Legal Question in Consumer Law in Pennsylvania

Written Estimate

I had a car towed to a place for repair in Oct. So far I gave the guy 1,000. He told me I needed 1,600. to start the repairs and the total will be 2300. I no longer want the repairs done by this shop, I want to get my money back and tow the car out of his garage/establishment. Is the written estimate/receipt binding on my part?? No work has been done on the car and I was never given a date of completion. I am 17 and want to use the money to purchase a more reliable car. Can I get my money back?? I don't want to have to enter the courts with this person, I am friends with his daughter. Is there a clean way out of this contract?? Thank you, Jess--name removed--


Asked on 5/02/04, 4:47 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: Written Estimate

First of all, since you're 17, you can't enter into a valid contract. Because of this, and because no work has been done on the car, you should have a valid claim for your $1000. However, the shop owner may claim storage costs for your car to remain at the shop since October (remember, the deal was you needed 1600 to start repairs, and you haven't given him that amount). If it would get to court, his claim for storage would eat up your claim for your $1000.

If you ask him for your money back and he balks, offer him something for storage to get your car back from him. That may be the cleanest way out.

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Answered on 5/02/04, 5:09 pm


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