Legal Question in Consumer Law in Texas

Auto Mechanics Lien

I had my brakes fixed at a local oil change establishment. I was quoted a price of $140.00 if I needed roters. When I picked up my auto, I was charged $89.00 plus tax. I paid in cash and received a receipt. The next day, a man from the company called me and said that I knew it was to be $140.00 and if I didn't come in and pay the difference, he was filing a police report on me and taking possession of my car. Can they do that if I have a receipt for the $89.00? I thought maybe they found that I could get by without the roters when they went in to fix it. I am 60 years old and didn't have much money to start with. When I found out the charge was only $89.00, I bought extra groceries, now I don't have the money to pay them. What can I do?


Asked on 3/08/04, 10:43 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Peter Bradie Bradie, Bradie & Bradie

Re: Auto Mechanics Lien

If you have an invoice showing a charge of $89.00, and no new rotors shown, you explain that the $140 was the maximum if new rotors were required. Since they weren't, the $89 was a reasonable charge and you paid it.

Also explain that if they repo your car, you will sue them for conversion and punitive damages for wrongful repossession. You paid what you were supposed to pay.

I would also report them to the Better Business Bureau, and file a complaint with the Consumer Fraud Div. of the state's Attorney General's Office.

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Answered on 3/08/04, 10:51 am


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