Legal Question in Consumer Law in New York

I dropped my car off at a mechanic the other day because it was having transmission problems. I told the mechanic what was happening. My dad was with me and he filled out a form with just his name and my name and signed. We only asked the mechanic too find out what was wrong. The next day he called us and told us something was leaking and he was going to check out the inside to see how bad the damage would be but the price ranges from 1200-3400. I stopped by later that day to get something out of my car when he informed me that it was sent over to his dad's shop located a couple blocks away. I wasn't told my car was being moved to a different shop, so I went to the other shop and got what I needed out of my car and kept it moving. A few days later they called and told me the damage. They said my car was going to need a whole new transmission at the cost of 3400. They said I have to pay 650 if I don't want it done by them because they had to remove my whole transmission. I personally don't believe I need a new transmission considering my car has only 85000 miles and Showed no build up to breaking it only started acting strange that day before I brought it in. This place is also known for telling people they need work done when they don't. I went in the next day and asked what was wrong with my car and he seemed confused to see me. He showed me my transmission which was on the counter and told me what happened. I was asking questions and he kept saying well ur dads paying for it right? As in so why am I so concerned. He asked what I wanted to do and that he ordered the parts and they should arrive tomorrow morning. I told him I'll call him tomorrow morning and let him know if he should work on it or not while I contacted other places about the price. He said okay take my business card and let me know . I was at work the next morning so I didn't get a chance to call so I had my mom call at 11am to tell them not to work on it. They said that its to late and they already started. I never gave them permission. Neither did my parents but even if my parents did the car title n insurance is under my name and I'm 18 so I am the only one to give permission to work on my car right? My dad only signed the paper at his sons shop not his fathers. I didn't pick my car up yet but can I take him to court for this? I never gave him permission


Asked on 3/08/15, 7:36 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
SHAHRIAR KASHANIAN LAW OFFICES OF SHAHRIAR KASHANIAN, ESQ.,

You sound confused and confusing. Who did what where when at whose request? Who signed papers, talked to mechanic, green light to have the mechanic start the work, etc. One thing you should learn at this young age is this: your auto mechanic is as important to your livelihood as your primary care physician in this country. In most places, you are good as dead without a good mode of transportation. You should stick to one mechanic over time not to be taken for a ride. This is the most important lesson your father should have taught you. Now, it seems to me you had better come to an understanding with this mechanic or you will be on the hook for much more than you bargained for and he is unlikely to release the vehicle to you without a fight. Find out if you can retain an attorney for an hour to help you navigate this dilemma. Other wise your best bet is pay him and then sue him in small claims court. I hope the car is worth it.

Read more
Answered on 3/08/15, 8:18 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Consumer Law questions and answers in New York