Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Additional SUV Repairs

I was in a freeway roll over accident and took my SUV(no insurance) for repairs at a local shop that was recomemded, the owner told me not to worry that he had worked on SUVs and that my car would be in good working conditions in 4 months the total cost was 8,000.00.

It took my 10 months to get my SUV back and it is not running at all, I took it to a shop and was told that the SUV has screws missing throught the body, the electrical system does not work,the car is still dented and the leather interior is cracked and dirty.

I was basicly told that I still have about 4 thousand worth of work on my SUV.

I have already tried talking with the owner only to be told that there is nothing I can do my receipts do not have anything written in them that states mechanical or electrical repair and that in court verbal agreements will not be of much good.

I would never had agreed to repairs that turned out to be around 10,000.00 for only body work

I would have just bought a new car with that money

I need help, What can I do?


Asked on 7/21/02, 9:58 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Alvin Tenner Law Office of Alvin G. Tenner

Re: Additional SUV Repairs

You do have a case. You should send me copies of all documents, I will review and then advise. Be sure to include all your phone numbers and address. No charge to review

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Answered on 7/22/02, 10:32 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Additional SUV Repairs

Your only recourse appears to be to sue the shop for refund of some of the amount paid, if you can show overcharge for the work done.

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Answered on 7/22/02, 1:11 pm
Martin Lathrop Russakow, Ryan & Johnson

Re: Additional SUV Repairs

You definately have a case. For simplicity, you might want to consider a small claims case eventhough you may be over the limit depending on the difference between what they did and the money you paid, you can still sue for the maximum. Additionally, you can put heat on this unethical character by making a complaint with the state auto repair licensing board and other business review organizations.

Good luck and feel free to contact if you have any additional questions-Martin

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Answered on 7/23/02, 5:32 pm


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