Q: In California are repossession towing companies allowed to withhold pricing.
They had previously told me the amount I needed to get my car back (personal property fee, daily storage fee and other fees) now thay are stating that I need to wait untill after the financial company releases the car to provide cost information.
A:
In California, repossession towing companies are required by law to disclose pricing information to their customers. According to the California Business and Professions Code, businesses engaged in towing or transporting vehicles must provide a written estimate of charges to the vehicle owner or operator prior to towing or transporting the vehicle.
Furthermore, the California Vehicle Code requires tow companies to provide a written notice to the registered owner of the vehicle within 48 hours of towing the vehicle. This notice must include an itemized list of all fees and charges associated with the towing and storage of the vehicle.
Therefore, it is not permissible for a repossession towing company in California to withhold pricing information from their customers. If you were previously given a quote for the amount required to retrieve your vehicle and the company is now refusing to provide pricing information until after the financial company releases the car, you have the right to request a written estimate of all charges.
If the towing company continues to withhold pricing information or provides false or misleading information, you may file a complaint with the California Department of Consumer Affairs or consult with a consumer protection attorney. Remember that as a consumer, you have rights and protections under the law and should not hesitate to assert them when necessary.
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