Auto Repair Fraud Lawyers in New York

Has an auto repair shop or dealership hit you with undisclosed charges, unnecessary repairs, bait and switch advertising, or parts that were not new? Trusting your vehicle to an unethical service department can lead to financial loss, unsafe vehicles, injuries, and even fatalities. Leeds Brown Law, P.C. investigates and litigates these schemes on behalf of consumers throughout New York and beyond.

What Is Auto Repair Fraud?

Auto repair fraud happens when a shop or dealership misrepresents services, parts, or pricing to increase profits. Common examples include fabricated problems, inflated labor hours, and billing for parts or services that were never provided.

Common Auto Repair and Service Department Schemes

• Undisclosed Fees and Add-ons: Charging shop supplies, hazardous materials, or administrative fees that were not disclosed before work began
• Unnecessary Repairs: Pressuring customers into services they do not need or replacing parts that are still functional
• Bait and Switch Advertising: Advertising a low-cost service, then upselling higher-priced work once the car is on the lift
• Refurbished or Used Parts Sold as New: Installing reconditioned components while billing for new OEM parts
• Inflated Estimates and Kickbacks: Estimates that hide cash kickbacks to adjusters or third parties
• Phantom Labor or Parts: Billing for diagnostics, inspections, or components never performed or installed
• Warranty and Service Contract Abuse: Misstating coverage to deny valid claims or steering to costlier out-of-pocket work

Red Flags You Should Not Ignore

• Refusal to return replaced parts upon request
• Vague or lump-sum invoices with no line items
• Pressure to approve repairs immediately without written estimate
• Different charges than what was quoted or advertised
• Vehicle problems that appear only after a service visit

Your Legal Rights

New York consumers are protected by state and federal consumer protection laws that prohibit deceptive and unfair business practices. When a shop misrepresents parts, services, or pricing, you may be entitled to:

• Refunds for unauthorized or unnecessary repairs
• Reimbursement for the difference between new and refurbished parts
• Compensation for vehicle damage, loss of use, and safety-related harms
• Statutory damages and attorneys’ fees in qualifying cases
• Relief through individual lawsuits or class actions

What To Do If You Suspect Auto Repair Fraud

1. Request a detailed written estimate and compare it to your final invoice
2. Ask for all replaced parts to be returned to you
3. Save texts, emails, estimates, and service orders
4. Document conversations and take photos of parts and repairs
5. Obtain a second opinion from a reputable shop
6. Speak with an auto repair fraud attorney about your options

How Leeds Brown Law Can Help

Our team has brought claims involving inflated estimates that hid cash kickbacks, refurbished parts billed as new, and a range of deceptive practices by service departments. We investigate quickly, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve through negotiation or litigation.

Contact an Auto Repair Fraud Lawyer Today

If you believe a shop or dealership defrauded you, Leeds Brown Law, P.C. can help. We represent drivers across New York City, Long Island, and surrounding areas in holding service departments and dealerships accountable.

Call Leeds Brown Law, P.C. at (516) 873-9550 or submit our online contact form for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recover money if I approved the repair?

Yes, approval does not excuse deception. If the authorization was obtained through misrepresentation or key costs were not disclosed, you may still have a claim.

Do I need the old parts?

They help. Requesting returned parts can prove whether new components were actually installed and whether refurbished items were used.

Is this worth it for a small bill?

Individual amounts add up, and some cases are appropriate for class actions. We will evaluate the facts and advise on the most effective path forward.