I took Fladeboe VW Irvine to small claims court because I paid for services (to fix the air conditioning unit, radio, horn, dashboard panel lights) that were never done and for the obvious damage (to front headlight, Homelink system, forgetting to reattach a/c hoses in engine compartment) they caused to my vehicle while in their service department. I presented original receipts, damage cost estimates from other VW dealerships, and chronological records as solid evidence. I also had photographs and statements from the Bureau of Automotive Repair investigators (who found a screwdriver left in my engine compartment and with the handle melted into the engine) and the Department of Consumer Affairs.
Fladeboe VW did not present any proof to back their claim of fixing my vehicle. They also lied to the judge stating they called my cell phone several times in attempt at returning my phone calls. I had detailed phone records showing my calls but no incoming calls from Fladeboe VW for 6 months. Fladeboe VW was clearly in violation of:
RCW 46.71: Retaining payment from a customer for parts not delivered or installed, or a repair procedure not performed.
California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 33: All invoices for service and repair work performed, and parts supplied, as provided for in Sect 9884.8 of the Business and Professions Code, shall comply with the following: The invoice shall separately list, describe and identify (2) (a) (b): all service and repair work performed and each part supplied.
Fladeboe VW also testified that they had installed an a/c compressor unit which I did not authorize, they did not tell me they were installing this unit until the BBB inquired about their practices months later, and they failed to provide this information on the final estimate. It is unknown if that part was actually installed because the a/c unit is still not working.
I have researched Fladeboe VW's business records and they have an F rating with the Better Business Bureau for the exact same reasons why I took them to small claims court. Even with evidence such as this, the judge sent his notification through the mail stating judgment is for Fladeboe Irvine VW. No reason. I requested an explanation but the court is not obligated to give a reason.
So far, I've spent over $4000 in attempted repairs by Fladeboe VW and court fees. I will not rest until justice is served.
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