Common Automotive Repair Scams to Avoid

Have you ever felt like you were being tricked by your local auto repair shop? Or perhaps you’ve experienced the frustration of an unexpected bill that seems largely inflated? The auto repair industry is unfortunately rife with scams designed to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common scams that exist in the automotive repair industry, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to them.

1990s Bronco II: A Real-Life Example of an Automotive Repair Scam

Back in the 1990s, I had to get my 1984 Bronco II “California smog checked.” I was drawn to a smog check SALE at a prominent national tire store. There were about fifteen customers waiting in line, and a few more ahead of me. Several customers were getting new EGR valves installed. The presence of these services was peculiar, especially when a technician informed a customer that the smog check showed he needed a new EGR valve installed.

Here's the concern: what are the odds that, across multiple vehicles of different makes, models, and mileage, a single common cause of failure would be the EGR valve? The 19.95 smog check and cert. was transforming into a 200.00 expense for some customers while I was in the line. I left the line, audibly mumbling that I was going to an honest 39.95 smog check station that doesn't hold a large stock of EGR valves, waiting for the next fool.

Avoiding Common Automotive Repair Scams

There are a few reliable methods to ensure you are getting the complete job for your money. Let's explore them:

1. Understand Labor Rate Policies

Beware of shops without a transparent labor rate or job pricing schedule. A reliable shop will have a posted labor rate or a job pricing schedule. For instance, an oil change might be priced at $15, a brake job at $85, and so on. This information will help you estimate the cost upfront and avoid unexpected bills.

2. Ask Questions and Clarify Charges

Ask questions like, "How many hours does it take to do that repair?" If it takes two hours, your labor charge should be 2 hours x $40 per hour $80. Only additional charges should be for shop supplies, disposal fees, and of course, parts. For example, if a water pump needs to be replaced, the shop may recommend additional parts like hoses, belts, radiator flush, and a tensioner. That's acceptable, as you want the job done right.

3. Be Wary of Unnecessary Repairs

Here’s a typical scenario of how a shop may scam you: Let’s say you need a water pump and it takes the mechanic 2 hours to do the job per the labor guide. They call you a bit later and say you need an alternator too, which might be true. However, they say that's going to take another 2 hours of labor. In some cases, to get to the water pump, they already removed the alternator. There should be no new labor charge as it's already removed and is included in the original water pump labor hours. Instead of 2 hours of labor, they may be trying to get much more.

Conclusion

By being aware of common scams, asking questions, and understanding labor rates and charges, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive practices. Avoiding scams not only saves you money but also ensures that the repairs are done correctly and efficiently.