Manitoba government creates new rules for vehicle repair shops

The Manitoba government has created new rules for vehicle repair work, in a move it says will strengthen consumer protection.

The rules, effective July 1, are meant to protect Manitobans from unauthorized repairs, repairs that cost more than the estimate, the use of refurbished parts without the consumer’s knowledge, and repairs that don’t last.

Under the new rules, repair shops must:

• offer written estimates to consumers for any repair over $100 and ensure final charges for the repair work are within 10% of the estimate;
• provide a written invoice itemizing costs for parts, labour and other charges, which includes information about warranty terms and consumer rights;
• obtain authorization for repairs before they are made and record this information;
• provide warranties for all parts and associated labour, and disclose the terms of the warranties;
• offer consumers their old parts and provide them, if requested; and
• display a sign with specific information about rights and protections for consumers, as well as obligations of repairers.

Manitoba’s Consumer Protection Office will oversee compliance and enforcement, which will include the authority to issue administrative penalties.

The government said it worked with industry, stakeholders and consumer groups, along with other provinces that have car repair legislation, to develop the new regulations. The new rules also have the support of CAA Manitoba.