Cars are an important part of most people’s everyday lives. When an individual’s car has to be repaired, it can cause them great inconvenience as well as cost a lot of money.
Sometimes, an individual will have their vehicle returned from an automobile mechanic without being properly repaired. Defective mechanic work may render a vehicle unsafe to drive.
In addition, a car that is not properly or safely repaired may cause an automobile accident. If someone has been in a vehicle accident resulting from a defective car repair in Tennessee, they should consult with a local attorney in Tennessee as soon as they can.
An individual’s lawyer for car issues can advise them on what type of claim they may have and how they can obtain damages for lost wages, medical bills, and other expenses or issues related to the accident. Attorneys can also determine if an individual’s vehicle falls under the state’s lemon laws.
What Are Some Examples of Defective Car Repairs?
What will be considered a defective car repair will depend on the situation and the make and model of the car. Generally, defective car repairs may include, but may not be limited to:
- Leaking hose or other replacement parts;
- Faulty mechanical work;
- Improper part replacement;
- Defective bodywork;
- Improper wiring jobs;
- Substandard repairs of cosmetic issues;
- Defective paint jobs.
What Is the Difference Between a Defective Car Repair and a Defective Product Recall?
A defective car repair can include work that is not properly completed, such as the list above. A defective product recall usually results from a defect that was caused during manufacturing.
A defect recall or automobile recall will most often include issues that create safety hazards that may result in an injury to the driver or passengers. Issues that may cause an automobile to be recalled may include:
- Flaws in the car’s:
- Exhaust;
- Fuel;
- Cooling system;
- A defect in the gas pedal or brake pedal or gas pedal, such as jamming or getting stuck;
- Misaligned steering mechanisms;
- A defect in the vehicle’s safety equipment, for example, airbags or safety belts;
- Structural problems with the vehicle’s:
- Transmission;
- Body;
- Frame; or
- Engine assembly; and
- Computer or electrical issues.
The federal government provides motor vehicle safety standards, or minimum performance requirements, for parts of the vehicle that affect its operation, including:
- Brakes;
- Lighting;
- Tires;
- Steering wheel; and
- Any component that is in place for the protection and safety of the driver and passengers.
A recall may be necessary if a part of the vehicle does not comply with the federal safety standards or if there is a defect in the vehicle’s equipment that is causing a safety issue.
What Should I Do Regarding a Defective Car Repair?
Vehicle repair fraud is one very common example of a consumer complaint. If an individual’s car received a defective repair and they are considering filing a lawsuit, a lawyer can help.
Depending on the facts of the case, a lawyer will determine if an individual may be able to recover damages for the faulty repair, especially in cases where an automobile accident occurred. Car repairs are usually done based on a contract between the owner of the vehicle and the shop or mechanic.
These types of contracts will usually include:
- The payment terms for the repair
- The estimated time for completion
- Any other issues that are related to the repair
If an issue does arise related to an individual’s car repair, they should look over their repair contract.
What Documentation Do I Need When Dealing with a Defective Car Repair?
A defective vehicle repair claim will be based mostly on documentation. Because of this, any time a vehicle is taken in for a repair or upgrade, an individual should save any documentation related to the repair, even if they do not think they will have any issues.
Documents that may be related to a repair include:
- Repair receipts;
- Insurance documents;
- Purchase and repair warranties;
- Written communications with the mechanic or shop;
- Other documents or legal instruments related to the car repair.
How Do I Sue for Defective Car Repair Issues?
If a mechanic or a shop makes a defective car repair because of negligence, especially if it results in damage to the vehicle or injuries to the individuals operating or riding in the vehicle, they may face liability. It is important to be aware that there may be more than one party who can be held responsible for these issues, for example:
- Shop mechanics;
- Owners of repair shops;
- Vehicle manufacturers, especially in situations when company mechanics are working under a warranty agreement.
Examples of repairs that may be considered negligently completed by a mechanic may include:
- Failure to completely repair a damaged part;
- Failure to perform the correct repair procedure;
- Installation of the wrong part or parts;
- Failure to identify a repair that other mechanics working with a reasonable standard of care would have;
- Causing damage to the car while performing a repair.
Can You Sue a Mechanic in Tennessee?
An incorrect repair is a common scenario that occurs. Although a mechanic may claim an issue was fixed, in some cases, it will not be fixed completely or accurately.
Another issue that arises is bad estimates. States have exacted consumer laws that require transparency regarding the details of a repair before it is completed, including disclosing the details of the repair and providing an accurate quote.
Another issue that may arise is a breach of warranty. Many vehicles will come with warranties attached to them that outline what repairs are covered as well as the duration. In some situations, a mechanic may fail to honor or abide by the warranty, either refusing to repair the vehicle or to cover the cost.
Fraud is an additional issue that arises. For example, a mechanic may charge for parts or services that they did not provide.
A mechanic’s lien may also be illegally used. This type of lien guarantees payment to the mechanic before any other creditors should liquidation occur.
If an individual has encountered any of these issues related to their vehicle or vehicle repair, they may be able to sue to recover damages. It is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible, as there may be a time limitation on filing the claim, referred to as the statute of limitations.
Should I Talk to a Lawyer for Help with a Defective Car Repair Claim?
As your vehicle is most likely a very important part of your everyday life, it is very important to have the assistance of a Tennessee liability lawyer if you have any car repair issues in the State of Tennessee. These kinds of problems can prevent you from going to work, taking care of your loved ones, and completing necessary daily tasks.
Defective car repair cases can be complex and difficult to prove, and multiple parties may be involved. Your auto repair lawyer can help you determine the best way to fix the issue or file a lawsuit to obtain damages. Using LegalMatch can connect you with the right attorney for your case.
If you do have to file a lawsuit, your attorney will ensure your rights are protected throughout the proceedings and will represent you during all court appearances. Having a lawyer handle your defective car repair claim will help ensure you are compensated for your losses.
