Car Repair—Consumer Tips To Deciphering the Bill

Your car breaks down. You have to get it repaired. If you do not know anything about cars, it is important to find a mechanic you trust.

There is some basic knowledge that you can still be aware of when you talk to the mechanic.

Repair Charges

Labor rates:

Ask the shop if they charge a flat hourly rate for labor or actual time. Most charge a flat rate, for example, a normal break job may take 3 hours, so they charge you for 3 hours of time.  Unfortunately, if the job only takes 2 hours, you are still charged for 3.

Estimates:

If you have a complicated repair or are unsure, ask for a written estimate and get a second opinion.  A written estimate should include the problem areas, the repairs needed, the parts needed and the labor charges.

Please note that state law also requires them to contact you for approval if the charges exceed a certain amount.  For example, if they quote you 1,000 dollars and as they are working, the job ends up becoming 1,200 dollars, the mechanic is required to contact you for approval to continue the job for the 1,200 dollar amount.

Parts:

There are various types of parts depending on the mechanic, you may have an option to get new parts, re-manufactured parts or salvage parts.  So what is the difference?

• New:  These can come right from the manufacturer, guaranteeing the right parts
• Rebuilt: Restored to a working condition.
• Salvage: Used parts that have not been altered or rebuilt, only good for some parts

Now that you have got the repairs done, you should always leave there with a complete receipt.  It should have each repair performed, parts used, costs of parts, costs of labor and you can also get any parts back.  For example, if they replace your hubcaps, they have to give you the old ones (not that you would want them, but state law requires they be available, if you do).

No Contracts!

Additionally, be aware of service contracts.  This is usually on top of the repair prices and may be given by the manufacturer or the dealers or other companies.  You should consider the price and coverage before you buy a service contact.  For example, what is covered by the contact, how much is the extra coverage, how long does the extra coverage work and is this extra coverage really necessary?  Again, if you just bought new hubcaps, you might not need an extra service contact.

Fighting it Out

Finally, what if there is a dispute over price?  As with all major purchases, take notes.  Remember the following:

• What was the estimate?
• Who did the estimate?
• Did you ever talk to the shop owner when you got an estimate?
• Get names of people you speak with
• Document important dates and times

If you are being charged unfairly, start with speaking with the manager.  If you are not successful, you should research if there is a higher owner or corporate entity.  If not, you can contact the state Attorney General or the Better Business Bureau to file a complaint.