Automotive/Bike Repairs FAQs
Q: I took my car in for repairs. While it was at the garage, the car was broken into and my stereo was stolen. Is the garage responsible for replacing my stereo?
A: When you take your car to a garage for repairs, the garage must take reasonable care of it. This is known as the law of bailment. When goods are lost or damaged, the law assumes that the bailee (the garage) has not taken care of them. In this case the garage is responsible unless it can prove that the damage or theft was caused through no fault on its part.
The garage may attempt to restrict your legal rights by referring to a sign excluding loss or damage to cars in its possession. They cannot deny liability unless it is proven that they did not exercise any less reasonable care than the bailor (owner of the car) would have if the car had been in his possession.
Q: Can an automotive repair service keep my vehicle if I dispute my bill?
A: Yes, they can. It is called putting a lien on your vehicle. It is the right to hold another person's property until a debt is paid. To avoid this happening again, establish from the beginning exactly what you are contracting a service provider to do. Be specific in your request and inquire as to the cost of the service. Make sure you ask that they call you in case extra parts or additional service is required.
Q: I am having a problem with my car. I keep taking it in, but they either do not have the parts in stock or they have not fixed my car properly. The mechanic and service manager have not been very helpful. What can I do?
A: If you have not received satisfaction from the frontline people, then lodge a complaint with the customer service representative and/or the general manager. Follow the steps outlined in the section: “How do I file a complaint against a business or contractor”.