Dispute w/car dealer repair -- what to do?

[db]

I was quoted a specific price for labor (starter change-out) for a Honda Accord, then when they finished they claim it took longer to do the job.
AFAIK, all labor time is pre-determined by Honda Corporate, whether in actual practice they actually go over or under.
A starter change-out is a 20 or 30 minute job. They claim it took 1 1/2 hours.

I already talked to 2 people at the dealer, each one kicking me up a level until I got a voice mail box; so I'm not getting anywhere with the dealer.

What do you suggest I do to get the price back where it should be?

(Work done in another state on daughter's car, but repair on my credit card).

 

[Emulex]

You need to read the estimate (Work authorization) that was signed. It states what can and can't be charged and whoever signed it was legally bound to those charges.

If nothing work authorization form was signed by any party, then you have something to work with.

 

[VirginiaDonkey]

Also, some states have a limit to which repair shops can charge over a written estimate. In Virginia, I think its 10% they can overcharge without your approval.


good luck!

 

[cmf21]

Just call the Honda corporate number and talk to someone there. I did this a while ago with my Dodge dealership and it worked wonders.

 

[woodie1]

In my state, if the repair runs over the written estimate by a certian amount they have to get an OKAY before they can charge more.

 

[bozo1]

Most places change what the book (forget what it's called) says is the average time to do a specific task. If the book says 1.5 hours, then that is what most all places will charge you regardless of whether it took 15 minutes or 3 hours. If you had an agreement that says otherwise in writing, just call up the regional supervisor.

 

[crystal]

Yeah, they must call you to ok the work if it is over estimated price.