Navigating Florida's Motor Vehicle Repair Regulations:
Welcome to Kyle's Auto Repair – a beacon of honesty in the automotive repair industry, proudly women and veteran-owned. Founded in DeLand, Florida, by Florida locals, we are dedicated to providing transparent, fair services, free from the overpricing and obscurity often seen in auto shops.
The Kyle's Auto Repair Difference: Transparency and Trust: At Kyle's Auto Repair, we're not just about fixing cars; we're about building trust. Our labor pricing is upfront, and we avoid the 'dentist office effect' of surprise bills – which, as per Florida law, is not allowed. We base our rates on industry-standard book times, offering honest quotes and documenting all findings for the customer to see.
For instance, we once serviced a car where the client suspected locked-up brakes and as such, requested a quote for rear brakes. It turned out the drivers side rear hub assembly needed replacement, so bad the wheel flopped around like an inflatable punching bag with a sand weight in the bottom. We promptly sent our customer a video of this occurring along with an updated quote to repair. They approved the repair right away. We already had that whole wheel disassembled. So it cost only minimal additional labor to replace the whole hub assembly. Allowing us to cut the labor time on the hub assembly repair down, as we already had the wheel off and mostly everything else ready to go from the brake job.
Customer Testimonials: The Proof of Our Promise: Our commitment to transparency and customer education is best reflected in what our clients say:
Lumarie C: "Kyle is fantastic... He took the time to explain all issues... Highly recommend!"
Brian F: "Great work... very professional. Excellent customer service... Very satisfied."
Ken C: "Had brakes repaired... Fast service, very professional job."
Veronica D: “Kyle did amazing work on my partners vehicle. Highly recommend for any auto repair needs. He has definitely gained new clients.”
These testimonials underscore our reputation as a "female-friendly" business, committed to not taking advantage of our customers, but rather educating them about their cars, with photos, videos and diagrams. It is important to us that you understand somewhat, what you’re paying for, a little education goes a long way to prevent a poor experience.
Unique Services and Community Commitment: Our unique services include on-site simple diagnostics. For $90, we come to you for a comprehensive diagnostic scan, providing a report and a visual inspection at your location. If you proceed with repairs, we credit 50% of the diagnostic fee off your first repair labor charge.
We view our customers as family and are deeply committed to our community, treating everyone with respect and kindness.
Understanding Your Rights Under the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act: The Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act protects consumers in auto repair situations. It's important for vehicle owners to understand their rights, especially regarding repair costs and shop practices.
Estimate Requirements and Billing Rights: Shops must provide options for a written estimate for repairs over $100. We adhere to this by providing upfront estimates and seeking approval for any additional costs.
Actions When Estimates Are Exceeded: If the final bill is over $10 or 10% higher than the authorized estimate, the shop cannot hold your vehicle against your will. You have the right to file a bond and obtain a certificate directing the shop to release your vehicle.
Filing a Complaint: If you need to file a complaint about a motor vehicle repair shop, use the FDACS online complaint form or call 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352).
What to Do If a Shop Tries to Keep Your Car: If a repair shop attempts to withhold your vehicle due to a dispute over the repair bill, especially if it exceeds the final estimate without your consent, Florida law provides you with clear steps to resolve the situation:
Filing a Bond: You can obtain a copy of the bill and file a bond for the amount of the final repair bill plus any storage charges with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where the shop is located.
Obtaining a Release Certificate: The clerk will issue a certificate directing the shop to release your vehicle. A law enforcement officer can assist in delivering this certificate to the shop if necessary.
Legal Recourse: The repair shop has 60 days to file a lawsuit to recover the bond as payment for the repair. If the shop does not sue within 60 days, the clerk will return the bond money to you. However, the shop can still file a lawsuit after the release of the bond money.
Additional Actions: If the shop refuses to release your car after receiving the certificate, you have several options:
Consult an attorney and pursue legal action against the shop. The prevailing party in such a lawsuit may receive attorney's fees and court costs.
Contact the State Attorney's Office to file criminal charges against the shop, as it's a misdemeanor for the shop to refuse to release your car under these circumstances.
The Clerk of the Circuit Court can provide you with a form to file a lawsuit against the shop if needed.
Remember, you are entitled to fair and transparent treatment under the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act. At Kyle's Auto Repair, we ensure that our practices align with these legal standards, guaranteeing transparency and trust in all our services
For more details on your rights, visit the FDACS Motor Vehicle Repair page and the FDACS Consumer Rights and Responsibilities page.
