Hi,
So I got into an accident about 8 months ago and the front of my car was damaged pretty badly. My landlord saw the accident and recommended his mechanic which I took into consideration. Unfortunately, I did not have collision on my insurance at the time (I know, really stupid and I’ve learned from that mistake). My car was sitting outside my apartment at the time while I was calling different body shops to get quotes. I also called the guy my landlord recommended just to get a quote and specifically made it clear to him that I was just asking for a quote. Then the next day, unbeknownst to me, my landlords mechanic TOWED MY CAR without asking for my consent. I was really upset about that but he had also promised me the lowest quote (3k) out of everyone I called so regretfully, I went forth with it. Throughout the last few months, he asked for some more money a few times for new problems he kept “finding”. Finally, about 5 months ago, he told me that he’d be able to fix everything except that the transmission was damaged (leaking oil) and that it would cost a lot to fix. I looked it up and yes it does truly cost a lot to fix. He said he had been waiting to find a decent used transmission and that’s why it was taking so long. Eventually I was getting tired of this so my friend drove me down to see him and he said he found a transmission. He said it would cost 3k and the guy wanted 2k in advance. I was pretty desperate at this point and trusted he was finally getting it done so I sent him the money. But per usual, 2 weeks passed with no update. When he finally picked up my call again, he said the transmission “wasn’t the right one” and that he wasn’t able to find another replacement. So I said just fix the parts you already have and I’ll come tow the car but refund me my 2k. He said he would but I still haven’t received anything from him. It’s awkward with my landlord too because the last time I asked him to help me out here, he just repeated what the mechanic told me. Now I’m at a point where I’m not really sure how I can proceed. I’m really really tired of this situation and just want my car fixed but I also don’t know how to leave this situation without losing the money I’ve already spent (like 6k total). I’m honestly considering talking to police or lawyers at this point but don’t want to risk any problems with my landlord. Does anyone have any tips for me? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!
TLDR: Landlord recommended me a mechanic to fix my car after accident. It’s been 8 months and he has barely fixed anything. He also has not refunded me 2k for the transmission he didn’t end up having. Any advice on how to handle this situation?