For Release: July 5, 2006
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Email: jtmartin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
McDonnell Offers Summer Car Repair Advice
Tips for Consumers to Avoid Overcharges, Poor Workmanship on the Road
With summer vacation season kicking off in earnest the week of July 4th, Attorney General Bob McDonnell today advised motorists to become informed about potential automobile repair problems before hitting the road for summer vacation travel. Every year, Virginia consumers file auto repair fraud reports with the Attorney General’s Office and the Virginia Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA).
“The best way to avoid being defrauded is to be prepared. The more you know about your car, truck or van, the more likely you will be able to prevent repair problems,” said Attorney General McDonnell. “Know how your vehicle works and how to identify common problems. Also, select a reputable repair facility, ask questions and know your consumer rights.”
The Virginia Consumer Protection Act and the Automobile Repair Facilities Act prohibit deceptive practices in automobile repair. Automobile repair facilities and mechanics that mislead, deceive or make misrepresentations to consumers are subject to penalties. It is generally illegal for a repair facility to:
Refuse to provide a written estimate of parts and labor required, if requested.
Refuse to return most replaced auto parts, if requested.
Exceed a written estimate provided by more than 10% unless the additional work has been authorized by the customer.
Not provide a written invoice upon completion of repair work which indicates work performed, and the charges for parts and labor, separately stated, and which identifies any parts that are used, rebuilt or reconditioned.
Before you take your motor vehicle to an automobile repair facility, pay close attention to your car’s problem. Be specific in describing you car’s symptoms and tell the mechanic about any past repairs for similar trouble. Although you may not fully understand the technical terms, listen to the mechanic’s diagnosis carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand something.
When selecting an automobile repair facility or mechanic, ask for recommendations from your family, friends and/or others you trust. Look for a facility before you need one to avoid being rushed into a last-minute decision. Check the complaint history of the facility with the OCA, local consumer protection office and/or the Better Business Bureau.
If you do experience a problem, contact the auto repair facility where you had the repair work done. Most disputes can be settled quickly. However, if the facility refuses to correct the problem or answer your questions about the bill, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 1-800-451-1525, or the Virginia Office of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-552-9963.
