Consumer Protection Division - Common Complaints

• Auto Repairs: You are entitled to a written estimate for repair work with no additional charges unless you approve; a detailed invoice of work done and parts supplied; and the return of replaced parts if requested. If you have any problems, call the Bureau of Auto Repair: 1 800-952-5210.

• Door-to-Door Sales: You have three days to cancel contracts of $25 or more on door-to-door sales. The salesperson must tell you that you have a right to cancel and the contract must have a cancellation clause. If you cancel, the seller must refund your money within 10 days.

• Car Sales: A Buyers Guide must be placed on the window of every used vehicle sold by a dealer. This guide must tell you whether the car comes with a full warranty, a partial warranty, or “as is” with no warranty. If you have been deceived in buying a new or used car, call the Department of Motor Vehicles at (213) 744-7577.

• Credit: There are laws to protect you when you seek or use credit. The Fair Credit Reporting Act entitles you to find out why you have been denied credit and gives you the ability to correct errors in your credit file. The Fair Credit Billing Act gives you 60 days to send a written notice to the creditor if you find a billing error. The creditor must either correct your bill or explain why there is no error. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act protects women from being discriminated against when seeking credit.

Consumer questions or complaints?

The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Affairs offers consumer information and assistance in mediating consumer problems. Call (213) 974-1452.