Printed financial statement on a desk
Photo: Unsplash License. Illustration of the topic, not a service endorsement.
Unlock the complete guide

This guide is free. If it helped, you can chip in any amount (suggested $5) through Stripe.

Your rights as a customer

Many states have auto repair laws. The details differ, so check your state attorney general or consumer protection office.

Written estimates

Many states require shops to give a written estimate on request and to get your approval before doing work that goes above it by more than a set amount.

Old parts

In many places you can ask for your replaced parts back when you approve the work. Ask at drop-off, not after.

Itemized invoice

You should receive an invoice that lists the parts, the labor and whether parts were new, used or rebuilt.

Recalls

Safety recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer for that brand. Check your vehicle identification number on the NHTSA recall lookup.