Calif. Bureau of Automotive Repair Accuses Shop of Fraud

June 4, 2018

An accusation of fraud against a body shop in Merced, Calif., has been filed by the chief of the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). 

June 4, 2018—After an investigation into consumers' vehicles repaired by the body shop, the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has filed an accusation of fraud against a body shop in Merced, Calif.

BAR investigated FH & Sons Auto Body & Paint's business practices, and found a pattern of false and misleading statements wherein the auto body shop charged for parts that were not provided or services that were never performed.

The accusation will be prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General.

BAR also filed an accusation against California Customs & Collision Repair, an automotive collision repair dealer located in Roseville, Calif. The accusation alleges numerous violations of the Automotive Repair Act, including acts defrauding consumers of thousands of dollars.

The investigation into nine consumer complaints revealed a pattern of false and misleading statements, fraud and other violations.The accusation also alleges the auto body shop failed to provide adequate care of consumers’ vehicles, resulting in vehicles damaged by the elements from being left outside unprotected. One consumer’s vehicle was impounded after having been illegally parked on a public street.

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