Can Mechanics Legally Sell You the Parts They Replaced on Your Vehicle?

When you take your vehicle to an auto shop for repairs, you might wonder if those mechanics have the right to sell the parts they replaced. This article explores the legalities surrounding this practice, with a particular focus on core charges and the rights of consumers in the United States, specifically highlighting the state of Michigan.

Understanding Core Charges

Some automotive parts, such as alternators, starters, and water pumps, can be rebuilt. As a result, manufacturers often require customers to return these parts for recycling or rebuilding purposes. For this reason, parts stores may charge a core charge. If you want to keep the replaced part, you must pay the core charge to avoid the shop bearing the costs of the core charge themselves.

For example, if an alternator is replaced in your vehicle, the shop may charge a core charge for the old unit. You need to bear this cost if you want to keep the part. Otherwise, the shop will reclaim the core charge.

Legal Rights and Responsibilities in Michigan

Michigan law provides that, in most cases, you have the right to receive the replaced parts. Specifically, you are entitled to the return of parts that were removed from your vehicle, except for extremely large, heavy parts, or those specified in an exchange agreement (core).

Many parts that you purchase from a mechanic have a core charge attached to them. If you want to keep these parts, you must pay the core charge, which is factored into the retail price. The reasoning behind this is practical: leaking brake calipers or failed transmissions are not functional parts and would have no use to you.

The Mechanics' Right to Sell Old Parts

Once you leave a replaced part with the shop, it becomes the property of the shop owner. They can then do with it as they please, including selling it as scrap metal. There is no law requiring that replaced parts be disposed of in a particular manner.

In some situations, it might be illegal for a mechanic to sell old parts. For instance, if a mechanic intentionally scammed you into replacing parts that you didn't need, or deliberately misled you to sell their old parts, this would generally be considered illegal, regardless of what happens to the old part.

Protecting Your Rights

To protect your rights, it's essential to communicate openly with the mechanic. Always ask whether you will receive the replaced parts or if there is a core charge. If you do not ask, the mechanic might sell the part as scrap or keep it for themselves.

In conclusion, mechanics have the legal right to sell replaced parts, provided they account for core charges and do not attempt to defraud customers. Always be aware of your rights and act accordingly to ensure you are treated fairly during your vehicle repairs.