6 replies to this topic

[Lab1970]

Hi all, I have a question about my mini which was put in for repairs with a mechanic who has contributed to this forum in the past and has recommendations from many users.
My husband contacted him in June last year, they discussed the work to be done in detail and he emailed a quote which we accepted. He asked for 50% payment up front which we paid. The car was then transported to him. We were told the work would take a few weeks. We phoned a few weeks later to see if it was finished and were told problems with getting parts and it would be another few weeks. This pattern has continued for a year now, each time a different excuse and telling us it will be ready in a few weeks. We have asked for photos of the progress and he has sent nothing. We have been pleasant and patient in each contact with him but we are sick of waiting now and would like the car back whether finished or not, we have told him this via email and phone messages and he is not returning our calls. Looking for advice as to where to go next to start legal proceedings to have the vehicle returned. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

[TheFabMini]

If it was me id just drive to his workshop in a friendly manor and pop in and say you just want to see how things are coming along and work from there depending on the situation at the workshop. 

[ukcooper]

i hope it was not that place @ buxton ??????? if so forget your money and car .................

[KTS]

i hope it was not that place @ buxton ??????? if so forget your money and car .................

 

you'll have to excuse ukcooper, he has problems of his own (..and i do mean that sincerely..)

 

Primary consideration should be recovering your property from his premises.  After you've (..hopefully..) done that, you can look at legal redress

[Curley]

If it was me id just drive to his workshop in a friendly manor and pop in and say you just want to see how things are coming along and work from there depending on the situation at the workshop. 

This. Without knowing the scale of the work agreed I'd consider taking a trailer and enough boxes to bring a dismantled car home.

[Lab1970]

Thanks for the advice, the place is about 140 miles from us and we both work during the week so popping in hasn’t been a option but we will have to take a day off and go for a day trip!

[hunterg30]

I would not hand any money over from the start ,if they were honest and good you pay in stages if need be , just like people should do with building trades , you leave yourself open to get ripped off or end up with a car in bits . I have never had to pay any kind of a deposit when I have had to use a mechanic, I pay once the job is done