People rely on their vehicles for their everyday lives. Repairs to cars can be inconvenient, costly, and difficult.
In some cases, an individual may take their vehicle to an automobile mechanic for repair but receive it back without being prepared properly. This can cause an individual major issues, especially if they rely on their car to get to important places, such as their job.
A defective car repair happens when the repair is poorly performed or has dangerous results. If a car repair is not completed properly, it may result in further damage to the vehicle or injuries to passengers.
A defective car repair can cause a vehicle to be unsafe to drive. Vehicles that are unsafe to drive may result in physical damage to the car, which can make further repairs difficult or even impossible.
Defective car repairs can also create risks for drivers, passengers, and other motorists. Unsafe vehicles can cause automobile accidents.
If an individual is injured in a car accident that results from a defective car repair, they may endure further suffering, including medical bills and lost wages if they miss work. In these situations it is important to consult with a local attorney in Michigan.
An auto repair lawyer can help an individual determine what types of claims they may have and the remedies they may be able to obtain.
What Are Some Examples of Defective Car Repairs?
Issues that constitute defective car repairs will depend on the circumstances of the situation as well as the make and model of the vehicle. Common examples of defective care repairs include:
- Improper wiring jobs;
- Defective bodywork;
- Defective mechanic work;
- Leaking hose or other replacement parts;
- Improper part replacement;
- Substandard repairs of cosmetic issues, such as on bumpers or fenders;
- Defective paint jobs.
Although it may not always be possible to avoid a defective car repair, there are steps an individual can take to protect themselves. Car mechanics must meet certain specific industry standards when making any upgrades, adjustments, or repairs to a vehicle.
An important step an individual can take to protect themselves is to research the mechanic shop or mechanic that they plan to use for the repair. Potential customers can ask employees or supervisors to see licenses, certificates, and other business operating certificates.
In many repair shops, the licenses and certifications will be displayed in the waiting room or shop. By verifying the certifications, an individual can help make sure they are using a qualified mechanic who is trained and capable of performing proper vehicle repairs.
What Is the Difference Between a Defective Car Repair and a Defective Product Recall?
Defective car repairs are repairs that are not done properly. Defective product recalls may be the result of a defect in the vehicle that resulted from its manufacturing.
An automobile recall typically only covers flaws that create a safety hazard and may result in injuries to the driver or passengers. Typically, cosmetic issues are not the subjects of recalls.
Examples of vehicle issues that may be included in an automobile recall include:
- Defects in the brake or gas pedal, including getting stuck or jammed;
- Steering mechanisms that are misaligned;
- Flaws in the fuel, exhaust, or cooling systems;
- Defects in the vehicle’s safety equipment, for example, safety belts or airbags;
- Structural issues with the vehicle’s frame, transmission, body, or engine assembly;
- Electrical or computer issues, such as a defective keyless fob.
There are also federal motor vehicle safety standards that set the minimum performance requirements for vehicle parts that affect the operation of the vehicle, including:
- Tires;
- Brakes;
- Steering wheels;
- Lighting;
- Other components in place for the protection and safety of the driver and passengers.
Automobile recalls may be necessary if a vehicle part does not comply with these standards or there is a safety-related defect in the equipment in the car. In addition to these issues, defective vehicles may also be covered by lemon laws.
What Should I Do Regarding a Defective Car Repair?
One of the most common consumer complaints is car repair fraud. These complaints may be even more important if the faulty repair resulted in a car accident.
A lawyer for car issues can help an individual determine if they can recover damages for the faulty repairs. Typically, mechanic work is completed in accordance with a contract between the mechanic and the consumer.
This contract will include the terms of payment, the expected length of time for the repair, and other issues related to the mechanic’s work. If any issues arise related to the repair, the individual should review their contract.
What Documentation Do I Need When Dealing with a Defective Car Repair?
Documents related to the repair will be the foundation of the defective care repair claim. When an individual takes their vehicle in for repair, they should keep all related documentation, including:
- Repair receipts;
- Insurance documents;
- Purchase and repair warranties;
- Copies of any written communications the individual had with the shop; and
- Copies of any other documents related to the repair.
How Do I Sue for Defective Car Repair Issues?
If an individual has a defective car repair performed on their vehicle, they may be able to file a lawsuit. The basis of these lawsuits is often a negligent repair that resulted in damage to the car or injury to individuals operating or riding in the car.
There are multiple parties that may be responsible for an individual’s defective repair losses. Examples of parties who may be liable in defective car repair cases include:
- The shop mechanic;
- The owner of a repair shop;
- The vehicle manufacturer, especially in cases where a company mechanic works under a warranty agreement.
The legal theory of negligence allows for recovery when another individual is careless given the circumstances of a situation. Examples of faulty work that may result from negligence include:
- Failure to perform the correct repair procedure;
- Installation of the wrong parts;
- Failure to completely repair damaged parts;
- Failure to identify repairs that are needed that a mechanic who was acting with a reasonable standard of care would have noticed;
- Causing damage to one or more parts of the vehicle while performing repairs.
Should I Talk to a Lawyer for Help with a Defective Car Repair Claim?
Because your car plays such an important part in your everyday life, it is important to consult with a Michigan liability lawyer if your vehicle was defectively repaired. Issues related to car repairs can prevent you from going to work, caring for your family, and completing everyday tasks.
Cases involving defective car repairs can involve multiple parties and be complex. Your lawyer can review the issues in your case and advise you on how to proceed, as well as the damages you may be able to obtain.
Your attorney will represent you during settlement negotiations as well as in court. Having a lawyer handle your case is the best way to ensure you receive compensation for your losses.
LegalMatch can help you find a liability lawyer in your area who can file a lawsuit on your behalf. You just submit your claim online at no cost, and you will receive responses from member attorneys within 24 hours containing information on their background, location, and fees.
