New Yorkers can now file online complaints about New York State Department of Motor Vehicles-regulated businesses, such as repair shops, auto dealers and inspection stations. Over 470 customers benefited from actions taken by the DMV against repair shops and auto dealers last year, according to the state DMV, which amounted to refunds or vehicle repairs valued at almost $1.5 million.
The DMV also sent updated repair shop signage and a copy of relevant state regulations to repair shops statewide as part of a recently-launched consumer awareness campaign.
“DMV is focused on improving customer experience in every facet of our business and providing an online submission form gives consumers an easier, more modern approach to report potentially serious violations against DMV-regulated businesses,” DMV commissioner Mark J. F. Schroeder said.
Here’s what to know.
How to file a complaint against DMV-regulated businesses
2014 GM ignition switch recall: Auto Technician Billy Morgan works on installing a new ignition switch during a recall repair on a Chevrolet HHR vehicle at Fitzgerald Auto Mall on June 11, 2014 in Frederick, Maryland.Faulty ignition switches that could shut off engines left at least 124 people dead and 275 injured in small cars such as the Chevrolet Cobalt and Saturn Ion that were made by the old GM. The defective ignition switches could cause vehicles to stall, and GM recalled more than 2.7 million vehicles in 2014. The defect has cost GM more than $2 billion in fines and settlements, a figure that does not include the cost of actually fixing 2.6 million recalled vehicles.
Previously, those looking to file a complaint would have to submit a complaint form by email, mail or fax after accessing the form either on the agency’s website, at a local DMV office or by contacting the Vehicle Safety Complaint Unit. Now, you also have the option to submit an online complaint.
You’ll receive a confirmation email to let you know your complaint was received once completed and also have the option to print out a copy of your complaint.
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How you should handle concerns about work done to your vehicle
If you have a complaint about your vehicle, the DMV recommends the following:
Let the repair shop or dealership management know of your complaint immediately.
Keep a record of all of your contacts with the repair shop or dealership about your vehicle along with any repairs or adjustments made.
Keep copies of all of the work orders and invoices as proof of attempts to resolve the problem.
If your complaint concerns a repair, file a formal complaint with the DMV within 90 days or 3,000 miles of the repair — whichever comes first.
Emily Barnes on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network’s New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: NY DMV launches online complaint tool for auto issues