The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Manitobans are about to gain greater protection from unreliable or dishonest mechanics. Effective July 1, the provincial government is putting in place new rules to protect drivers against unauthorized repairs, repairs costing more than the estimate, the use of refurbished parts without the consumer's knowledge and repairs that do not last. 'Buying a car is one of the most important purchases a family will make and we want to ensure we safeguard this purchase as much as possible,' said Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau. Under the new rules, repair shops must: offer written estimates to consumers for any repair over $100 and ensure final charges for the repair work are within 10 per cent of the estimate; provide a written invoice itemizing costs for parts, labour and other charges, which includes information about warranty terms and consumer rights; Êobtain authorization for repairs before they are made and record this information; provide warranties for all parts and associated labour, and disclose the terms of the warranties; Êoffer consumers their old parts and provide them, if requested; and Êdisplay a sign with specific information about rights and protections for consumers, as well as obligations of repairers. Manitoba's Consumer Protection Office will oversee compliance and enforcement, which will include the authority to issue administrative penalties, Rondeau said. The new regulations were developed in consultation with industry, stakeholders, consumer groups and other provinces with existing car repair legislation, he said. 'Repairing today's vehicles can be complex, particularly with the increased use of computers and electronics,' Rondeau said. 'As a result, Manitobans may feel vulnerable when dealing with repair shops. This new legislation takes what many businesses already do as good practice and makes it law, helping to ensure Manitobans get clear and fair treatment in all repair shops.' _ Compiled from a Government of Manitoba news release
