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When Things Go Wrong with Your Auto Mechanic

Local

Written by Shawna Currie

A friendly smile and a verbal agreement won't always get your vehicle fixed the right way. If you fell you've gotten the short end of the dip stick, you do have some options to rectify the problem and avoid paying too much. There is very little written in the law to protect you against a mechanic's scams. "Really the only thing specific to automotive repairs is thou shalt not roll back the odometer. That's the only thing in there," says Alan Bligh, Executive Director of the BBB Corpus Christi office. But, you do have rights and there are ways to try to right the wrong. Under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act it is illegal for a mechanic to -knowingly make a false or misleading statement about the need for parts -state that work has been done or parts replaced when that is not true -represent that goods are original or new, when in fact they are second-hand or refurbished -advertise goods or services with intent not to sell them as advertised The first rule of thumb when disputing charges, according to the BBB, is pay the bill, no matter what. If the amount you get charged is more than the original estimate, which should be in writing, have the mechanic write out the reason for the difference in cost. If you still feel cheated, tell the repairman you don't agree and hand him the payment. BBB officials say never stop payment on a check. "The vehicle may be repossessed rather quickly. The law states that if you don't pay your repair bill, the mechanic can keep your car until you do pay," says Bligh. Once you have made it clear you do not agree with the charges and have paid, you can then make a report to the BBB and/or file a small claims court lawsuit against the mechanic. If you feel the law has been broken and you can't resolve the issue with the mechanic, get a second opinion from another mechanic. Show him the itemized reciept and have an inspection done on the alleged repair. Get that opinion in writing and it gives you more leverage to negotiate a refund from the first guy. You can also file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General or the local District Attorney. For more information about mechanic scams and how to avoind them, click on the BBB website.