 10% than the estimate, or that additional repairs are needed, the shop must contact you to get your authorization.

You also can't be charged for repairs you didn't authorize. Before signing a repair order, read it carefully. Ask for clarification of any item you don't understand.

Also, the AG's Office says, the invoice you receive should list all work performed, all parts supplied and any surcharges. Any used, rebuilt or reconditioned parts must be identified. Keep your invoice as a record. It may be useful if you need to return to the shop because the repairs weren't satisfactory.

Those records will come in handy should you need to file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division or file suit against the shop in court.

Know your rights.

(Sun Photographer Lloyd Fox)

Comments

yeah, good advice. ecarservices.com gives free professional advice and online estimates of what some car repair should cost ballpark.

Posted by: sae | August 1, 2008 7:52 PM

Class Action Lawsuit for Authorized Dealers Against Sprint/Nextel

I am one of the most well-known wireless leaders in Northern California providing wireless solutions for corporate accounts. The difference between my company and everyone else is my exceptional vision and leadership especially on the B2B side. Without sacrificing quality, integrity, and customer service, my abilities have gained me the knowledge and expertise to win numerous awards including top seller award for Northern California from a variety of wireless carriers. Having said that, I was approached by Nextel in 2002 to become one of their B2B Authorized Representatives as a result of my success from previous years. With my exceeding success through the B2B channel, Nextel approached me to do a joint venture on launching new retail locations in the Northern California market since there was no strong retail presence. With knowledge, experience, and expertise I put together one of the most dynamic teams of highly motivated and well qualified communication consultants. In 2003, my ex-colleague and dear friend was invited to join in this new vision. I launched eight locations in Northern California and I was invited to launch new locations in Arizona, Colorado, and Minnesota. In 2005, when the merger with Sprint occurred, the new management team: Mark Sadighian, Paul Harris, and Dennis McSweeney no longer shared the vision that Nextel had with my company. At the same time I found out that my partner was embezzling money and started a new wireless company with another carrier. When I approached Mark Sadighian with my new found news, the advise that I received was to separate our partnership and for me to start a new company under a new name. I was granted an exclusive dealer contract with Sprint/Nextel and their service center. Two months into my new company, I submitted six new retail locations that were denied to me for expansion, but at the same time were handed to someone else. Sprint/Nextel set me up for failure, after I invested hundred of thousands of dollars into the new company. Sprint/Nextel decided at that point not to support me in my visions, ideas, and ventures. As a result, I am seeking other dealers that have had a similar experience as me for a class action lawsuit. Before I posted my story online, I requested the immediate assistance from the CEO of Sprint, Daniel Hesse. He never responded to any of my emails, and at this point left me with no choice, but to put together a class action lawsuit for Authorized Dealers. I will not stop until my losses are compensated. If you are interested in contacting me with any questions, concerns, or to assist me in participating in this class action lawsuit please email me at: sprintactionlawsuit@gmail.com or visit www.nextel.bz

Posted by: Class Action Lawsuit for Authorized Dealers Against Sprint/Nextel | November 4, 2008 2:06 AM