4 Ways to File a Complaint Against an Auto Repair Shop

Unfortunately, complaints against auto repair shops are common nationwide.

There are 4 main ways to file a complaint against an auto repair shop:

1. Send a demand letter.
2. File a BBB complaint.
3. File in small claims.
4. File a complaint with a government agency.

Save this article for future reference as you may need to try multiple ways of filing a complaint to resolve your problem with the auto repair shop.

Did you know that we have a free tool powered by AI that helps you create a demand letter to an auto repair shop? Check out our demand letter tool.

Option 1: Send a Demand Letter

A demand letter outlines the problem you are having with the auto repair shop, what action you would like the shop to take and a deadline for when they need to take that action.

For example, if the auto shop damaged your speakers while fixing the doors, you could proceed to write a demand letter demanding reimbursement for the cost of replacing the speakers.

Here is what you can consider including in your demand letter:

• How much money you are owed.
• Why are you owed money.
• Where to send payment.
• A deadline when you expect a response.

A demand letter is an effective way to let the auto repair ship know you are serious about your complaint and are willing to escalate the problem until they have resolved it.

Did you know that we have a free tool powered by AI that helps you create a demand letter to an auto repair shop? Check out our demand letter tool.

Here is a video on how our demand letter tool works:

Option 2: File a BBB Complaint

• Businesses accredited with the BBB can have their accreditation revoked if they do not respond and the complaint would become part of their profile.
• Unaccredited businesses will have the complaint become part of their BBB profile.
• Negative BBB reviews can hurt a business’s reputation.

Before filing the BBB complaint, review the auto shop’s profile on the BBB to determine if they have a history of responding to complaints. If they have left their complaints unresponded to, you may be wasting your time filing a complaint with the BBB.

Once you file your complaint against the auto repair shop, the BBB will forward your complaint to them within 2 business days. The business will be asked to respond within 14 days and you will be notified of the business’s response when the BBB receives it or if the business fails to respond.

Option 3: Sue the Auto Repair Shop in Small Claims

If your previous attempts at resolution have been unsuccessful, it may be time to take the auto repair shop to small claims court.

Each state has a different process for small claims court, so make sure to check out our 50-state guide to small claims court.

Here are some quick facts about suing an auto repair shop in small claims:

• The maximum amount you can sue for ranges between $2,500 and $25,000.
• The filing fees range between $0 and $125.
• You may also need to pay to notify the auto repair shop about the lawsuit (serving), and this can range from $0 and $125.

Option 4: Government Complaint

To address the high level of consumer complaints, some states have created government agencies to regulate and license mechanics and auto repair shops. If you have a problem with an auto repair shop, you may want to consider a complaint with a state agency.
If your state does not have a specific agency, you may still be able to file a consumer complaint with the state Attorney General’s Office. Below we have compiled a guide to help you determine how your state accepts a complaint against an auto repair shop.

Alabama

In Alabama, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Alabama, you can file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General's Office.

How to file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General's Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office is by submitting the Online Consumer Complaint Form. Attachments and supporting documents can be emailed to [email protected]
• Questions? The Attorney General’s Office also has two consumer hotlines you may call if you need assistance: 1-800-392-5658 or 334-242-7335.

Alaska

In Alaska, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Alaska, you can file a complaint with the Alaska Attorney General's Office (referred to as the Alaska Department of Law).

How to file a complaint with the Alaska Attorney General's Office:

• By mail. Mail a Motor Vehicle Complaint Form and any copies of relevant documents related to the complaint to the address at the top of the form.
• By email. Once completed, the Motor Vehicle Complaint Form and any copies of relevant documents related to the complaint can be emailed to [email protected]
• By drop off. You can also drop off the Motor Vehicle Complaint Form and any copies of relevant documents related to the complaint to the Attorney General’s offices in Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau.
• Questions? Any questions you may have can be directed to these hotlines: 907-269-5201; 1-888-576-2529.

Arizona

In Arizona, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Arizona, you can file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General.

