Michigan House Bill HB5149

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/28/25
• Refer: 10/28/25

Caption

Occupations: vehicles, dealers, and repair facilities; hidden storage fees by a motor vehicle repair facility; prohibit. Amends secs. 7e & 32 of 1974 PA 300 (MCL 257.1307e & 257.1332).

Impact

If enacted, HB 5149 will significantly impact the operations of motor vehicle repair facilities in Michigan by enforcing stricter guidelines around the provision of estimates and charges to customers. Facilities will no longer be able to charge beyond the initial estimate without prior consent from the customer, which may influence how they conduct their pricing and service practices. Such changes could also lead to a shift in consumer trust, as customers may feel more secure that they won't face unexpected charges. The intention is to create a more customer-friendly environment in the auto repair industry.

Summary

House Bill 5149 amends the Michigan Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act, specifically sections 7e and 32. The bill aims to enhance consumer protection by ensuring that motor vehicle repair facilities provide clear and comprehensive written estimates before commencing any repair work. This includes detailing applicable fees, storage charges, and labor costs, thus promoting transparency in transactions between consumers and repair facilities. It seeks to prevent overcharging and requires consent from customers before any additional charges can be added, thereby safeguarding consumer rights.

Contention

There might be contention surrounding the enforcement of compliance with these additional requirements. Some repair facilities may argue that the need for strict written estimates could slow down their operations or lead to increased administrative burdens. Additionally, there is also the potential for disputes to arise regarding what constitutes a 'reasonable cost' for repairs if the actual costs exceed estimates and whether facilities can effectively communicate these changes to their customers. Overall, while the bill aims to protect consumers, it may also challenge some businesses in the auto repair sector.