Should I pay up? Garage bill.

[Mrs_Pegasus]

Hi

Need some advice. Back in August I took my car to a local garage because the air con had stopped working on my car. Work was carried out by a 3rd party who specialised in ACs. I then went away a few days later on holiday and within days I noticed the AC had stopped working again. When I returned home, the invoice was waiting for me so I took it to the garage and spoke with the owner and explained the AC was no longer working. He said he would contact the AC man and would call me later in the week to arrange the car going back to him. I told him I would wait before paying the bill as I didnt think the work was satisfactory.

In short, he didnt call me back and unfortunately, I was taken ill at the start of September and I honestly never gave it another thought. Today I receive letter asking for me to pay the invoice!

Am I legally obliged to pay this?

[andy hughes]

Write back to the garage you took your car to, detailing the dates you took your car in, the time the A/C has not worked, and the fact that it still doesn't. Advise you'd like a date when he can repair the A/C, and you will be happy to pay when your car has run for a couple of months trouble free - offer him 25% up front as goodwill. Keep copies of your letters and invoices - plus any copies of anything he sends. Do NOT deail by phone or in person - writing only, then if it goes to court, you have all your evidence.

Your contract is with the garage - if the choose to contract out, that's their responsibility - deal only with them, and only in writing. Any problems, see a solicitor.

Good luck.

[Mrs_Pegasus]

Thank you Andy. I was thinking of sending a token payment.

Tough thing is I know the owner very well, we grew up together and went through school although never close friends. My family use him as well with no problems so its important it stays friendly.

Thanks.

[andy hughes]

You are most welcome.

I wouldn't worry to much about the friendship angle - if you are not close enough to get a discount, you are distant enough to expect full value for your money!