How to file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General:

• Online. Submit the Online Consumer Complaint Form on the Attorney General’s Office website.
• By email. If you’d prefer to email your complaint along with supporting documentation, you can do so by completing the form above and emailing it to [email protected]
• By fax. If you’d prefer to fax your completed form, you can do so by faxing it to (602)-542-4579.
• By Mail. You can mail a completed Consumer Complaint Form to either of the two mailing addresses below:

Office of the Attorney General,

Consumer Information and Complaints

2005 N Central Ave

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Office of the Attorney General,

Consumer Information and Complaints

400 W. Congress, South

Building, Suite 315

Tucson, AZ 85701-1367

• Questions? There are three consumer information and Complaints helplines that can answer consumer questions: (602) 542-5763 (Phoenix); (520) 628-6648 (Tucson); (800) 352-8431 (outside metro Phoenix).

Arkansas

In Arkansas, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Arkansas, you can file a complaint with the Arkansas Attorney General. The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division also publishes guides and tips regarding automobile purchases and repairs.

How to file a complaint with the Arkansas Attorney General:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Arkansas is by submitting an online Consumer Complaint.
• By mail. A Consumer Complaint Form may be downloaded and mailed to the mailing address at the bottom of the Consumer Complaint Form.
• By email. A Consumer Complaint Form may be downloaded and emailed to [email protected] .
• Questions? There are two numbers you can call: 501-682-2007; 1-800-482-8982.

California

In California, any individual or business that repairs, alters, or diagnoses malfunctions of motor vehicles must register as an Automotive Repair Dealer with the Bureau of Automotive Repair.

Check out our article for an in-depth guide for filing a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in the state of California. We see these complaints very often in California. The Bureau of Automotive Repairs will provide the results of the investigation to the court if you need to escalate to small claims.

Colorado

In Colorado, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Colorado, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General.

How to file a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop with the Colorado Attorney General is by submitting an Online Consumer Complaint form.
• Questions? You can contact the Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-222-4444 if you have any questions or need additional information.

Connecticut

All Connecticut motor vehicle dealers, repairers, leasing companies, and manufacturers must be licensed by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Connecticut, you can file a complaint with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles or with the Connecticut Attorney General.

How to file a complaint with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles:

• Not all consumer issues against a mechanic or auto repair shop are investigated by the DMV. Review the list of issues handled by the DMV here.
• By mail. File your consumer complaint form by mailing two printed copies of the consumer complaint form to the DMV Consumer Complaint Center (review mailing address options at the bottom of this link) AND the auto repair shop that you are complaining against.

How to file a complaint with the Connecticut Attorney General:

• Online. If you’d like to file a complaint with the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office, complete the E-Complaint form online.

Delaware

In Delaware, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Delaware, you can file a complaint with the Delaware Attorney General (referred to as the Department of Justice).

How to file a complaint with the Delaware Attorney General:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Delaware is by submitting a Consumer Complaint Statement.
• Questions? If, for whatever reason, you are unable to fill out the Consumer Complaint Statement, please call (800) 220-5424 or e-mail [email protected] for assistance.

Florida

The Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act requires anyone who is paid to repair motor vehicles owned by other individuals to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Florida, you can file a complaint with the agencies below.

• Online. The best way to file a claim against a mechanic or auto repair shop with the FDACS is by submitting a complaint through their online Motor Vehicle Repair Consumer Complaint Form.
• By mail. You can download the Motor Vehicle Repair Consumer Complaint Form and mail the completed form to the address at the top of the form.
• Questions? You can call FDACS at 1-800-HELP-FLA and ask for assistance if needed.

How to file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. File a complaint with the Florida Attorney General’s Office online by filling out this online form.
• By mail. You may also mail your complaint by downloading the Florida Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form and mailing it to this address at the top of the form.
• Questions? You can speak to a representative at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM.

Filing a complaint with a specific Florida County:

• In Florida, some counties provide their own consumer complaint forms. We recommend you search for your specific county and check if this is the case.
• For example, Miami-Dade County has its own consumer complaint form that consumers can fill out if they have a dispute with a business or individual within Miami-Dade county. Further, in Miami-Dade County, any business or individual that performs or offers to perform repair work on any motor vehicle has to register with the County. Look through your local Florida county for similar registration requirements.

Georgia

In Georgia, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Georgia, you can file a complaint with the Georgia Attorney General’s Office (referred to as the Georgia Department of Law).

How to file a complaint with the Georgia Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint with the Georgia Attorney General is by submitting an online complaint through the attorney general website
• By mail. You can download the Consumer Complaint Form found using this link and submit the form by mail to the address at the top of the form.
• By fax. If faxing your completed consumer complaint form is easiest, you can fax it to 404-651-9018.
• By phone. If you’d rather speak to someone about your complaint, you can reach the Georgia Attorney General at 404-651-8600 or 1-800-869-1123 (Toll-free).

