A repair facility used after-market parts in the repair of a customer's automobile, and did not notify the customer of this. Which statement is true?

A repair facility used after-market parts in the repair of a customer's automobile, and did not notify the customer of this. Which statement is true?

• A. The customer has engaged in an unfair trade practice
• B. The repair facility has engaged in an unfair trade practice
• C. The insurer is responsible for the parts choice
• D. No unfair trade practice occurred

Answer: (B)

Disclosing what parts will be used is part of fair dealing in auto repairs. If a repair facility uses aftermarket parts and does not inform the customer, that concealment or misrepresentation about a material detail of the service is considered an unfair trade practice. The insured has a right to know whether OEM or aftermarket parts are being used, since this affects quality, warranties, and cost. The problem lies with the repair facility’s failure to disclose, not with the insurer, so the repair facility has engaged in an unfair trade practice.

Disclosing what parts will be used is part of fair dealing in auto repairs. If a repair facility uses aftermarket parts and does not inform the customer, that concealment or misrepresentation about a material detail of the service is considered an unfair trade practice. The insured has a right to know whether OEM or aftermarket parts are being used, since this affects quality, warranties, and cost. The problem lies with the repair facility’s failure to disclose, not with the insurer, so the repair facility has engaged in an unfair trade practice.