Repair-shop disputes generally come down to the same things: the written estimate, what was actually authorized, and the final invoice. Organize those facts and get a free letter outline; the full demand letter is in the $39 Case Pack.
| Estimate required | above_threshold |
|---|---|
| Threshold | $50 |
| Authorization to exceed estimate | written_or_oral |
| Cap on overage | 10% |
| Citation | MCL 257.1301 through 257.1340 (Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act, Act 300 of 1974) |
Source: MCL 257.1301 through 257.1340 (Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act, Act 300 of 1974)
Michigan's Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act requires a written, itemized estimate before work begins. The requirement does not apply if the total cost is under $50 (this dollar threshold was $20 in the 2006-2011 codified text and is $50 in the current 2024-2025 text - a real legislative amendment over time, not a source conflict). A facility may not charge beyond the estimate, or beyond a customer-specified waiver limit, without the customer's knowing written or oral consent - except that if no waiver was signed, the facility does NOT need to seek separate consent for an overage of 10% or $10, whichever is LESS. If the customer declines additional work once informed of an overage, they are only liable for reasonable costs to return the vehicle to its original condition. Upon return of the vehicle, the facility must give the customer a detailed written statement covering requested repairs, authorized repairs, estimated versus actual costs, and parts replaced, signed by a facility representative. A facility that violates the Act's requirements can be barred from collecting payment or asserting a mechanic's lien for that work, and a prevailing consumer can recover statutory damages and attorney fees.
Wherewithal is an organizational tool only. Not legal advice. Consider consulting a licensed attorney.