Hawaii

In Hawaii, the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (CCA) Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Board licenses both motor vehicle repair dealers and mechanics. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Hawaii, you can file a complaint with the CCA.

How to file a complaint with the CCA:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint with the CCA is by submitting a formal complaint online.
• By mail. You can also download, print, and mail your complaint form to the mailing address below.

Office of Consumer Protection

235 S. Beretania St.,

Room 801 Honolulu, HI 96813

• Questions? If you wish to Contact the CCA, you can reach them at their hotline at (808)-586-2630. Or you can send an email with your questions to [email protected] .

Idaho

In Idaho, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Idaho, you can file a complaint with the Idaho Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Idaho Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. To file a complaint online, complete the online form.
• By mail. After filling out the online form, you can mail in the form to:

Consumer Protection Division

954 W. Jefferson, 2nd Floor

P.O. Box 83720

Questions? Any questions can be directed to the Attorney General's Office at 208-334-2424.

Illinois

In Illinois, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Illinois, you can file a complaint with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. You can submit a complaint to the Attorney General’s office by filling out the form online.
• By mail. If you prefer to mail the consumer complaint form, you can download, fill out, and mail the Consumer Complaint Form to the mailing address at the top of the form. You can also attach copies of supporting documents like contracts, letters, or any other documents that relate to your complaint to the form.
• Questions? Any questions you may have can be directed to the Attorney General’s Office phone number at 618-529-6400 or 1-800-243-0607 (Toll-Free).

Indiana

In Indiana, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Indiana, you can file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Indiana is by submitting an online form.
• By mail. You can also download and fill out this Consumer Complaint Form and mail it along with copies of any supporting documents to the mailing address found on the second page of the Consumer Complaint Form.
• By Fax. You can also fax the Consumer Complaint Form to (317)-233-4393.
• Questions? If you have any questions about filing your claim, you may contact the Indiana Attorney General at (317)-232-6330.

Iowa

In Iowa, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Iowa, you can file a complaint with the Iowa Department of Justice Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Iowa is by submitting an Online Consumer Complaint form. Make sure to include copies of any relevant documents.
• By mail. You can also download and send a Consumer Protection Complaint Form and mail it to the address at the top of the form. Make sure to also mail copies of any relevant documents along with your Consumer Protection Complaint Form.
• Questions? To contact the Iowa Attorney General’s Office, you can call either 515-281-5926 or 888-777-4590. You can also send the Office an email at [email protected] with any questions.

Kansas

In Kansas, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Kansas, you can file a complaint with the Kansas Office of the Attorney General.

How to file a complaint with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. To submit a claim with the Kansas Attorney General, you must first fill out a Consumer Investigation request. You will need to submit supporting documentation along with your complaint.
• By mail. You can also submit an investigation request form by mail to the address listed at the top of the form. You will need to mail supporting documentation along with your complaint.
• Questions? Contact the Kansas Attorney General’s Office at (785)-296-3751 or at (800)-432-2310.

If you or the mechanic you are filing against is in Douglas, Johnson, Sedgwick, or Wyandotte County, you may want to file your complaint with the local district attorney’s office in those counties using the links above.

Kentucky

In Kentucky, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Kentucky, you can file a complaint with the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop with the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office is to submit an online Consumer Complaint and Mediation Request Form.
• By mail. You can mail your complaint by downloading a Consumer Mediation Request Form and mailing two copies and two copies of any documents related to your complaint to the address found at the top of the form.
• By phone. Call the Consumer Protection Division at (502)-696-5389 or 888-432-9257 (select option #3 to file a complaint by phone.

Louisiana

In Louisiana, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Louisiana, you can file a complaint with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. The easiest way to file your claim is by filling out the online Consumer Dispute Form.
• By mail. File a consumer complaint by using the printable consumer dispute form and mailing it to the address at the top of the form.
• By Phone. You can also call the Consumer Protection Hotline at (800)-351-4889 to submit a consumer complaint.

