Posted: 5/30/2011 6:42:30 AM EDT
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Hello Cali members, One of my troops was previously stationed in California, where he had to have some extensive engine work done on his car. He is then stationed here in Colorado, and his engine kills itself. Now, I don't know all of the issues yet, but it seems that it is going to cost him a considerable amount to have the car repaired. The mechanic in CA agreed to replace the parts, but refuses to pay for the labor to make the repairs. Apparently, this is going to be a few thousand dollars, and he's a young, married E-5 with kids. So, I thought I'd put out a request if there are any attorneys on here that might be able to help. If you might be able to help, feel free to shoot me an email. I was advised by an attorney on a local site that this would be Californian jurisdiction, and to seek legal help there. |
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Have him contact the California Bureau of Automotive Repair: CAL B.A.R. to get an opinion and maybe a recomendation on what he can do. Does his previous duty station have a legal office that can advise on problems off post?
The problem with the situation is that the mechanic that did the original work has offered to pay for parts. Unless he has written a warranty that covers labor too, it will be tough to get more than the offer. From a legal standpoint, it may be equally expensive to get the money for the labor as the cost of the labor itself. It then falls into the problem of collecting a civil judgement, which isn't easy or cheap. Does anyone on your post have a buddy that is a mechanic that can do the work cheaper? Base auto hobby shop? I'm not an attorney, but had a similar problem with a transmission from a car dealer in CA, so I know the way down this road. For me, it didn't make sense to pursue legal action due to fthe fact that the costs didn't make economic sense. I know he is pissed and you are pissed, but take the emotional element out of it and look at it from cost vs. gain before choosing action. Another route is to contact the local Better Business Bureau in the town where the mechanic has his shop. Local media may also enjoy investigating a story about shops ripping off soldiers, too. Good luck and it's commendable that you are looking out for one of your guys. |
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If the shop offered to pay for parts... He should take it and run...
Finding a shop to install parts should be easy also, Labor should be cheaper out there then it is here... Tell your buddy next time try and fix it himself... Cars are simple all you need to do is know how the internet works and be able to read at 6th grade level... 
If I were your buddy I wouldn't try to get into a court room over labor... |