How Long Can a Repair Shop Keep Your Car? Understanding Your Rights

Typical Repair Timeframes

Most routine repairs should be completed within 3-5 business days. However, more complex issues or parts availability can extend this timeline. Generally, insurance companies and warranties expect repairs to be completed within 15-20 days, with a maximum of 30 days cumulatively.

If your car has been at the shop for an extended period, it’s important to stay in communication with the mechanic. Ask for regular updates and a clear explanation of any delays.

Legal Considerations

While there’s no federal law specifying how long a shop can keep your car, some states have regulations in place:
• California: Shops must provide a written estimate if repairs will exceed $500 or take longer than 24 hours.
• Florida: Repair shops must notify customers if the repair will take longer than the original estimate.
• New York: Shops must provide a written estimate for repairs over $100 and cannot exceed this estimate by more than 10% without customer approval.

Check your local laws to understand your rights in your specific area.

When to Take Action

If you feel your car has been at the shop for an unreasonable amount of time, consider these steps:

Communicate clearly with the shop about your concerns.
Request a detailed explanation of the delay in writing.
If unsatisfied, file a complaint with your local consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau.
In extreme cases, consult with a lawyer specializing in consumer rights.

Protecting Yourself

To avoid prolonged repair times:
• Choose reputable shops with good reviews and clear communication practices.
• Get all repair estimates and timelines in writing.
• Understand your warranty coverage and any time limits it may impose.
• Keep detailed records of all communications with the repair shop.

Remember, while patience is often necessary for quality repairs, you have the right to clear communication and reasonable timelines from your chosen repair shop.