Maine

In Maine, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Maine, you can file a complaint with the Maine Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Maine Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. To file a complaint or request mediation, you can complete and submit an online form along with any supporting documents.
• By Mail. You can also send a written complaint to the mailing address below:

Attorney General's Consumer Information and

Mediation Service

6 State House Station Augusta,

Maine 04333

• By phone. The Maine Attorney General offers a free mediation service to resolve consumer issues with businesses like auto repair shops. Call the Office at (207) 626-8849 or (800) 436-2131 (toll-free line).
• By email. You can also request assistance by sending an email to [email protected] .

Maryland

In Maryland, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Maryland, you can file a complaint with the following agencies:

How to file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. If you wish to file a complaint online, you can do so by filling out the online form.
• Questions? To speak with someone over the phone, call the Attorney General’s Office at 410-576-6550 or 1-888-743-0023 (Toll-free line).

Filing a complaint with a specific Maryland County Consumer Protection Office:
Some counties in Maryland have their own Consumer Protection Office that handles complaints from those living in that county or against businesses in that specific county. For example, Howard County and Montgomery County. Confirm whether your county has a consumer protection office that handles complaints against local businesses by searching online.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, Motor Vehicle Damage Repair Shops and Motor Vehicle Glass Repair Shops have to be registered with the Massachusetts Division of Standards. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Massachusetts, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. You can file a consumer complaint online.
• By mail. You can download and fill out the complaint form and mail it to the address at the top of the form.
• In-person. Consumers may also be able to file a complaint in person at any one of the Attorney General's Office locations.
• Questions? Call the Consumer Hotline at (617) 727-8400.

Michigan

In Michigan, you must be certified by the state to perform repairs on motor vehicles. The Michigan Department of State is responsible for licensing, registering, and regulating vehicle dealers, repair facilities, and mechanics. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Michigan, you can file a complaint with the following agencies:

How to file a complaint with the Michigan Department of State:

• Online. File a complaint online using the link here.
• By mail. File an Automotive Complaint form and mail it along with any supporting documents to the mailing address below:

Michigan Department of State

Regulatory Monitoring Division

PO Box 30046

Lansing, MI 48909-7546

• By fax. Fill out the Automotive Complaint form and fax it to (517)-335-3192.
• By email. Fill out the Automotive Complaint form and email it to [email protected] .

How to file a complaint with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint with the Michigan Attorney General is by completing the Online Consumer Complaint/Inquiry Form.
• Questions? If you have questions about filing a complaint, please call (517)-335-7599. In-state residents can also call 877-765-8388.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Minnesota, you can file a complaint with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint with the Minnesota Attorney General is by submitting a completed Consumer Assistance Request Form.
• Questions? If you have any questions or wish to follow up on your complaint, you can reach out to (651)-296-3353 or 1-800-657-3787 (toll-free line).

Mississippi

In Mississippi, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Mississippi, you can file a complaint with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint with the Minnesota Attorney General is by submitting a completed Consumer Complaint Form online.
• By email. You can also send an email to a consumer protection mediator at [email protected]
• Questions? For any doubts or if you wish to speak with someone at the Attorney General’s Office, call (601)-359-4230 or 1-800-281-4418 (toll-free number).

Missouri

In Missouri, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Missouri, you can file a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or an auto repair shop is by completing the online Consumer Complaint Form.
• By mail. You can also file your complaint by filling out a Consumer Complaint Form and mailing it to the address at the top of the form.
• By phone. You can also call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-392-8222 to file your complaint by phone.

Montana

In Montana, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Montana, you can file a complaint with the Montana Attorney General’s Office (referred to as the Montana Department of Justice).

How to file a complaint with the Montana Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or an auto repair shop is by completing the online Consumer Complaint Form.
• By mail. Download and fill out the Consumer Complaint Form and mail it to the mailing address at the top of the form. Make sure to enclose any copies of documents relating to your complaint.
• Questions? If you’d like to talk to someone about your complaint, you can call (406)-444-4500 or 800-481-6896.

Nebraska

In Nebraska, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Nebraska, you can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or an auto repair shop is by filling out the online Consumer Complaint Form.
• By mail. Download and fill out the Consumer Complaint Form and mail it to the mailing address at the top of the form.
• Questions? If you’d rather talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call the Office of the Attorney General at 402-471-2682 or 1-800-727-6432 (Toll-Free line).

