Remember the days when a few guys in a truck would drive around a parking lot asking if you wanted to buy some stereo equipment? Dealing with auto body repair scammers is very similar. You might park your car, all set to run into a store to do a few errands, when a guy notices that your car has some damage. He offers to repair it right then and there, telling you it will be a perfect job and save you a lot of time and money. All you have to do is pay him “X” amount of cash.
Politely but adamantly tell him “no thanks,” then walk away. This is a classic scam. These “dent repair” scammers—or “dent gypsies,” as they are sometimes called—prey on people who are in a rush and not as informed as they should be. These scammers will either take your money and disappear the moment you are out of sight, or they will do a horrible job and make your car look and even run worse than before. Bondo, colored wax, and cheap paint is not the correct way to fix your car, and fraudulent repairs can be incredibly dangerous to you and your passengers.
How To Avoid Body Repair Scammers
Although the first example was set in a parking lot, according to Consumer Reports, auto repair shops may also use scams of their own. Too often they will try to scare you into an unnecessary repairs, so knowledge and information is key.
What can a consumer do? Having a trustworthy, honest and reliable auto repair shop is essential. According to the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud: “A trustworthy auto repair shop is vital to the safety of every motorist. Your shop can keep your vehicle running smoothly, fix dangerous crash damage, save you money, and protect you and your passengers from life-threatening harm while on the road.”
AutoAid is a AAA Approved, family-owned business that has been around since 1979. Our reputation is stellar because we have top mechanics, and our team is led by an I-Car Certified Technician. Plus, we offer personalized service, are active in the community, and will treat you like family. We have worked hard to not only build our business, but to make sure we are the best auto shop around. Not only do we give honest, clear and free estimates, but while your car is here for a service, we have a “Car & Truck Courtesy Check” that covers 38 separate vehicle points. But don’t just take our word for it. Our customers give us high marks and excellent reviews across the board.
Contact Us
If you want to know how to avoid auto body repair scammers, don’t forget that you have the power and right to say no. Do it firmly and walk away. And if you’re at another auto shop and are feeling pressured and confused, tell them you need another opinion, and come see AutoAid. Call AutoAid at (818) 305-6632 or set up an appointment online. Our goal is to make your experience as easy as possible, and to make you one of our many fans.