When is a repair shop responsible for a defective auto repair?

Answer 1

As an auto repair shop manager balancing warranty issues can be challenging. First and foremost has to be fairness. If a repair facility performs a repair you should always ask about the warranty before authorizing the work. Most warranties are pretty standard and cover the parts and labor involved. Any exceptions should be explained by the repair facility representative beforehand. If an installed part fails due to a defect or workmanship and is still within time and mileage requirements of the warranty then it should be repaired by the facility according to the warranty guidelines. If the installed part fails due to an "outside source"; i.e. damage inflicted upon the part that causes the part to fail then it is usually not covered. Let's look at an example: Say Joe's garage put a thermostat in your vehicle 6 months ago. Yesterday your car overheated because of a faulty water pump (leaking, locked pulley, etc.) and now your new thermostat is sticking because the car overheated. Technically that thermostat did not fail of its own accord. It was damaged due to overheating. The point is, find a shop that you are comfortable with. Build a relationship and have them earn your trust. Ask to see faulty parts, get the rep. to explain why the failure occured and if anything could have been done to prevent it. We are no different than doctors, we just work on your car, not your body.