As our California Lemon Law is based on repair orders, here are some very important consumer tips on how to get a proper repair order written. Here is the list of things you as a consumer must do when you go into the dealership for warranty repairs:
- When you give the Service Advisor your complaint, you make sure that he is writing it exactly as you have dictated it. You will be able to review the repair order before signing it, and this you must do.
- IF a caution light or message appears, pull over safely and get a video (including odometer) and keep that video, as we may need it for your case. It’s your proof that the issue occurred. Make a file on your phone or computer to store these videos. Often warning lights will go on, and then shut off. Often they are not on when the car is presented for repairs. If the warning is not on at time of repair order write-up, email or text the video to your Service Advisor. NEVER erase your videos.
- Never leave purchase/lease or previous repair documents in your car – ever. Keep them at home in a safe place.
- If you state a complaint, and they simply write “peform recall” or “recall”, do NOT sign the repair order. Have them re-write it with your customer complaint. They can add about recall after your stated customer complaint, not instead of.
- Once you have reviewed the completed repair order for accuracy, and if all is OK, then you sign it, and you get a copy of it.
- One repairs have been completed, make sure you get a completed copy, which is called the repair order invoice.. Lemon Law attorneys use these invoices to pursue your California Lemon Law case/claim on your behalf.