Florida Consumer E-Newsletter - March 2006
A Message From the Commissioner...
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Your automobile is one of your most important investments. No matter what you drive -- sports car, family sedan, pick-up, or minivan -- when you go in for repairs or service, you want the repairs to be done correctly and for a reasonable price. Like yourself, your car requires the highest quality professional care to have a long and happy life. The Florida Department of |
Sincerely, |
Motor Vehicle Repair
Most motor vehicle repair shops are reputable and willing to help you in determining the proper care for your vehicle. Keep these guidelines in mind when taking your automobile in for repairs:
Before Repairs
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Start shopping for a repair shop before you need one. You can make a better decision when you are not rushed or in a panic. Don't just drop off your vehicle at the nearest shop and hope for the best. Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. Even in this high-tech era, old fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is still valuable.
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Read your owner's manual. Become familiar with your vehicle and follow the manufacturer's suggested service schedule. Make sure the facility you choose will honor your vehicle’s warranty.
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The cheapest automobile repair is not always the least expensive repair. Saving a few dollars and not having your vehicle repaired properly will end up costing you more.
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Call the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352). Ask if the repair shop is registered and if any complaints have been filed against the facility. If complaints are on file, ask how the complaints were resolved.
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If you are unsure you need a repair, get a second opinion – particularly if you don't think there is anything wrong and the suggested repair is expensive.
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Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, AAA Approved Auto Repair status, customer service awards, etc. Look for evidence of qualified technicians, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and ASE certifications, a national standard of technician competence. Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own. Also check for modern equipment in the service bays.
Once You’ve Selected a Motor Vehicle Repair Shop
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BEFORE you arrange to have any repairs made, ask how the shop prices are estimated. Some shops charge a flat rate for labor on repairs while others may charge for labor based on the type of work preformed.
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If the repair work will cost more than $100, the repair shop MUST give you the option of:
1. Requesting a written estimate;
2. Being notified by the shop if the repair exceeds an amount you specify; or
3. Not requiring a written estimate at all.
WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU ALWAYS OBTAIN AN ESTIMATE!
You must sign and date one of the above options. Motor vehicle repair shops cannot force you to waive your right to an estimate. -
When a written estimate is requested you must be given a copy. The repair shop must then get your approval before exceeding the repair cost by more than $10 or 10 percent, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $50. Be sure to give them a telephone number where you can be reached.
After Repairs
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Check the repair invoice carefully. Make sure you understand the work that was performed and what you are paying for. Keep a copy of all work orders and receipts and get all guarantees or warranties in writing.
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Make sure the repair invoice includes: date and odometer reading, description of work performed, labor, parts and other merchandise costs, nature of parts (new, used, rebuilt, etc.), warranty (if applicable) and the registration number of the business (located on the certificate issued by the Department) identifying their shop.
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Reward good service with repeat business. It is mutually beneficial to you and the shop owner to establish a relationship.
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If the service was not all you expected, don't rush to another shop. Discuss the problem with the service manager, owner or president of the company. Give the business a chance to resolve the problem. Reputable shops value customer feedback and will make a sincere effort to keep your business. If you do not receive satisfaction, contact the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352).
Remember, we're here for you. Our Consumer Hotline: calling within Florida 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352), outside of Florida 850-488-2221, ¡Español! 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832), will answer any questions you may have about motor vehicle repair in the State of Florida. You can also visit us online.
Additional Resources
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Auto Repair: Be A Winner: Before you bring your vehicle into the service shop, make sure you know your rights. Review this handy pamphlet that outlines the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act so you understand your rights as a Florida consumer. (¡Español!)
Buy/Lease a New Car, How to: (Brochure) There is nothing more tempting that buying a brand new car. If you are ready to purchase your next vehicle, make sure to review this information first! It provides an overview of potential problems that you might face and defines dealership terminology.
Buy a Used Car, How to: (Brochure) Buying a vehicle can be a difficult task. Before you begin your search for a used car, review this information. It will give you some tips on things to look for when test driving and parts to examine before making a purchase. (¡Español!)
Motor Vehicle Repair Advisory Council
The Motor Vehicle Repair Advisory Council was created to advise and assist the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in carrying out and reviewing the rules relating to the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act. These rules are adopted by the Department and the Council advises the Department on matters relating to educational grants, advancements in industry standards and practices, and other issues that require technical expertise and consultation or that promise better consumer protection in the motor vehicle repair industry.
The links below are for your information only. The goal of the Division of Consumer Services is to provide additional information to consumers. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services does not review or confirm these sites for accuracy.
Collision Repair Basics - autobodyonline.com
This information is provided as a service to better educate consumers on the basics of collision repair. Let's face it, how many of you really know all that much about collision repair (other than what your brother-in-law tells you)? That's just what we thought. At this site you will find some additional links to help for an your way to auto repair success!
Federal Citizen Information Center
Information about automobile repair and a variety of other consumer related topics.
