Maintaining your car with regular services and repairs will help keep it in good working order and protected by warranty, if this applies.

You need to authorise any repair work based on the original quote and any agreed additional work. When you drop your car off for repairs, ask the repairer to call you to discuss the extra work required and costs.

Servicing your car

Whether your car is new or used, it should come with an owner's manual including a recommended maintenance schedule and associated service checks, which you should follow to avoid breakdowns and potentially costly repairs.

An independent licensed mechanic instead of a dealership can service your car without voiding the manufacturer's warranty if the repairs and parts used meet the manufacturer's standards. The manufacturer’s standards are usually set out in the owner’s manual. A licensed mechanic has been declared fit and proper, and this means they are backed by consumer law guarantees. To check if a mechanic is licensed, visit the free licence and registration search page.

If you have an issue with a new car under warranty, consult the warranty document and contact the licensed dealer who sold you the car.  Learn more about car warranties. 

Licensed motor vehicle repairers tick

Look for the tick! Only licensed mechanics can display this sticker.

To find out if your mechanic is licensed in WA, do an online licence search.

Repairs

If you notice an issue with your car, check your rights under your car's warranty, as the manufacturer or dealer where you bought the car may need to arrange the repair.

If you don’t have a warranty and have an issue with your car, you may have rights under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) consumer guarantees, regardless of whether the car is new or used. For example, your mechanic should do any repairs with due care and skill.

It is best to get more than one quote from reputable mechanics before going ahead with any repairs. Quotes should outline the work to be done and cost. A repairer may need to look at your car to give a quote, but check if there is a cost to do this.

Avoid trying to diagnose the problem yourself. If you ask for a specific repair and it does not fix the problem, the repairer won’t be liable.

Towing your car for repair work

If you need to get your car towed for repairs see our page towing after an accident or Transport WA’s information about tow truck consumer advice and temporary movement permit if the car is unlicensed.

Paying for repairs

Before paying, ask for an itemised list of all completed work. Keep the list and receipt as they may assist you with any future warranty or repair disputes, and you may need to share this information with future buyers if you sell your car.

Insurance

Depending on your level of cover, if you have car insurance (recommended), your insurer may cover or contribute to the cost of repairs. Remember if you find yourself in dispute with your insurer, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) may be able to help.

Resolving disputes

If you are not happy with a repair or maintenance service, talk to the repairer first. If you are not happy with their response, contact the Consumer Protection Contact Centre on 1300 30 40 54 or by email for further assistance.

If you’re unable to resolve the dispute with the repairer, you can lodge a complaint with Consumer Protection.

Motor vehicle repairer consumer tips

 

Download the flyer and display it at your office, community centre or notice board.