Nevada

In Nevada, garages or body shops (that engage in repairs and replacement services on motor vehicles) are required to register with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”). If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Nevada, you can file a complaint with the following agencies:

How to file a complaint with the DMV Compliance Enforcement Division:

• By mail. Download and fill out a Compliance Enforcement Compliant Form. Mail the completed form to either the Las Vegas or Reno office address found on page 2 of the form.
• By phone. Call the Carson City, Las Vegas, or Reno offices to file a complaint by phone. Find the phone numbers here.

How to file a complaint with the Nevada Attorney General’s Office:

• Online: The easiest way to file a complaint against a mechanic or an auto repair shop is by filling out the online Consumer Complaint Form.
• By email: Additionally, if you’d like to contact the Office of the Attorney General regarding an opinion, inquiry, views, or concerns about specific issues, you can email them at [email protected] .
• Questions? If you’d rather talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call the Office of the Attorney General at (775)-684-1100 or 702-486- 3132 (Consumer Hotline).

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in New Hampshire, you can file a complaint with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office (referred to as the Department of Justice).

• Online: If you wish to file online, you will need to register with the State for filing forms online. Note– you will need to activate your account by clicking on a link that will be sent to your email address. When you have completed your registration, file your complaint electronically. Read the instructions, then scroll down and click on the link marked Begin Form Entry.
• By mail. Scroll down to the bottom of the page here and click on “Download Mail-in Form” for a downloadable copy of the complaint form that you can mail to the address at the top of the form.
• By email: Additionally, if you’d like to contact the Office of the Attorney General regarding an opinion, inquiry, views, or concerns about specific issues, you can email them at [email protected].
• Questions? If you’d rather talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call the Office of the Attorney General on Weekdays from 9 am to 3 pm at (603) 271-3641 or 1-888-468-4454.

New Jersey

In New Jersey, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in New Hampshire, you can file a complaint with the New Jersey Attorney General Division of Consumer Affairs.

How to file a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs:

• Online. File a complaint online using the link here.
• By mail. Download and fill out the Consumer Complaint Against a Business form and mail it to the mailing address at the top of the form.

New Mexico

In New Mexico, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in New Mexico, you can file a complaint with the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. If you’d like to file a complaint online, you can file an Electronic Complaint Submission (ECS).
• By mail. Additionally, if you’d like to submit your complaint via mail, you can mail your Consumer Complaint Form to the mailing address at the top of the form.
• Questions? If you’d like to talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call the Office of the Attorney General at 1-844-255-9210​ (Toll-Free line).

New York

In New York, businesses that repair motor vehicles must get certification from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The New York DMV has also set up a complaint process in order to help resolve complaints against mechanics and auto repair shops.

Check out our article for an in-depth guide for filing a complaint in the state of New York.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in North Carolina, you can file a complaint with the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. If you wish to complain online, fill out the Motor Vehicle Complaint here.
• By mail. If you want to send the complaint in by mail, use the following link to print the Motor Vehicle Complaint Form and mail it to the mailing address at the top of the form.
• By phone. Consumers can also submit complaints to the Attorney General by calling the Consumer Assistance line at (919) 716-6000 or 1-877-5-NO-SCAM (Toll-free within North Carolina).

North Dakota

In North Dakota, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. Further, it seems as though the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office does not handle mechanic/auto repair shop consumer complaints. See here. Confirm whether or not you can submit a complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop by calling the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office or by sending an email using the link here.

Ohio

In Ohio, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Ohio, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. If you wish to file online, you can file a Consumer Complaint on the Attorney General's website.
• By mail. You can also mail in your complaint by downloading and filling out a Consumer Complaint Form and mailing it to the mailing address on the third page of the form. You should also submit copies of documents related to your complaint, such as contracts and receipts, along with your complaint form.
• Questions? If you’d rather talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call the Office of the Attorney General at 614-466-4986 or 1-800-282-0515 (Toll-Free line).

Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Oklahoma, you can file a complaint with Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office.

• By mail. You can download and fill out the Consumer Complaint Form and mail it to the mailing address found at the bottom of the form.
• By email. File a consumer complaint with the Office of the Attorney General by downloading and completing the Consumer Complaint Form. Then, save the completed form as a PDF and email it to [email protected] with "Complaint" in the subject line. You may also attach any relevant documentation to your email.
• Questions? If you’d rather talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call a consumer representative who can be reached at 1-833-681-1895.

Oregon

In Oregon, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Oregon, you can file a complaint with the Oregon Attorney General’s Office (referred to as the Department of Justice).

