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New rules to protect Manitobans against unfair car-repair bills

The province is introducing new rules to protect vehicle owners against unfair repair bills.

Premier Greg Selinger and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau made the announcement this morning at a car repair shop on Marion Street.

The new protections would require:

  • that consumers be given an estimate for repairs,
  • the final cost to be within a prescribed range of the estimate,
  • repair work be authorized by the consumer,
  • parts be kept separate and returned to the consumer in certain circumstances,
  • clear disclosure and information for consumers through signs in the shop as well as the provision of invoices, and
  •  a warranty on new or reconditioned parts and labour.

Rondeau said the increased sophistication of vehicles can make it difficult for consumers to understand what is involved with repairs, making them feel vulnerable.

"The complexities of today’s vehicles can create honest misunderstandings between repairers and consumers, but can also put consumers in a position where they do not receive all the information they need to make informed choices," he said.

The rules new rules will not apply to repairs completed as part of a claim through Manitoba Public Insurance since MPI has its own procedures and protective measures, the province said.

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