People often have no idea they've been ripped off. It starts when some unethical mechanic convinces a car owner that unnecessary repairs are needed.
Because an average person really doesn't know about cars, this makes proving auto repair fraud difficult. Even those that suspect they've been scammed don't know what to do in order to make their case.
Below are some of the most common auto repair scams. Please keep these in mind the next time you need to have your car worked on.
Highway bandits - This is one of the oldest auto repair scams in existence. These "highway bandits" own or work for service stations. They prey on motorists who stop for gasoline or air or water. There are numerous ploys they use to separate the unsuspecting motorist from his or her money. Some of them puncture tires, and cut water hoses and fan belts so that the motorist will have to buy new ones. This is a common danger for travelers.
Maintenance hook schemes - Repair shops will advertise check-ups or preventive maintenance service at very reasonable rates. But some use these maintenance specials to "hook" and deceive their customers. A simple oil change and lubrication process can turn into expensive and unneeded repairs. They cause damage during inspection and enhance their income by "discovering" new car repair needs.
Intentional misrepresentation of repair needs - Modern automobiles are complex, highly technical machines. The average person has no idea how to repair or maintain his or her own vehicle. It's very easy for an unethical auto shop or mechanic to deceive the average consumer. Beware of the mechanic who seems a little too pat at explaining the particular problem with your car and always consider getting a second opinion and an estimate of costs before authorizing the repairs.
Counterfeit car parts - Some unscrupulous repair shop owners cut costs by using counterfeit car parts instead of original and high-quality replacement parts. The price difference is significant but you cannot save on that. Instead you will be charged the full price of original parts without knowing it. This can actually put you and your family in danger because counterfeit auto parts are often of inferior quality. The sad part is detecting counterfeit auto parts is difficult because the counterfeiters often duplicate trademarks or alter them so slightly that it takes an experienced eye to notice the difference.
Part replacement problems - A lot of dishonest mechanics have charged customers for parts that weren't used. In addition, the mechanic will charge you for the labor required to install the non-existent replacement. It's a double rip-off! The old used part switcheroo is another common car part related scam. Used parts are a viable option for many repairs. However, some mechanics charge customers for new, premium parts after installing substandard or used car parts. Always ask for your old, damaged part back after it's been replaced. It helps keep your mechanic honest.
For quick and affordable repairs, visit Auto Repair Service Lorain where the service is good and the price is even better. - 15790
Because an average person really doesn't know about cars, this makes proving auto repair fraud difficult. Even those that suspect they've been scammed don't know what to do in order to make their case.
Below are some of the most common auto repair scams. Please keep these in mind the next time you need to have your car worked on.
Highway bandits - This is one of the oldest auto repair scams in existence. These "highway bandits" own or work for service stations. They prey on motorists who stop for gasoline or air or water. There are numerous ploys they use to separate the unsuspecting motorist from his or her money. Some of them puncture tires, and cut water hoses and fan belts so that the motorist will have to buy new ones. This is a common danger for travelers.
Maintenance hook schemes - Repair shops will advertise check-ups or preventive maintenance service at very reasonable rates. But some use these maintenance specials to "hook" and deceive their customers. A simple oil change and lubrication process can turn into expensive and unneeded repairs. They cause damage during inspection and enhance their income by "discovering" new car repair needs.
Intentional misrepresentation of repair needs - Modern automobiles are complex, highly technical machines. The average person has no idea how to repair or maintain his or her own vehicle. It's very easy for an unethical auto shop or mechanic to deceive the average consumer. Beware of the mechanic who seems a little too pat at explaining the particular problem with your car and always consider getting a second opinion and an estimate of costs before authorizing the repairs.
Counterfeit car parts - Some unscrupulous repair shop owners cut costs by using counterfeit car parts instead of original and high-quality replacement parts. The price difference is significant but you cannot save on that. Instead you will be charged the full price of original parts without knowing it. This can actually put you and your family in danger because counterfeit auto parts are often of inferior quality. The sad part is detecting counterfeit auto parts is difficult because the counterfeiters often duplicate trademarks or alter them so slightly that it takes an experienced eye to notice the difference.
Part replacement problems - A lot of dishonest mechanics have charged customers for parts that weren't used. In addition, the mechanic will charge you for the labor required to install the non-existent replacement. It's a double rip-off! The old used part switcheroo is another common car part related scam. Used parts are a viable option for many repairs. However, some mechanics charge customers for new, premium parts after installing substandard or used car parts. Always ask for your old, damaged part back after it's been replaced. It helps keep your mechanic honest.
For quick and affordable repairs, visit Auto Repair Service Lorain where the service is good and the price is even better. - 15790
About the Author:
Cheryl L. True is a Manila-based freelance writer who writes on a variety of topics.