The Repair Estimate
Minn. Stat. 325F.58 — a written estimate on request, and 110 percent at most
In Minnesota, on a customer's request and before repairs begin, a shop provides a written estimate including all the parts, materials and labor that standard practice in the trade would include. A shop may charge for making the estimate only if it first says so, explains the basis, and gets authorization.
110 percent of the estimate. A shop that gives a written estimate may not charge more than 110 percent of it. If additional work proves necessary and the shop did not unreasonably fail to disclose that possibility, it may charge more only after promptly giving a revised written estimate and getting authorization to continue.
The car comes back on the authorized amount. On reasonable demand, a shop returns the repaired vehicle when the customer pays the bill except the part representing unauthorized repairs or estimates, estimate charges above what was disclosed, or repair charges above 110 percent of what was authorized.
- On request before repairs begin, replaced parts are returned, and warranty or exchange parts may be examined for five business days after completion.
- The shop keeps the estimates and invoice for at least one year, and the customer may have a copy for the reasonable cost of reproduction.
- A posted sign tells customers the shop must provide a written estimate on request for repairs costing more than $100, and that an oral estimate is not subject to the limits.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionAn oral estimate holds the shop to its number | What the law actually doesThe limits apply to a written estimate, which the customer requests |
| The assumptionThe shop can keep the car until every dollar is paid | What the law actually doesIt returns the car when the customer pays all but the unauthorized or excess amounts |
Warranty disputes, insurance claims and a shop's lien for unpaid repairs are not all on this page. Whether a particular bill was lawful is a question for a licensed Minnesota attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- Minn. Stat. 325F.58 — Repair estimates
- Minn. Stat. 325F.61 — Return of property
- Minn. Stat. 325F.62 — Required shop practices
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Minnesota attorney.