Smart Shopping for Auto RepairsYou can help avoid trouble with an unreliable or dishonest repair shop by following these tips : Deal only with a registered shop. Make sure there's a green and white " Registered State of New York Motor Vehicle Repair Shop " sign outside the shop and a valid New York State Department of Motor Vehicles DMV registration certificate inside. Use the " Find a DMV - regulated Business " service to find a registered repair shop in your area. Ask your family, friends and co - workers for advice on reliable repair shops in your area, as well as those you should avoid. Keep all records, including estimates, invoices, work orders, receipts, guarantees and warranties. Besides their importance in case you file a repair complaint , these papers serve as your record of service, and could increase your vehicle's resale value. If you authorize repair work by phone , write down the date and time, the name of the person you spoke with, any estimated price quoted, and other pertinent details. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Management of a shop should take the time to explain required repairs and prices, discuss problems, and tell you about the training and experience of employees. 

The "Consumer's Bill Of Rights" 
Under the Repair Shop Act , you have the following rights when dealing with a repair shop : Written Estimate If you request it , the repair shop must give you a written estimate of the parts and labor necessary for each specific repair. The shop may charge a reasonable fee for developing a written estimate , but the labor charge for an estimate may not exceed the shop's usual hourly labor charge . The estimate must list each part and its cost, and show what parts, if any, are either used or not of original quality. It must show the labor charges for each repair and by what method they are calculated. The shop may not charge more than the estimated price without your permission. Authorizing Work A shop may not perform any services unless you

user: Hey, Good morning. I recently had to go to a repair shop, but i'm having some issues, Is there something you can do about it?

assistant: There is, but we encourage users to attempt to resolve the issues by themselves first, with the management of the business. In order to do that, we advise you to keep a written record of all your interactions with the business. If a resolution is not possible, then you can come with us.

assistant: Do you want to know how to submit your possible complaint?

user: No, that's not necessary right now. I think i'll try your first advice.

user: Say, I have a doubt. Can i ask for those parts which get replaced on my car?

assistant: Sure, You have that right. Be aware that you must write down that request before your car is touched by the service.

user: That seems important. I'll make sure to keep it in mind. What can you tell me if i have an issue with the so-called Lemon Law?

assistant: Then you can refer to Lemon Law section to see what  you can do about it, to resolve your problem.

user: Look, this is totally hypothetical, but lets say i file a complaint. What happens if i'm given the reason?

assistant: If that happens, then DMV will enter the case with full force, taking actions against the shop. Possible consequences may go from suspension up to license revoking and even fines. These includes possible restitution of any money you lost with them.

user: Really? I could get my money back, thanks to this?

assistant: That's correct. That's in the case a judge declares it. The shop coudl get a softer penalty because of this.

user: For what you are saying, then the best action is to participate and make complaints, isn't?

assistant: That's right. With your participation, The Repair Shop Act can be used to return money to consumers through mediation and restitution.