Legal Question in Personal Injury in California

Mechanics Charging More Than Priced

I sent my transmission for a sandrail to be fixed. In the coversation it was agreed to be $1,000.00. There was no contracts. The mechanic now wants $1,800.00 for the transmission. There was no discussion about the increase amount. What rights do I have? The mechanic has a business. I am getting ripped off. Please help.


Asked on 3/29/05, 10:41 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Mechanics Charging More Than Priced

Verbal agreements are hard to prove. In the future, be sure and get everything in writing. California's auto repair law requires that you be given a written estimate. I am not sure whether this applies to transmissions not installed in vehicles (I cannot tell by reading your question whether the transmission was or was not installed in a vehicle when you took it in.) You might be able to get some help from the California State Bureau of Auto Repair. Learn more at www.autorepair.ca.gov . If that doesn't work, you can take them to small claims court, no lawyers required (or allowed). The library has books on how to do this, or the courthouse small claims advisor could possibly help you. Good luck.

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Answered on 3/30/05, 8:53 pm


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