Legal Question in Business Law in Texas

What law(s) protect me from being charged for unathorized work?

i have had some brake problems that i've had worked on at a dealership. when i knew i was still having problems after $2,3oo just on brakes, the dealership offered to take care of a brake problem they missed twice. the service rep. clearly stated that the dealership would cover the cost of the malfunctioning item. they would later inform me that their were more items malfunctioning. they told me it needed the work done and left me with the impression that they were still taking care of it. when i went to pick up my vehicle they provided me with a bill for over $1,000. they're refusing to return the vehicle till they recieve payment. i did not sign a work order, they have no written authorization to repair my vehicle. i'm searching for the laws that require a written contract. they also threw my old parts away which i understand is illegal. they refuse to undo the work. i'd like to find the law that states that i have the rights to my old parts, given that they're still mine.


Asked on 12/18/01, 12:51 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Peter Bradie Bradie, Bradie & Bradie

Re: What law(s) protect me from being charged for unathorized work?

As a practical matter, you'd be better off paying the charge, getting your car, and then going after them in Small Claims. If you don't pay for your car, they'll start charging you $15 per day for storage, then sell the car for their garageman's lien. As it presently stands, you are on the wrong side of the law. Pay for your car (do NOT put a stop-payment on the check or your car will be gone in no time at all) and then dealership will be on the wrong side of the law for doing unathorized work.

Read more
Answered on 12/18/01, 1:11 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Business Law questions and answers in Texas