Bodyshop Ripped Up Clearcoat With Masking Tape and Doesn't Want To Take Responsibility?

Question

I am having a nightmare experience at this bodyshop. Originally I took my car in for minor fender-bender repairs, which took over a month to complete for some reason. Then, when I got my car back the first time, there was a new gash on the other side of the car which they were responsible for. They at first denied it, then agreed to fix it. So then, they kept my car for another week, then when I went to pick up the car, there was a spot about the size of a dollar bill on the passenger's side door where the clearcoat was pulled up and some had chipped off. It sticks out like a sore thumb. The bodyshop says that it happened when they pulled the masking tape off of the door, and that they're not responsible to fix it because supposedly that part of the car had been painted previously and it's not their workmanship. (I've had my car for 5 years- it is 10 years old.) My paint has never looked so awful. What should I do?

Answer 1

If they do not want to take responsibility get your information together and speak with the owner of the company. If he is unwilling to do anything about it take them to small claims. If the damage was done in their shop no matter the work then they are responsible. They have to PROVE that the car had been repainted and that's why it was chipping and flaking. Take lots of pictures and make sure you have all the paper work. BTW was this an insurance claim? If so contact your insurance company as well before going to small claims. They have more sway in how and who to take cars too to be repaired. they may be able to help you out.

Answer 2

I know a lot of people will suggest involving a lawyer, which you might have to do, but first try to deal with the top person of the company. Do this in writing, and send it certified so you have a record of the letter being received. Another thing you can consider is if any local new stations do one of those consumer advocacy things where they report upon a problem someone is having with a company, and then they try to resolve it. They almost always can since the companies don't want bad publicity. Good luck.

Answer 3

I would tell them to fix it or you will get a lawyer involved.
mail them a registered letter telling them about your complaint and what you want done. That way you have a legal record of what you asked for.
If they still don't do it you can take them to smal claims court.

getting a lawyer involved would probably cost too much but the threat of one can be a great asset.

I would also never ever take my car back to that place. file a complaint with the better business bureau and tell all your friends about the lousy job they did.

Answer 4

Call your insurer. They'll deal with the shop and the shop's insurer. It won't hurt your rates unless you collect from your own insurance company. They'll at least give you some good free advice.