Auto Repair Disputes
Guide to handling mechanic, body shop, and dealership repair disputes in small claims court.
Auto Repair Disputes
Botched repairs, unauthorized work, overcharges, and car damage at mechanics, body shops, and dealerships.
What Small Claims CAN Handle
- •Repairs done incorrectly that caused more damage
- •Unauthorized repairs you didn't approve
- •Overcharges beyond the estimate
- •Damage to your car while in shop's possession
- •Parts not replaced that were billed for
- •Refunds for work that didn't fix the problem
What May Require Other Options
- •Lemon law claims (separate process)
- •Warranty disputes (often manufacturer issue)
- •Claims exceeding small claims limits
- •Auto dealer fraud (may have special remedies)
- •Insurance disputes (separate process)
- •Class actions against manufacturers
Get a Second Opinion in Writing
Before filing, take your car to another reputable mechanic for a written assessment of what was done wrong. This independent evaluation is often the most important evidence in auto repair cases.
Tip: Keep all old parts that were supposedly replaced - they can be inspected to prove fraud.
Common Scenarios
Botched Repair
The shop did the repair but it wasn't done right - problem returned, new problems appeared, or the repair failed soon after.
Unauthorized Work
Shop did extra repairs you never approved, or significantly exceeded the written estimate without calling for authorization.
Damage While in Shop
Your car was damaged while at the shop - scratches, dents, interior damage, or something was stolen from the vehicle.
Fraud / Phantom Repairs
Shop charged for parts or work that wasn't actually done. The old parts are still there, or the claimed new parts are obviously used.
What You Need to Prove
Auto repair cases require showing that the shop didn't meet their obligations. Here's what judges look for:
1. What Was Promised
Show the written estimate, work order, or repair contract that specified what would be done and at what price.
2. What Was Actually Done
Get another mechanic's assessment of the work. This shows if repairs were done wrong or not at all.
3. Your Damages
Calculate what it cost to fix the problem - the money you already paid plus what you had to pay to correct it.
4. You Gave Them a Chance
Evidence you contacted them about the problem and gave them opportunity to fix it before suing.
Evidence You Should Gather
Shop Documents
- Written estimate before work
- Final invoice/receipt
- Work order or authorization form
- Any warranty provided
Second Opinion
- Written inspection report
- Photos of the problem
- Estimate to fix it correctly
- Mechanic willing to testify
Photos & Video
- Before/after photos of work area
- Photos of damage or defects
- Old parts (if you have them)
- Dashboard warning lights
Communications
- Texts/emails with shop
- Notes from phone calls (dates, names)
- Complaint letters sent
- Formal demand letter
State Auto Repair Laws
Many states have specific auto repair shop regulations that may help your case:
Pro Tip: Always Request Old Parts
Before any repair, tell the shop in writing you want to keep all replaced parts. This lets you verify work was actually done.
Don't Let Them "Fix" It Again
If the shop offers to redo the work, get a second opinion first. Once they touch it again, it's harder to prove what they did wrong.
Example Case + How This Site Helps
Example: You paid for a transmission repair, but the same issue returned in 3 days.
A repair shop charged you $1,800, did not complete the promised fix, and refused a refund. You want repair costs and towing fees back.
Typical claim range: $1,200-$3,500
What to collect first
- Original estimate, paid invoice, and warranty terms
- Second mechanic inspection showing incomplete or faulty work
- Texts or emails where the shop refused to fix or refund
Confirm fit and priorities
Start with the quiz so the app can steer you toward the right dispute flow and state rules.
Take the quizOrganize evidence and timeline
Use Case Manager to track facts, deadlines, and uploads so your story is clear and ready for court.
Open Case ManagerPrepare your pre-filing package
Generate a demand letter and supporting documents to improve settlement chances before filing.
Build demand packagePlan filing and hearing prep
Use filing guidance, calendar, and statement tools so you can submit correctly and present clearly.
Review filing stepsReady to Assess Your Case?
Take our intake quiz to organize your facts and see if small claims is right for your auto repair dispute.
Related Resources
Legal Disclaimer
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Auto repair laws vary by state, and information may be outdated. No attorney-client relationship is created. Consult a licensed attorney for advice about your specific situation. See our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.