Defective car repair in Oklahoma, as in any other state, can be a great inconvenience for individuals in their everyday lives. When a car problem arises, it will usually be taken to an automobile mechanic.
Sometimes, however, a car may come back with improper repairs. This can cause issues in many different areas of life, such as with our job, our loved ones, and any other tasks we have to complete each day.
Defective car repairs can also cause a car to be dangerous to drive and may result in additional damage to the car itself, which can make future repairs difficult or not possible. Defective car repairs can also cause automobile accidents.
If an individual has had an automobile accident because of a defective vehicle repair, it is important to consult with a local attorney in Oklahoma as soon as possible. An auto repair lawyer can review the facts of an individual’s case and determine the best way for them to remedy their issue and receive compensation for their losses.
What Are Some Examples of Defective Car Repairs?
Defective car repairs cannot always be avoided. However, there are steps that can be taken to help ensure that defective car repairs are avoided whenever possible.
This can be done by researching the specific mechanic or shop the individual plants to take their car to for repair work. At the shop, they can request to see the licenses, certificates, and other business operating certificates the business holds.
Car mechanics have to meet industry standards when they make adjustments, upgrades, or repairs to cars. If an individual verifies the license and certifications at the shop, it can help ensure they will be using a mechanic that meets industry standards and who will perform the repairs completely and properly.
There are many different examples of what may be considered a defective car repair, such as:
- An improper wiring job;
- Defective bodywork;
- Defective paint jobs;
- A leaking replacement part;
- Improper replacement of a part;
- Defective mechanic work;
- Repairs of cosmetic issues that are substandard.
What Is the Difference Between a Defective Car Repair and a Defective Product Recall?
A defective vehicle repair is a repair that is not completed properly or fully. It may involve an improper or incomplete process or a defective part.
A defective product recall is a process that occurs when there is a defect in a vehicle that occurred during manufacturing. An automobile recall is commonly issued when there is a flaw in a car that causes a safety hazard that may result in injuries to drivers or passengers.
Issues that may result in an automobile defect product recall include:
- Misaligned steering mechanisms;
- Issues with the exhaust, fuel, or cooling systems;
- Defects in the safety equipment in the vehicle;
- Structural issues in the car’s:
- Body;
- Frame;
- Transmission;
- Engine assembly;
- Defective gas pedals or brake pedals;
- Computer issues;
- Electrical issues, such as defective keyless fobs.
It is important for an individual to reach out to a lawyer for car issues in their area to determine if their repair was defective or if their vehicle is subject to a recall. Additionally, a lawyer can help an individual determine if their car is covered by lemon laws, which may apply if there have been multiple unsuccessful attempts at repairing the issue.
What Should I Do Regarding a Defective Car Repair?
If someone believes that their vehicle may have a defective repair, it is important to consult with a lawyer, especially in cases where they were involved in an accident. Their lawyer can help them determine the best way to resolve their issue based on their situation.
Car repairs are usually governed by a contract between the owner of the vehicle and the repair shop or mechanic. These types of contracts cover the length of time the repair should take, the payment terms, and other issues related to the work that will be completed.
If an issue arises with a car repair, an individual should review their contract. Next, they can contact the shop or mechanic, advise them there is an issue, and request that they fix it.
If the shop is not willing to fix the issue, the individual’s lawyer can reach out and request it be fixed instead of having to file a lawsuit. Most businesses would prefer to avoid litigation and will be willing to try and fix an issue, especially after hearing from a lawyer.
What Documentation Do I Need When Dealing with a Defective Car Repair?
Car repair claims are based on the documents related to the repair or service, such as:
- Insurance documents;
- The repair receipt;
- Purchase warranties and repair warranties;
- Copies of written communications between the customer and the mechanic or shop; and
- Copies of any documents related to the service or repair.
Any time a car is taken to a shop for repair or service, an individual should keep all documentation they receive, in case an issue does arise.
How Do I Sue for Defective Car Repair Issues?
If a car repair is defective and the issue cannot be resolved directly with the mechanic or shop, a lawsuit may be required. Defective car repair lawsuits are usually based on negligence, which allows a plaintiff to recover damages when the defendant is careless, given the circumstances of the situation.
Common examples of negligent car repairs may include, but are not limited to:
- Installing an incorrect part;
- Filing to use the right repair procedure;
- Failing to completely fix a damaged part or parts;
- Failing to find necessary repairs that other mechanics would have found in the same or similar circumstances;
- Causing more damage to the car during the repair.
Can You Sue a Mechanic in Oklahoma?
An individual may be able to sue a mechanic in Oklahoma for several different issues, such as:
- Breaches of warranty;
- Most cars have a warranty, and if a mechanic fails to honor or cover the cost under the warranty, it may be considered a breach;
- Bad estimates;
- There are laws that protect consumers requiring transparency on the details of repairs as well as providing an accurate quote;
- Incorrect repairs;
- These occur when a mechanic claims an issue was fixed when, in fact, it was not completely or accurately fixed;
- Fraud;
- This usually occurs when a mechanic charges for services or parts that they did not actually provide; and
- Illegal use of a mechanic’s lien;
- A mechanic’s lien guarantees the mechanic will receive payment before any other creditors if liquidation occurs.
For any of these issues related to a car repair, a consumer should consult with a lawyer as soon as possible following the defective repair. There will most likely be a time limit on filing their claim, called the statute of limitations, after which time, they will be barred from recovery.
Should I Talk to a Lawyer for Help with a Defective Car Repair Claim?
Your car is probably one of the most important things you and you use every day. If your car has a defective repair in Oklahoma, it is important to reach out to an Oklahoma liability lawyer. You can use LegalMatch to help you connect with a lawyer in your area.
Having a problem with your car can prevent you from taking care of yourself and loved ones, getting to and from your job, and handling everyday issues. Proving a defective car repair caused damages can be a difficult task. Having a lawyer will ensure your case is effectively presented and you have the best chance possible at obtaining compensation for your losses.
