Washington State Auto Repair Law

Educational summary only – not legal advice.

This document explains Washington State’s Automotive Repair Act (RCW 46.71) in plain English. It is designed so that a repair shop owner or a consumer can understand every legally relevant rule on a single page, without needing to read statutes.

Core Legal Framework

Washington regulates automotive repair through RCW 46.71, enforced through civil remedies, lien limitations, and general consumer protection law.

Statutory Mechanics (Decoded)

1. Written Estimate & Dollar Thresholds

·       A written repair estimate is required for any repair over $100, before parts or labor are supplied.

·       The customer may waive the written estimate requirement in writing, or authorize repairs without face‑to‑face contact.

If the law is silent: – State law does not specify inflation adjustments or tiered thresholds; general consumer protection statutes apply.

2. Authorization Requirements

Before performing work, a repair shop must have one of the following: – A written estimate signed by the customer; OR – A written waiver of the estimate; OR – Written or oral authorization with a maximum price limit.

If authorization is oral, the shop must document: – Date and time of authorization – Person granting authorization – Authorized dollar amount

3. Over‑Estimate Rules (110% Rule)

·       A shop may not charge more than 110% of the written estimate (before tax) without additional customer approval.

·       If costs will exceed 110%, the shop must obtain prior oral or written approval.

Legal consequence: – Without approval, charges are capped at 110%.

4. Disclosure Timing

·       Estimates or authorization must occur before work begins.

·       If the vehicle is dropped off without face‑to‑face contact, authorization must still occur before repairs.

5. Parts Return & Inspection Rules

·       Customers are entitled to inspect or receive replaced parts if requested at the time of authorization.

·       If parts must be returned to a manufacturer, remanufacturer, or recycler, the shop must offer inspection, not physical return.

If the law is silent: – State law does not specify automatic return of parts without request; general consumer protection statutes apply.

6. Invoices & Documentation

After repairs, shops must provide a written invoice showing: – Repairs performed – Parts supplied – Labor charges – Total price

7. Record Retention

·       Repair facilities must retain estimates, authorizations, and invoices for at least one year.

8. Required Consumer Notice

·       Shops must post a Customer Rights Notice in a conspicuous location explaining:

o   Right to estimates

o   Authorization requirements

o   Parts return rights

9. Enforcement & Penalties

Violations of RCW 46.71 can result in: – Loss of right to collect unauthorized charges – Inability to assert a mechanic’s or possessory lien – Exposure to claims under Washington’s Consumer Protection Act

Unlawful practices include: – Charging for unauthorized work – Charging for parts not installed – False or misleading estimates – Refusal to provide copies of signed documents

What This Means for Consumers

·       You generally have the right to a written estimate for repairs over $100.

·       You cannot be billed more than 110% of the estimate unless you approve it first.

·       You may inspect or receive replaced parts if you ask up front.

·       If a shop violates the law, you can dispute charges and block improper liens.

What This Means for Repair Shops

·       Always provide a written estimate or obtain a valid waiver before work begins.

·       Never exceed an estimate by more than 10% without documented customer approval.

·       Document oral authorizations carefully.

·       Post required signage and retain records for at least one year.

·       Non‑compliance can void charges, eliminate lien rights, and trigger consumer protection liability.

Practical Rule of Thumb

If it’s not authorized, documented, and within 110% of the estimate — you can’t charge for it.

This document is an educational summary, not legal advice. It reflects Washington law as codified in RCW 46.71.