Beware Auto Repair Scams

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Unless you’re a mechanic yourself or a self-professed expert on cars, you likely don’t know that much about the inner workings of your car. This can make you vulnerable to falling for an auto repair scam, which can be challenging for the untrained eye to spot.

Here’s what you need to know about auto repair scams, and how to keep yourself from falling victim.

How auto repair scams play out

Auto repair scams can take many forms, but they generally follow a similar pattern. Here are a few common scenarios:

- The mystery problem scam. You take your car in for a simple issue, like an oil change or tire rotation and the mechanic “discovers” a more serious, often vague problem that requires immediate attention. They might claim that your car has a transmission issue, engine failure or another costly problem, pressuring you to authorize expensive repairs on the spot.

The bait and switch scam. Here, a repair shop advertises a low price for a common service, like brake replacement or a tune-up. Once your car is in the shop, they’ll find additional “necessary” repairs that significantly increase the final bill. The shop may even perform the extra work without your consent, leaving you with no choice but to pay.

The used parts scam. In this scam, a mechanic charges you for new parts but installs used or refurbished ones instead. The parts may be of inferior quality, leading to more frequent breakdowns and the need for additional repairs. Sometimes, the mechanic may not replace the part at all, claiming they did work that was never performed.

The endless repairs scam. After completing a repair, the mechanic tells you that another unrelated issue needs fixing. This cycle continues, with one repair leading to another, making it seem like your car is constantly in need of service. The goal is to keep you coming back and paying for unnecessary repairs.

Red flags to watch out for

Look out for these warning signs that you may have been targeted by an auto repair scam:

Unsolicited repair suggestions. Be wary of mechanics who suggest additional repairs or services that you didn’t ask for, especially if they claim the issue is urgent but can’t tell you why.

Vague or confusing explanations. If a mechanic can’t give you a clear, detailed explanation of what’s wrong with your car and why it needs to be fixed, it’s a red flag. Legitimate mechanics should be able to communicate the problem in a way that makes sense to you.

High-pressure tactics. If a mechanic is pushing you to make a quick decision on an expensive repair, take a step back. Reputable shops will give you time to consider your options and get a second opinion if needed.

Refusal to provide written estimates. Always ask for a written estimate before any work is done. If the shop refuses or tries to give you a verbal estimate only, it’s a sign they may be trying to manipulate the final cost.

Unexplained charges on the invoice. Review your bill carefully before paying. If there are charges that weren’t discussed or items that seem suspicious, ask for clarification. Never pay for work you didn’t authorize.

Protect yourself

Here’s how to protect yourself from falling victim to an auto repair scam.

First, before hiring a mechanic or heading to an auto repair shop, do your research. Look up reviews online, ask for recommendations from friends or family and check the shop’s credentials. It’s also recommended to familiarize yourself with your car’s basic maintenance needs and how it functions. The more you know, the less likely you are to be taken advantage of.

Next, get a second, or even third opinion on any major repairs before agreeing to have work done. Comparing estimates can help you determine if a shop is overcharging or recommending unnecessary work.

Also, if a mechanic replaces parts on your car, it’s a good idea to ask to see the old parts. This ensures that the work was actually done and that new parts were installed.

Keep detailed records of all repairs and services performed on your vehicle so you can

track your car’s history and identify any inconsistencies if a mechanic claims something needs repeated attention.

Finally, if you find a mechanic you trust, stick with them. Building a long-term relationship can help ensure that your car receives honest, high-quality service over time.

Auto repair scams can be a nightmare for car owners, but by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim. Stay safe!