Get Several Trustworthy Referrals To Avoid Auto Scams

WALLINGFORD — The Better Business Bureau of Connecticut urges consumers to be savvy when dealing with automotive repairs. According to the US Department of Transportation’s statistics, there were nearly six million reported nonfatal motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2005.

Most of these vehicles likely ended up at a collision center, where the average repair bill was $2,200 to $2,300. Given this, it is vital that drivers avoid automotive scams and find the best auto repair shop for them, by checking to see if a business is a BBB member before doing business with them.

The BBB can provide consumers with a list of trustworthy collision repair shops for consumers to compare, and advises consumers be proactive in doing their own research. In addition to verifying membership, the BBB also recommends asking friends and relatives for recommendations.

To check a shop’s qualifications, ask about advanced technician training from a national organization such as the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), or National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. In addition to verifying information at www.bbb.org, look for decals or plaques indicating the shop’s current membership status in industry associations, local business groups, and consumer agencies such as the Alliance of Automotive Service Professionals (AASP), Automotive Service Association (ASA), Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), and National Auto Body Council (NABC).

It is important to remember to get price estimates in writing, upfront, for labor as well as parts. The estimate should contain an itemized list for all parts and services, with prices, and identify any used or remanufactured parts.

Besides requesting a written repair and price estimate, ask for an explanation of why specific recommendations are necessary to correct the collision damage, before the job begins. The BBB also encourages consumers to ask about a written warranty.

Many professional, reputable repair shops will stand behind their repair work by offering one.

Usually this warranty is for a specific time or mileage and covers the labor, materials, and installation. If a problem is noticed after repairs are completed, it is important to call the repair shop immediately and make arrangements to return the automobile for additional repairs.

Furthermore, auto insurers in the state of Connecticut are required by law to cover the sales tax of a totaled car when it is replaced with a new or used vehicle. The BBB recommends that consumers remember to contact their insurance company to find out if they qualify for sales tax reimbursement after an accident.

The collision repair business is a $38.2 billion industry, with paint and body repair shops accounting for more than half of the collision repair market at $20.8 billion, according to the 2006 Collision Repair Trends: Industry Statistics & Analysis, published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). Consumers can protect themselves from being scammed by following these BBB tips as well as referring to the BBB website at www.ctbbb.org, or by calling 203-269-2700, extension 2.