The provincial government is putting in place news rules on July 1 to protect Manitoba families 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. This announcement was made by Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau.
“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 Rondeau. “These new rules for vehicle repairs will ensure that, when Manitobans are dealing with repair shops, they have greater protections and have the information needed to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.”
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;
- obtain 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;
- offer consumers their old parts and provide them, if requested; and
- display a sign with specific information about rights and protections for consumers, as well as obligations of repairers.
The new regulations were developed in consultation with industry, stakeholders, consumer groups and other provinces with existing car repair legislation, said the minister.
“CAA Manitoba is proud to support this legislation,” said Randy Holyk, corporate marketing manager, CAA Manitoba. “It will give Manitobans confidence that all mechanic shops are held to the same high standards.”
Manitoba’s Consumer Protection Office will oversee compliance and enforcement, which will include the authority to issue administrative penalties, Rondeau said.
“Repairing today’s vehicles can be complex, particularly with the increased use of computers and electronics. As a result, Manitobans may feel vulnerable when dealing with repair shops,” Rondeau said. “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.”
The Manitoba government committed to addressing car repairs in Let’s Make a Better Deal, Manitoba’s five-year plan for stronger consumer protection. Clearer rules for cellphone contracts, limits on payday loan and debt settlement agency fees, and new home warranty legislation have also been introduced as part of the plan.
