I took 17 years to get my old car for repair work done and the final bill came to 286th 10 more than the estimate. It was increased approximately 25%. Of course, you will always be something else to fix an old car. Most of the shops I got to B4 approval performaing additional tasks. When this happens, would be reduced by a law in Colorado, please point me in the direction to find the relevant law books.
![[Google]]( http://www.autobodyshoptoronto.com/wp-content/plugins/easy-adsenser/google-light.gif)
It would be amazing to have a law like that. 25% jump is reasonable.
When the price jumps up 75% is where they get concerned.
Understand the “legal” terms. An “estimate” is an estimated cost.
A “Quote” is what it will cost you. If they gave you a ‘quote’ and went over, then you have legal grounds.
In either event, they have the right to remove the parts they installed, and many do now days, if there is a dispute.
They should tell you just read in the work contract and see if they tell you they can charge more if it is not in writeing i would look into it….All shops should tell you before the do any aditional work
estimates are just that. they should have called you to OK any work above and beyond what was originally authorized. if you want to learn something from this experience, why don’t you just go over the itemized bill and see if everything related to the repair you originally authorized. then read the fine print on the printed estimate they gave you. it’s not that much money, and your car is fixed, right?
Here’s an example of the law in Montgomery County, Maryland:
“17. Does an auto repair shop have to give me a written estimate? What happens if the final bill exceeds the estimate?
Under County law, you are entitled to a written estimate if you ask for one and the repairs will cost more than $25. The repair shop must have a sign posted that advises you of this right. The shop is allowed to charge you for the time spent preparing a written estimate. The final repair bill may not exceed a written or oral estimate by more than 10% without your prior authorization. However, oral estimates are often hard to prove. “