Legal Question in Consumer Law in Utah

Auto Repair Dispute - What to do?

Auto repair shop informs me by phone of problems and associated costs for a car repair. I am told NOTHING more than an ''out the door'' cost estimate for repairs. In response, I say NOTHING more than ''ok'' and then am told that I will be notified within two days that automobile is ready for pick-up. Within TWO MINUTES of ended phone conversation, I call repair shop back to inform them that I definately want NOTHING done to car. I state I will pick up car and pay for the diagnostic test. Person with whom I'm speaking tells me that the person who originally called me has left the office to run an errand and that she cannot do anything to stop them from proceeding, but that she will pass along message. Within the next TEN minutes, receive another call from person who originally gave quote and was told that I would be responsible for the parts because he had already ordered them from his supplier and they were non-returnable. Went to repair shop to pick up car and pay for diagnostic. When I tell shop I'm not paying for any parts, shop calls police. Policeman arrives, tells me nothing criminal has happened, suggest small claims court and says that if I want to retrieve my car I have to pay for parts. I end up paying.


Asked on 9/05/07, 10:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Lundgren Alvin R. Lundgren, L.C.

Re: Auto Repair Dispute - What to do?

Sue the auto shop for the cost of the unapproved repairs. However, you have received some sort of benefit from the work, and the court may decide to not allow you a full recovery because of the value of the benefit conferred on you (the new parts). You may not have to pay the labor portion.

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Answered on 9/06/07, 10:14 am


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