Consumer Law, Warranties Mechanic nightmare

[karinangela]

Hello,
I put my car in the shop at american engine installations in tucson, az. They have had my car for almost a month. They added $500. to the bill for additional work, after the engine was already removed and if we didnt agree they would not honor the contract. They never found the parts, now they are saying they are closing down the stores in arizona and we have to pick it up immediately. My contract sais I have 30 days after completion date before they can put a lien. The havent found the part and dont plan to honor the warranty. I called to discuss it, told him my contract does not allow them to claim my vehicle. He cussed me out said he didnt care about my f%*#n contract because they are closing all their shops and hung up on me. Left my husband a message that they are disasembling my jeep today!!! I dont know what to do!!! PLEASE HELP ME QUICK!!!
Karin

 

[Michael Wechsler]

Did you call the police to see what they might do? If they are closing their shops they cannot transport your vehicle elsewhere and simply keep it. I may be missing something here but you may want to report a theft since they refuse to return the vehicle without justification. It's their right to put a lien on your car but no right to take your vehicle with them. That's theft. I'm not sure if it could be considered larceny since you voluntarily surrendered to them your vehicle but this legal distinction isn't going to be of use with the police department. I'd simply try the police first. If they ever try to put a lien on your vehicle and sue, you've got a breach of contract remedy which is rather clear. Good luck.