How to file a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice:

• Online. If you wish to file online, you can file your complaint on the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection website.
• Questions? If you’d rather talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, you can call the Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392. Or email any concerns to [email protected] .

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Pennsylvania, you can file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office:

• Online. If you wish to file online, you can submit your complaint using the Attorney General Online Consumer Complaint Form.
• By mail. You can download and print the Consumer Complaint Form and mail it to the address at the top of the form.
• Questions? Additionally, if you’d like to contact the Office of the Attorney General regarding an opinion, inquiry, views, or concerns about specific issues, you can email them at [email protected] or call 1-800-441-2555 (PA ONLY) or 1-717-787-9707.

Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, the Division of Commercial Licensing and Regulation is responsible for regulating and licensing auto body shops in the state. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Rhode Island, you can file a complaint with the following agencies:

• By email. Leave any questions or complaints in an email here.

• Online. If you wish to file online, you can submit your complaint using the Attorney General Online Consumer Complaint Form.
• Questions? Additionally, if you’d like to contact the Office of the Attorney General, email them at [email protected] or call (401) 274-4400.

South Carolina

In South Carolina, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in South Carolina, you can file a complaint with the Department of Consumer Affairs.

How to file a complaint with the Department of Consumer Affairs:

• Online. You can submit a complaint online by creating an account using the link here.
• By mail. Download and fill out the Complaint Form and mail it to the address below:

PO BOX 5757

Columbia, SC 29250

South Dakota

In South Dakota, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in South Dakota, you can file a complaint with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.

How to file a complaint with the South Dakota Office of the Attorney General:

• Online: If you wish to file online, you can file your complaint using the online Consumer Complaint Form.
• By mail. Download the Consumer Complaint form and mail it to the address at the top of the form.
• By fax. You can download the Consumer Complaint form and fax it to (605) 773-7163.
• Questions? To talk to someone about your complaint over the phone, call the Office of the Attorney General at 1-800-300-1986 (in-state) or 1-605-773-6585.

Tennessee

In Tennessee, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Tennessee, you can file a complaint with the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. If you wish to file online, you can do so by submitting an online form.
• By email. Additionally, if you’d like to file a complaint by email, download the complaint form and email it to ​ [email protected] .
• By mail. Download the complaint form and return the form by mailing it to the address at the top of the form.

Texas

In Texas, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Texas, you can file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General’s Office.

• Online. If you wish to file online, you can file your complaint using the online Consumer Complaint form.
• By phone. You are able to report a complaint by calling the Attorney General of Texas Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-621-0508.
• By mail. You can also file a complaint by mail (download, fill out, and mail this form) to the mailing address at the bottom of the form.

See our article for a more detailed look into filing a claim with the Texas Attorney General.

Utah

In Utah, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Utah, you can file a complaint with the following agencies:

How to file a complaint with the Utah Attorney General’s Office:

• By mail. Download and complete the Attorney General’s Office Complaint Form and mail it to the address at the bottom of the form.
• By email. Email the completed Complaint Form to [email protected] .

How to file a complaint with the Department of Commerce:

• By phone. You can call the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Consumer Protection at (801) 530-6601 to speak with an investigator, as they will ask for information about your complaint over the phone.
• What the Department of Commerce will need to know to assist you over the phone:
  • The date and approximate time you experienced/witnessed excessive prices.
  • All known information about the Seller (name, business, address, email, phone, etc.).
  • Your contact information.
  • Any evidence you can provide (photos, screen captures, receipts, advertisements, etc.).

  In Vermont, mechanics or auto repair shops do have to register with certain state departments like the Vermont Department of Taxes. However, if you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Vermont, you can file a complaint with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office.

  How to file a complaint with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office:

  • Online. If you wish to file online, you can file your complaint using the Online Consumer Complaint Form.
  • By email. You can email the Vermont Attorney General’s Office at [email protected]

  Virginia

  In Virginia, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Virginia, you can file a complaint with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office.

  How to file a complaint with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office:

  • Online. If you wish to file online, you can complete the Virginia Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form.
  • By fax. If you’d like to file a complaint by Fax, you can download the Complaint Form and fax it to (804) 225-4378.
  • By mail. If you’d like to file a complaint by Mail, you can download the Complaint Form and return the form to the Richmond address on the first page of the form. If the incident occurred in Fairfax County, mail the form to the Fairfax office address (also on the first page of the form).
  • By phone. Call the Consumer Protection Hotline for further assistance at 1-800-552-9963 (Virginia) or (804) 786-2042.

