Car garages: nearly 40% of inspected establishments showed irregularities

Inspections carried out by the Directorate General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) in the automotive maintenance sector have revealed persistent shortcomings in consumer information. According to the results of a national campaign published on June 4, nearly 40% of the garages, auto centers, and dealerships inspected had irregularities that warranted corrective measures or sanctions.

In total, more than 1,600 establishments were inspected across France. Investigators noted, among other things, inadequate price displays, incomplete invoices, and insufficient information regarding certain services. These practices make it difficult for motorists to compare offers and can lead to unexpected expenses.

A profession under surveillance

The DGCCRF (French Directorate General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control) emphasizes that breaches of price transparency remain the most frequent offenses. Inspections have also uncovered certain business practices likely to mislead consumers, particularly when the services billed do not clearly correspond to the work performed or presented when the vehicle was taken in.

This situation is also reflected in the reports recorded by the authorities. In 2025, more than 10,000 complaints concerning car maintenance and repair were filed on the SignalConso platform. The complaints mainly concern quotes, labor costs, or certain additional charges that were not sufficiently detailed for customers.

Important issues for consumers

The sanctions imposed demonstrate the authorities' vigilance. During previous inspection campaigns, several hundred warnings, administrative injunctions, and official reports were issued against establishments failing to comply with their regulatory obligations. The observed violations can have significant financial consequences for the professionals involved.

In a context marked by rising vehicle operating costs, transparency in garages is more crucial than ever. Authorities recommend that motorists always request a detailed estimate before any work is carried out and keep all documents provided by the garage. For industry players, compliance with regulations is now essential to maintaining customer trust and strengthening their credibility in an increasingly competitive market.