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Can a mechanic hold your car if its unsafe?
Generally speaking, a mechanic doesn’t have the right to keep your car, no matter how unsafe the car is to drive. There is no law that says a mechanic can keep your car and require you to make repairs. This doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to take your car without getting the repairs.
What can I do if my mechanic messed up my car?
If you think that the mechanic intentionally damaged your vehicle as part of a scam, you may wish to contact the Office of the Attorney General in the state where the vehicle was repaired. This office is usually tasked with handling consumer concerns. Another option is to pursue the matter through small claims courts.
Can a mechanic keep your car?
The repairer can keep your vehicle until the invoice has been paid (possessory lien). Tip: When a repairer applies a lien the owner can sue them for the return of the vehicle. The repairer can keep the vehicle until the court orders its return to the owner.
Can a mechanic keep my car if i dont pay?
If you haven’t paid your mechanic for his repair services, then he’s well within his rights to refuse releasing your car. He is backed by law to keep your vehicle as collateral until you pay up or you both come to an agreement.
Can you sue a mechanic for not fixing your car?
You may not be satisfied with the work performed by the mechanic, or they may have engaged in some form of misconduct that damaged your vehicle. It may be tempting to pursue litigation against mechanics, but resolving a dispute through the court is often a costly and lengthy process.
Can I sue my mechanic for taking too long?
You would have to go to Small Claims or District Court, depending on the amount of money sued for. You will probably need another mechanic to look at the car and tell you how much it is going to cost to finish it. You would sue the mechanic for the cost to finish minus the $500 you haven’t paid him yet.
How long do mechanics take to fix a car?
If you’re talking about a simple procedure like an oil change, tire rotation, or tire replacement, you’re looking at anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour for the actual work to be completed.
How do I sue a mechanic for bad work?
Steps to Suing a Car Repair Shop
- Consider filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) before suing in small claims.
- Prepare the evidence, fill in the form, pay for them, and file the lawsuit.
- Notify the car repair shop that you have sued in writing.
- Attend the small claims hearing.
How long is too long for a mechanic?
If it’s taking more than 30 days, then you have a solid case against the dealership. According to the California lemon law, you are entitled to a replacement or refund if the dealership holds your car too long for repair.
Can you get a refund from a mechanic?
If your mechanic failed to repair the problem with your car, you may be able to get a refund. Car repairs have the potential for going wrong just as any financial transaction does – particularly if you’re arranging for repairs on your own rather than relying on your insurance company to pay for them.
Do you need a mechanic to repair a car?
Many car owners limit the use of dealership mechanics to just warranty-related repairs. General Repair Shops: While parts often cost more at service stations, as compared to dealerships, labor often is less expensive. However, finding a skilled, honest, and affordable mechanic can sometimes be tricky.
Can a mechanic keep your car for a long time?
So, depending on what needs to be done to your car, it IS possible that the mechanic might have your car for a very long time, which is NOT something they want.. a workshop with dead vehicles awaiting parts is a considerable time waster for all concerned.
What happens if a mechanic refuses to release your car?
And, in some states, they can even charge a daily impound cost. Since your car is taking up room in their garage, they can charge you additional fees. To avoid this, just pay your bill. However, the mechanic’s lien only applies to authorized repairs.
Can a car repair shop keep an unsafe car?
After inspecting the car, the mechanic finds that the brakes are leaking fluid. This prevents the brakes from engaging. It is only a matter of a few miles before the car will loose all braking. As you might guess, this is a very serious situation.