[FL] [FL] How do I handle a repair shop that is ignoring my request for reimbursement?
I purchased a used car from a dealership. Before taking possession, we heard a noise from the differential, so we had the dealer take the car to a local shop for repairs under warranty. When I got the vehicle back, everything seemed fine until about 3 weeks later the car got extremely loud. So I took it to my local dealer, and they found that during the repair on the differential, the repair shop had punctured my exhaust and tried covering it up (instead of replacing it) with some type of patch that ended up failing.
I have called and spoken to the service manager and emailed the general manager but I’m being ignored. I’d like to send a 5-day demand letter for compensation for what I’ve currently paid and what it will cost to repair. Am I handling this correctly?
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I appreciate all the information you’ve shared and I’m ready with your answer. After you review it, please let me know if anything is unclear or if you have any questions.
Here are a few options:
- Start with a demand letter
Clearly outline what happened, what you want ($3,933.00), and give a reasonable deadline for a response — 5 days is fine.
Also suggest that you’re prepared to take further action if necessary.
You can send it yourself or have a local attorney do it for added impact. Keep a copy for your records. - Small claims court
If they ignore your letter, filing in small claims court is a direct way to get attention and possibly a resolution. - File complaints
With the Florida Attorney General’s Office and the Better Business Bureau — both are free, effective options. - Online reviews
Posting honest and detailed reviews can be a powerful way to get a response.
Businesses often act fast to resolve disputes once their reputation is on the line.
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An auto repair shop damaged my car and tried to hide it. I have called and spoken to the service manager and emailed the general manager but I’m being ignored. Am I handling this correctly?
Lexi, Chatbot
I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling ignored after reaching out to the service manager and general manager. Can you please tell me more about what happened?
I purchased a used car from a dealership on 2/11/2025. Before taking possession, we heard a noise from the differential, so we had the dealer take the car to a local shop for repairs under warranty. When I got the vehicle back, everything seemed fine until about 3 weeks later the car got extremely loud.
So I took it to my local dealer, and they found that during the repair on the differential, the repair shop had punctured my exhaust and tried covering it up (instead of replacing it) with some type of patch that ended up failing. This was all pointed out by my local dealership in writing.
I called and spoke to the service manager — she blew me off. I then emailed the general manager and have heard nothing as of now.
I’d like to send a 5-day demand letter for compensation for what I’ve currently paid and what it will cost to repair.
Lexi, Chatbot
Have you tried reaching out to any other individuals within the company regarding this issue?
Just the service manager and the general manager.
Lexi, Chatbot
Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you?
Rest assured they’ll be able to help with your situation.
I think that’s it.
Infolawyer
Hello and welcome to AskaLawyer! My name is Daniel, and I’m a licensed lawyer with over 21 years of experience. I’m really sorry you’re going through this, and I’ll do my best to help.
To make sure I fully understand your situation, I’d like to ask you a couple of questions:
- Given the circumstances, what outcome or result are you now seeking?
- Other than what you've shared, what else have you tried so far?
I want to be compensated for the repair costs.
I took the car to my local dealer and they found what they had done and provided me with a detailed description and pictures of the damage.
Infolawyer
Do you have a ballpark figure here?
$3,933.00
Infolawyer
I appreciate all the information you’ve shared and I’m ready with your answer. After you review it, please let me know if anything is unclear or if you have any questions.
Here are a few options:
- Start with a demand letter
Clearly outline what happened, what you want ($3,933.00), and give a reasonable deadline for a response — 5 days is fine.
Also suggest that you’re prepared to take further action if necessary.
You can send it yourself or have a local attorney do it for added impact. Keep a copy for your records. - Small claims court
If they ignore your letter, filing in small claims court is a direct way to get attention and possibly a resolution. - File complaints
With the Florida Attorney General’s Office and the Better Business Bureau — both are free, effective options. - Online reviews
Posting honest and detailed reviews can be a powerful way to get a response.
Businesses often act fast to resolve disputes once their reputation is on the line.
Infolawyer
I want to make sure you fully understand the answer. Do you have any questions about this information?
Great! Thank you so much!
Infolawyer
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