  Washington

  In Washington, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Washington, you can file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s Office.

  • Online. If you wish to file online, you can complete and submit the General Consumer Complaint Form.
  • By mail. If you’d prefer to mail in your complaint form, download the form and ensure you include a return US Mail address, as well as your email address. Mail the completed form to the mailing address at the bottom of the form.
  • By phone. You can submit a complaint over the phone at 1-800-551-4636 (in-state only) or 1-206-464-6684 (out-of-state callers).

  West Virginia

  In West Virginia, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in West Virginia, you can file a complaint with the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office.

  How to file a complaint with the Office of the West Virginia Attorney General:

  • Online. If you wish to file online, you can complete and submit the Consumer Complaint Form.
  • By mail. If you’d prefer to mail in your complaint form, download and fill out the Consumer Complaint Form and mail it (with any copies of documents related to the complaint) to the address at the bottom of the form.
  • By email. Download and fill out the Consumer Complaint Form, and email the form and any additional documents related to the complaint in PDF format to [email protected] .

  Wisconsin

  In Wisconsin, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. In Wisconsin, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by the state. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Wisconsin, you can file a complaint with the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection.

  • Online. If you wish to file online, you can complete and submit the Online Motor Vehicle Repair Form Complaint.
  • By mail. To submit a complaint to DATCP by mail, download a Motor Vehicle Repair complaint form and mail it to the address at the bottom of the page.
  • Questions? Consumers can contact their hotline staff by email at [email protected] or through their toll-free hotline a​t (800) 422-7128.

  Wyoming

  In Wyoming, it seems mechanics or auto repair shops are not regulated by a specific state agency. If you have a consumer complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop in Wyoming, you can file a complaint with the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office.

  How to file a complaint with the Wyoming Attorney General:

  • Online. If you wish to file online, you need to complete and submit the Consumer Complaint Form. You can also submit documents to support your complaint along with the form.

  How to submit additional documents to the Wyoming Attorney General:

  • By mail. Submit additional documents to support your complaint, if available, by mail to the address below. Examples of documents include contracts, invoices, receipts, etc.

  Office of the Attorney General

  Consumer Protection and Antitrust Unit

  109 State Capitol

  Cheyenne, WY 82002
  By email. You may also email any supporting documents to [email protected] .

  File a Complaint With the Better Business Bureau

  The Better Business Bureau (“BBB”) is a nonprofit organization that serves as an intermediary between businesses and consumers. The BBB allows consumers to file complaints against all types of businesses, including mechanics/auto repair shops.

  How to submit your complaint against a mechanic or auto repair shop on the BBB website:

  1. Click here to go to the BBB website.
  2. Review the BBB criteria, then scroll down and click the button “File Your Complaint.”

  How the complaint process works:

  • After you file a complaint against the mechanic, the BBB will forward the complaint to the mechanic within 2 business days.
  • The mechanic will have 14 days to respond to your complaint.
  • You will then be notified of the mechanic’s response when the BBB receives it (or notified that they received no response).

  The BBB also allows consumers to file reviews against mechanics on their website here. Click the button that says “Start Review Process.”

  Alternative to Filing a Complaint: Suing in Small Claims Court

  If you don’t resolve the issue after filing a complaint, consider suing in a small claims case. Small claims courts were created as more affordable and informal courts for everyday people to resolve disputes against individuals and companies for smaller amounts of money (usually around $10,000). Because of the simplified procedures, people can also represent themselves. In some small claims courts, attorneys are not allowed.

  Common types of small claims lawsuits filed against mechanics:

  • Breach of contract. For example, you hire a mechanic to repair your car and but they don’t perform as per your contract agreement.
  • Damages to your car. For example, you took your car to a mechanic shop, and they damaged your car as they were repairing it.
  • Unreasonable charges or estimates. For example, you took your car to a mechanic shop and got an estimate for $400 to fix your brakes. However, when the work was completed, you were charged $1,000 for repairs not included in the estimate.

  Camila Lopez

  Legal Educator at JusticeDirect. Camila holds a law degree and is a certified mediator. Her passion is breaking down complicated legal processes so that people without an attorney can get justice.

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