The bill amends the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act of 1974 to enhance the regulation of motor vehicle repair facilities in Michigan. Key updates include the introduction of new definitions, such as "auxiliary facility," and requirements for certified mechanics to display their credentials prominently. The registration process for repair facilities is revised to require detailed business information, with registration taking effect upon approval and needing annual renewal. The bill also establishes penalties for non-compliance, including potential denial of applications for auxiliary facilities based on compliance history, and introduces a fee structure for late renewals and multiple facility registrations.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes consumer protection by mandating that repair facilities provide written estimates for repairs exceeding $50 and obtain customer consent for any charges beyond the estimate. It requires facilities to display consumer rights information and return replaced parts to customers, with exceptions for size or safety concerns. The legislation also addresses dispute resolution by requiring facilities to retain replaced parts if a customer disputes charges within two days. Overall, these amendments aim to improve oversight, compliance, and consumer awareness within the motor vehicle repair industry, with the changes set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: Substitute (S-1): 257.1302
Senate Introduced Bill: 257.1302
As Passed by the Senate: 257.1302