Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/561260
ANALYZE THIS 42 G O I N G P L A C E S | F A L L 2 0 1 5 istock Breaking It Down What's behind the numbers and language on your vehicle repair estimate? by Jillian Fragale I f you are like most people, the first thing you look for when given a vehicle repair estimate is the bottom line: the total estimated price. While cost is important, so is understanding the details included in the estimate. To help navigate the process, ask for a copy of the estimate, and take your time reviewing it with your technician. If there is something that is not clearly stated, ask for more detail. "Reviewing the estimate is likely the consumer's only opportunity to ask questions or tell the shop they need time to think about it," says Ken Francis, Approved Auto Repair Service supervisor for CAA Manitoba. In Manitoba, the estimate is also a form of consumer pro- tection as provincial law states the garage must offer you a written estimate for repairs over $100, and final costs must stay within 10 per cent. Can't be there in person? Ask the shop to email the estimate over to you. Once you have all of your questions answered, you may request a revised estimate with the added detail. ere is no standard expiration for vehicle estimates, and most facilities will attempt to hold pricing for you as long as possible. Keep in mind, however, that the cost of parts fluctuates daily based on availability in the local market. More protection! In the unlikely event of a dispute with an AARS garage, CAA will act as arbitrator between you and the garage. www.caamanitoba. com/aars Continued on page 44 •