Loophole Allows Some Auto Repair Shop Owners to Avoid Penalties After Defrauding Customers

When drivers are cheated by unscrupulous auto repair shops, the state Bureau of Automotive Repair is responsible for protecting consumers and helping drivers recoup their money. Earlier this year, the NBC Bay Area Investigative Unit revealed the bureau has limited power to actually enforce consumer protection laws, and now the Investigative Unit is exposing yet another loophole that allows repair shop owners, previously sanctioned for taking advantage of customers, to stay in business and potentially avoid paying fines and penalties. Bigad Shaban reports in a video that first aired on Sept. 27, 2016.