What does Certifying an Automobile consist of?

Question

My Pontiac Sunfire caught on fire on the highway within 24 hours of getting the vehicle certified for safety and e-tested. The fact is - I could have died in this incident; had the highway been busier and I was unable to escape.

I was forced to pay $265 for the towing of an ashy, written-off vehicle that was certified the day before and almost killed me. Some people would take advantage and try to sue for thousands of dollars.

I just want the money that I paid for towing - and a refund of the initial cost to certify the car. Its the principle here. Now, if the Auto Shop refuses to pay, could a lawer clearly indicate in court that the Auto Shop was at fault and should therefore be financially liable?

Thanks in Advance

Answer 1

firdt thing u need to know what started the fire.before anything happens. if it was just a spark from a shorted wire they it wont be an issue with the shop. if it is a fuel leak that started it then that should of been picked up on the test.

Answer 2

For a vehicle to be certified (where I live - Ontario) it must meet some pretty strict requirements. Here is a link of them all.

http://www.ontariolicences.com/ssc2.htm

e-testing also tests for things like gas tank or cap issues.

If you paid for and expected an up front safety, then I'd definitely call the garage up and demand that they cough up for your damages. They should have caught any electrical or fuel problems.

It's rare for a shop to do a poor job on a safety inspection on an unsuspecting customer, as they can be charged/sued for doing shoddy inspections. Most bad safeties are the result of someone paying off a mechanic to write up a "bum" safety without even looking at the vehicle because the driver knows the vehicle will not pass and cannot afford / doesn't want to make the necessary repairs.

Answer 3

I don't think I'd be so forgiving of this shop if I was you. I would tell my insurance company all about the shop and let them investigate. If you are not insured the shop that certified your car should be insured for this. If not get a very very good Att. and sue the hell out of them!!!!!!!!!!