South Carolina Auto Repair Law

Educational summary only – not legal advice.

What this means for consumers

·       You have the right to a written repair estimate if the job is likely to exceed $50, unless you waive it in writing.

·       A repair shop cannot perform repairs without your authorization (oral or written).

·       A shop cannot exceed the estimate by more than $200 without your approval.

·       You are entitled to know what type of parts are being used (OEM, aftermarket, or used).

·       You must be offered the return of replaced parts, unless warranty/core rules apply.

·       Shops must provide a detailed final invoice.

·       If unauthorized work is performed, a shop cannot hold your vehicle hostage for payment.

·       Claims under the repair statute must generally be brought within one year.

What this means for repair shops

·       Written estimates are required when requested for repairs over $50.

·       Estimates must clearly break out labor, parts, diagnostics, and reassembly costs.

·       You must obtain authorization before repairs and carefully document any oral approvals.

·       Do not exceed estimates by more than $200 without customer consent.

·       Clearly disclose part types and offer to return replaced parts.

·       Maintain repair records for at least one year.

·       Failure to comply can result in unenforceable charges, complaints, and civil liability.

Key statutory mechanics (South Carolina Code Title 56, Chapter 33)

·       Estimate threshold: $50

·       Over-estimate cap: $200 without further approval

·       Authorization: Oral or written required

·       Estimate waiver: Must be in writing

·       Parts return: Must be offered with estimate

·       Record retention: 1 year

·       Enforcement: Civil action; unfair trade practice claims may apply

What the law does not specify

·       Storage fees after repairs are completed

·       Automatic statutory penalties or attorney’s fees

·       Statewide repair shop licensing requirements

Where the statute is silent, general South Carolina consumer protection law applies.

This document is intended as a practical, plain-English decoding of South Carolina auto repair law for consumers and repair facilities.