Automobiles

Vehicle Repairs

The best recommendation on selecting a repair shop may come from your friends and neighbors. To find out if there are any complaints against the repair shop, contact the Pinellas County Office of Consumer Protection through our website or at (727) 464-6200.
The Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act requires that a consumer be given a written estimate if the cost of repair is more than $100. The repair shop may not exceed the estimate by more than 10% unless the customer's permission is received. Consumers should not authorize any repairs without an estimate.
A second opinion is always a good idea when you are considering a major repair.
Make sure the repair invoice lists all the problems that you described and that all warranty information is provided in writing.

Buying a Vehicle

Educate yourself before buying a new or used vehicle. Shop around, compare sales prices and be prepared to negotiate.
Purchasing a used car "AS IS" means that there is no expressed or implied warranty. Federal Law requires that warranty information be displayed on all used cars.
Be aware that there is no three day cancellation period when purchasing a new or used car.
Clues that a car may have sustained flood damage include: cars with new upholstery or carpeting, musty or moldy smell, and contamination of oil, brake and transmission fluids.
Best advice is to have a trusted mechanic check out used cars prior to purchase.

If you have any questions about any of the procedures mentioned here, contact the Pinellas County Office of Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200.