LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — We hear a lot about cybercrime, but scams can, and do, happen face-to-face. And car repair ripoffs are among the most reported.
AARP warns, sometimes mechanics want to do work that goes beyond what carmakers recommend. They may add or replace fluids to drive up costs, or they may push you towards after-market upgrades you just don’t need. Other times, disreputable shops charge you for original equipment while using knockoff parts that may not even meet safety requirements.
Experts say knowing your car, truck, or SUV is the best way to beat repair shop ripoffs. Consult your car’s manual for any questions. Also, check online reviews before selecting a service center or garage. You might also consider taking the shop for a test drive. Have it do small jobs to see if you’re satisfied before booking something bigger and more costly. And, if it’s a really big job, get a second opinion; after all, it is your car’s health, and you want it to run for a long time.
Be sure to get everything in writing, including a details description of the repairs and the price broken down into parts and labor. Finally, if you ever feel uncomfortable with any aspect of the repair process, don’t be afraid to drive away.
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