Puts the squeeze on auto manufacturers who fail to fix life-threatening safety defects. Prevents car dealers from forcing consumers to keep their mouths shut in order to get a settlement, for vehicles purchased back by the dealers. Auto manufacturers must now share computerized diagnostic information with independent automotive repair shops, as well as dealers. Requires automotive repair shops to tell consumers if the replacement parts are from the original manufacturer, or an alternative source. AB 1778 also allows consumers to use faxes or e-mails to approve changes in their original repair estimates.
Consumers can now ask for and receive their credit scores after applying for a home mortgage loan.
Creates a strong enforcement monitor to make sure the Contractors State License Board acts quickly in responding to consumer complaints. On line insurance ads must reveal the license status for brokers and agents in California. The California Department of Consumer Affairs promotes and protects the interests of California consumers.