Protect Yourself from Auto Repair Scams

The Problem with Asking for Old Parts

Asking for old parts back from your auto repair can be problematic. It can imply distrust towards the repair shop, which can create tension. Additionally, old parts like spark plugs or fuel filters can be dirty, smelly, and difficult to verify. For instance, old spark plugs might have unreadable part numbers, making it hard to confirm if they belong to your vehicle.

Why Asking for Old Parts Can Be Ineffective

1. Trust Issues: Requesting old parts can signal that you don't trust the repair shop.
2. Identification Problems: Old parts, especially brake pads, can be dirty and unidentifiable.
3. Inconvenience: Carrying around dirty, smelly parts is not practical.

A Better Approach: Ask for New Part Boxes

Instead of asking for old parts, request the boxes from the new parts installed. This method allows you to verify part numbers easily without dealing with dirty old parts. You can then confirm these part numbers with a third-party parts store.

Benefits of Asking for New Part Boxes

1. Easy Verification: Part numbers on new boxes are clear and easy to verify.
2. No Mess: Avoid dealing with dirty, smelly old parts.
3. Creative Excuses: You can tell the repair shop you collect automotive boxes or need them for future reference.

Handling Larger, More Expensive Parts

For larger, more expensive parts, you can tell the shop you want to save the box for warranty purposes. This makes it easier to receive credit if there's a parts warranty issue in the future.

Your Rights as a Consumer

It's important to know that you have the right to ask for your old parts back. This is true in all 50 states in the U.S. The only exception is if there's a core charge on the old part, which means it needs to be returned to the supplier for re-manufacturing.

Interesting Stats About Auto Repair Scams

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Americans spend over $2 billion annually on unnecessary car repairs due to scams and fraud. NHTSA
• A survey by the American Automobile Association (AAA) found that 66% of U.S. drivers do not trust auto repair shops in general. AAA
• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) receives thousands of complaints each year about auto repair scams, highlighting the prevalence of the issue. FTC

Conclusion

Protecting yourself from auto repair scams involves being smart about how you verify the work done on your vehicle. Instead of asking for old parts, request the boxes from the new parts installed. This method is less confrontational and more effective in ensuring you get what you paid for. Remember, it's your right as a consumer to ask for old parts, but there are more practical ways to ensure transparency and trust.

By following these tips, you can avoid falling victim to auto repair scams and ensure your vehicle is in the best possible condition.