More Facts About Vehicle Electronics
One of the most popular scams in America today is the rollback. A rollback is when a car installer or repairer deliberately installs substandard parts in order to charge for repairs. They usually install the old, worn-out parts back into cars so that if you drive away after your vehicle has been repaired, you will be charged for additional repairs and services.
The number of consumers who are actually victims of a scam like this is unknown because many people are unaware they have been victimized. Regardless of this fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that between April 2005 and December 2008, there were more than 5 million complaints filed in relation to fraud involving automotive parts and repairs.
The Federal Trade Commission wrote, in their publication “FTC Action Against Auto Installers,” that auto repair shops and other automotive-related businesses are impersonating government agencies or insurance companies. There are a variety of ways that auto installers can trick consumers into paying for work that is not needed:
–They may tell you your car will be towed without permission.
–They may tell you that you need a new part for your car but don’t inform you of the existing parts that cause the problem.
–They may ask for payment in cash and not provide a receipt. When they offer to test drive your car, they charge you before they have even seen your vehicle.
–They can tell you that the warranty on the parts in your vehicle will expire soon and ask you if it is okay to take those parts out so they can install new parts.
Here are a few tips to protect yourself before you bring your car into a repair shop:
–Get recommendations from family, friends, or co-workers if you’re looking for an auto-repair business.
–Go with your gut feeling. If the business seems shady or you don’t feel comfortable at all, go somewhere else. Don’t be afraid to walk out the door if you feel it is necessary.
–Call Business Consumer Alliance at 1-800-289-9999 and file an online complaint if your instincts tell you to get out of the situation right away.
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