problem with car

[PaulaMummyKnowsBest]

I took my car to an independent garage yesterday and they told me it would cost £250 to fix my car.

They phoned today to say that the cr is ready for collection but that they "had" to fit an extra pipe so the bill is now £375.

They never phoned to ask me if I wanted the extra pipe fitted and I feel a bit cross that the bill is now 50% more than they said it would be.

Where do I stand legally? I didn't have the original quote in writing so does that mean that I just have to pay the extra £125?

hmmm. well, you could demand they take the pipe out and only charge you the original fee.

i don't think you can refuse to pay for the part they have fitted if you want to keep it

iirc garage repairs are the only thing where the contractor, the garage, has the right to keep the goods as a lien over the unpaid bill.

So, unfortunately, unless you pay, you won't get your car back. Could you agree to pay half the extra as they didn't ring you to agree the repair.

Only alternative really, is to go somewhere else next time.

I would pay up but complain loudly that they should have consulted you before adding the extra pipe on (my garage would do that).

And not go there again... and name and shame to all your local mates!!

But as unexpected car bills go that is not bad. :(