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How long can a mechanic legally keep your car without fixing it?
I had my 03 minivan in a garage for over 14 months and they've yet to fix it; I was given no written estimate and troubleshooting has been unending.
I'm going to try and pick it up or have it towed elsewhere and I don't want to be in the wrong by wanting to simply get the vehicle off of his lot.
Should I pay if he tries to charge for hours put into troubleshooting, or should I get a lawyer if he holds the vehicle hostage until I pay?
More details:
- I sent the van there to get the timing belt replaced after replacing it myself resulted in a failed OEM belt and likely a bad tensioner.
- According to the mechanic, after replacing the belt, cylinder misfiring was found during engine testing; they asked me if it ran fine before breaking down - I said yes, it ran fine.
- The mechanic ruled out timing or damage from the timing belt failure; for some reason, the cylinders on one side aren't firing in sequence.
- Every time I inquire, they've got something they'd like to try next; I call back every 2-3 weeks and this is the ongoing story each time I call.
- There has never been a mention of storage fees or any costs up front.
At this point, I will pay for the timing belt repair but no more. I intend to stress that in the interests of all parties, he should just let me take the vehicle and go.
Would you consider this reasonable, or not? Why?
