Texas Transmission Shop has my car-I don't want to fix it-do I have to pay anything?

[blair2012]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?Texas

My transmission quit.

A transmission shop was given the symptoms over the phone and said he might be able to repair it for around $350. That seemed ok to me and I authorized him on the phone to have it towed to his shop for a diagnosis and repair estimate.

He says his inspection indicated more extensive damage and that a complete overhaul would be required and the cost would be $2000+

The blue book on the car is $900 on a good day if it was in excellent condition, with a working a/c... not this week.

As far as I am concerned I can't see paying over twice what it's worth and the car can go directly to crusher.

Do I have to pay the transmission shop anything?

 

[ecmst12]

I expect you will need to pay the tow fee and for the time they spent to diagnose the problem.

 

[OHRoadwarrior]

You owe the towing and diagnostic/disassembly fees. It may be additional to have it reassembled also.

 

[blair2012]

1. He advertised free towing.
2. We did not agree on a price for diagnosis, or discuss any hourly rate.
3. I don't want what is now a piece of junk.
4. Don't need any reassembly.
5. He can keep the full tank of gas

He stopped calling me.

 

[HighwayMan]

He advertised free towing.

Did you read the fine print?

We did not agree on a price for diagnosis, or discuss any hourly rate.

You said you authorized the diagnosis.

He stopped calling me.

Maybe he gave up and has referred this matter to an attorney. Time will tell.