How to Deal with Auto Repair Shops that Might be Trying to Rip You Off

In my last post, I mentioned a few pointers about avoiding rip-offs by auto repair shops. Avoidance is the key. But, no matter how you avoid these, there are still instances when you will find yourself in the middle of an uncomfortable situation with a mechanic who might be trying to rip you off. Here are some things that you can do:

1. If the mechanic tells you that he has replaced a part because it’s damaged, and is now asking you to pay a higher amount than you agreed on earlier, ask to see the original part that has been replaced. See if it is indeed damaged in any way. Don’t agree to pay the additional amount if the mechanic can’t show you the replaced part. The mechanic may have performed what is termed as a “phantom service” (more on this in one of my upcoming posts).
2. If a mechanic is charging you for a repair that he said he performed without you seeing it, ask a warranty from the mechanic. This way, you can save on your money when you encounter a premature problem with the part that has been supposedly fixed. Get the warranty in writing.
3. Don’t pay at once without checking the bill. If there are items that look suspicious, clarify them with the mechanic before paying for them. This will eradicate any feeling of distrust and dissatisfaction that you might have.
4. And of course, if a rip-off has happened and auto repair shops refuse to settle the problem with you, you can always complain to authorities and authorized bodies such as the Better Business Bureau.

By knowing all these, you won’t be left out feeling angry about a deception. You can instead channel your energies into doing the appropriate thing to do to deal with rip-offs by auto repair shops.