How to File a Complaint Against a Collision Repair Shop
Finding yourself involved in a collision is never a pleasant experience, but if you have issues with the collision repair shop retained to fix your vehicle the experience can become even less pleasant. You have several means at your disposal with which to file a complaint against the repair shop, but remember that it can take several months to reach resolution if the repair shop does not wish to make the situation right.
- Contact your auto insurance company. If your collision repair was part of an insurance claim, you may have to report your complaint first to the insurance company. This is particularly true if the insurance company suggested the repair shop to you. In cases where the insurance company and the collision repair shop have a partnership, the repair shop is obligated by that partnership to make the situation right.
- Deal with the repair shop in a positive manner at all times. Talk with the manager or the owner to explain the problem. Give the repair shop an opportunity to resolve the issue to your satisfaction. If the shop cannot or will not make the situation right, you have additional options.
- Contact your local office of the Better Business Bureau to file your concerns with them. The Better Business Bureau has significant pull with companies who wish to keep their positive reputation. The representatives at the BBB will contact the collision repair shop to explain the situation and obtain resolution of the issue.
- File suit through small claims court if you still have not achieved resolution. Make sure to include court costs and any related fees in your small claims case. If you are able to win your case, you will receive those fees back as a part of your judgment.