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Automobile repairs not authorized by me

Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 10/28/2010 - 09:42
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I have a car that has over 100k miles on it. I took it to a mechanic in my town for a tuneup and oil change but the next day the engine was not running rights and a light came on for engine repair. So I took it back to the mechanic and told him to fix it. When I picked it up that night he told me the repair was $300 and that I would have to pay that too. I asked him what he did and he said something like he had to adjust something and took a long time. Very vague. So I had to pay the $300 but now I want to get it back because I think this guy is a crook and that he probably messed things up while doing the repairs in the first place. What can I do?

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Unauthorized car repairs

Submitted by The Editor on Thu, 10/28/2010 - 12:14.

Under certain Massachusetts regulations (940 CMR 5.05 (3)) you are entitled to a written estimate before any work is done on your car.  The estimate must spell out the parts and labor required to make the repair.  Also, under 940 CMR 5.05(9), you are entitled to an itemized bill.  At a minimum, I would talk to the mechanic and ask him for an itemized bill so you know what he is claiming to have done to your automobile.  If you are not satisfied with that information, or if you believe the repair was necessitated by some negligent act on the part of the mechanic during the initial tune-up, and the mechanic will not return your money, then you will need to consider sending a 30 day demand letter.   The beauty of the demand letter is that it forces the mechanic to respond to your complaint or face the possibility of triple damages plus attorney's fees.  Because there is the possibility of recovering your attorney's fees, you may want to consult a MA consumer protection lawyer to see if you can get some help in this matter.  Good luck. 

Consumer Protection Law

Submitted by lisa99 on Thu, 11/04/2010 - 12:02.

I agree you can go consumer protection law way by writing a 30 day demand, certify mailing the letter so you have proof you sent it and see if the Repair guy responds. Another way is to take him to small claims court by filing in small claims court you go to the court which districts where you live and get the forms apaya small fee and file the case and you will receive a court date for both of you to appear. With small claims you can only sue up to two thousand dollars. Lisa99 Paralegal

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